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The Arcanaeum #2
Arcanist
Death. Undeath. Life. The boundaries are beginning to blur.
For five hundred years I believed everyone involved in my murder, was dead.
I was wrong.
As the Librarian, I prided myself on remaining impartial in a world of quibbling arcanists, and watched wistfully as everyone around me got on with the business of living. I contented myself with living through my books, wishing I could remember what it felt like to be touched. To feel.
Then they came.
Six heirs who wouldn’t stay away. They dragged me from my solitude and brought joy back to the Arcanaeum.
I should’ve known that would come at a cost…
For five hundred years I believed everyone involved in my murder, was dead.
I was wrong.
As the Librarian, I prided myself on remaining impartial in a world of quibbling arcanists, and watched wistfully as everyone around me got on with the business of living. I contented myself with living through my books, wishing I could remember what it felt like to be touched. To feel.
Then they came.
Six heirs who wouldn’t stay away. They dragged me from my solitude and brought joy back to the Arcanaeum.
I should’ve known that would come at a cost…
428 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2025
8 people are currently reading
1040 people want to read
About the author
Marie Mistry
22 books920 followersMarie Mistry is a reality challenged reverse harem romance author whose books are full of pirates, magic, and spicy adventures. When she's not writing, you can usually find her curled up with a game or a book and a large cup of tea. She lives in a wonky cottage in Kent with her other half and a super sweet shepherd named Meg.
She'd love for you to join her Facebook reader group: Mistry’s Inc where she hangs out daily: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mistr...
Or check out her website: https://www.mariemistry.com
She'd love for you to join her Facebook reader group: Mistry’s Inc where she hangs out daily: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mistr...
Or check out her website: https://www.mariemistry.com
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August 24, 2025The release date is now final - mark your calendars for 25th November 2025! Arcanist will be book 2 of 3 in the Arcanaeum series. Triggers are available on my website. For updates, follow me!
November 30, 2025
Dang, from book one being one of my favorite reads of the year to DNFing book 2 that was disappointing……🙁
⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️
DNF at 75%
Book one had everything I like in a romantasy! slow burn, tension, interesting characters, world building, mystery, plot, emotional depth, character development, yearning, and a sprinkle of spice! Unfortunately, in this book we lost all of that….the main problem for me was we got no detail in any aspect of this book.
* The plot was almost nonexistent. It was happening in the background with such little detail that it was hard for you to understand what was really going on.
* The romance didn’t feel romantic with any of the characters. Very little tension or yearning just immediately jumped into spice!
* The spice through a curveball that I didn’t see coming with Sub/Dom vibes. This seemed to be the main plot in the book. But again little detail and rushed interactions. If you’re gonna do this type of spice it has to be done with methodical detail and cannot be rushed in my opinion.
* The characters had very little development or depth, and almost seemed a little YA.
All around it just fell flat and seemed boring due to the lack of depth and detail in the plot/storyline. But this does seem to be an unpopular opinion, so as always please don’t let my thoughts keep you from giving it a try for yourself! ♥️
⭐️⭐️.25
🌶️🌶️🌶️
DNF at 75%
Book one had everything I like in a romantasy! slow burn, tension, interesting characters, world building, mystery, plot, emotional depth, character development, yearning, and a sprinkle of spice! Unfortunately, in this book we lost all of that….the main problem for me was we got no detail in any aspect of this book.
* The plot was almost nonexistent. It was happening in the background with such little detail that it was hard for you to understand what was really going on.
* The romance didn’t feel romantic with any of the characters. Very little tension or yearning just immediately jumped into spice!
* The spice through a curveball that I didn’t see coming with Sub/Dom vibes. This seemed to be the main plot in the book. But again little detail and rushed interactions. If you’re gonna do this type of spice it has to be done with methodical detail and cannot be rushed in my opinion.
* The characters had very little development or depth, and almost seemed a little YA.
All around it just fell flat and seemed boring due to the lack of depth and detail in the plot/storyline. But this does seem to be an unpopular opinion, so as always please don’t let my thoughts keep you from giving it a try for yourself! ♥️
November 24, 2025
once again, I AM UNWELL
full RTC after i’m done crying 😭
𝘶𝘱𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸:
“𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞. 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐮𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬.”
Marie Mistry does it again with 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒕, the second book in 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒆𝒖𝒎 series. this book starts out right where we left off in book one, and boy does this book take you on a ride of emotions. you get further development of Kyrith’s relationships with the different heirs. but while some relationships are developing and heating up, others are hitting road blocks that make you wonder how they’ll ever possibly work out.
and while Kyrith and the heirs figure out their relationships, they must figure out how to keep Kyrith and the Arcanaeum safe. but can they really when distrust runs deep within them all?
“𝐈’𝐦 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐰𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐰𝐞’𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐠𝐞.”
the spice definitely picks up in this book and i liked how Kyrith had a different relationship and dynamic with each guy, that still also worked in a MFM group scene.
Lambert still holds my heart as #1 of all the heirs, tho.
i love this series so much and if you haven’t started already, you really should.
i’m not sure if i should be thanking or cursing Marie Mistry for an e-ARC of 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒕 bc of that cliffhanger 😭 but i cannot wait until the next book to see how everything works out.
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
MFMMMMM, 1st person multi-POV
grumpy ghost librarian, meddling sentient library, magic, relationship contracts, M/F and MFM scenes, “good boy”, “aye mistress”, switch fmc, dom/sub relationships with safe words, cock cage, cliffhanger, book 2 of 3
full RTC after i’m done crying 😭
𝘶𝘱𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸:
“𝐓𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐬 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞. 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐲 𝐨𝐟 𝐮𝐬 𝐬𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐟𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐮𝐧𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬.”
Marie Mistry does it again with 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒕, the second book in 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒂𝒆𝒖𝒎 series. this book starts out right where we left off in book one, and boy does this book take you on a ride of emotions. you get further development of Kyrith’s relationships with the different heirs. but while some relationships are developing and heating up, others are hitting road blocks that make you wonder how they’ll ever possibly work out.
and while Kyrith and the heirs figure out their relationships, they must figure out how to keep Kyrith and the Arcanaeum safe. but can they really when distrust runs deep within them all?
“𝐈’𝐦 𝐠𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐨𝐜𝐤 𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐥 𝐰𝐞 𝐛𝐨𝐭𝐡 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐰𝐞’𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐲 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐰𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐲 𝐜𝐚𝐠𝐞.”
the spice definitely picks up in this book and i liked how Kyrith had a different relationship and dynamic with each guy, that still also worked in a MFM group scene.
Lambert still holds my heart as #1 of all the heirs, tho.
i love this series so much and if you haven’t started already, you really should.
i’m not sure if i should be thanking or cursing Marie Mistry for an e-ARC of 𝑨𝒓𝒄𝒂𝒏𝒊𝒔𝒕 bc of that cliffhanger 😭 but i cannot wait until the next book to see how everything works out.
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
MFMMMMM, 1st person multi-POV
grumpy ghost librarian, meddling sentient library, magic, relationship contracts, M/F and MFM scenes, “good boy”, “aye mistress”, switch fmc, dom/sub relationships with safe words, cock cage, cliffhanger, book 2 of 3
November 27, 2025
Really?! That was a doozy of a cliffhanger… To start off with, this is as well written as Liminal. It’s engaging and unique and I still really enjoy a few of the characters, especially the library 😆 I wasn’t as into this one as I was the first though. I came to dislike some of the mmcs even more than I already did and to be honest, some did unforgivable things in my book, which I’m not a fan of in the books I enjoy. I’m also not really into a lot of the kinks that were presented, which felt like it was trying to cover most things… It’s still well done, I’ll still pick up the next one, but this just wasn’t for me as much as I had been hoping.
November 30, 2025
Absolutely love this series. I do wish this book was more plot focused than relationship focused, as the plot is so gooooood. Everything I absolutely LOVED from the first book was missing. The mystery, the yearning, the character development, the plot development, all evaporated. It jumped right into the spice and we lost all concepts of relationship development and plot.
We didn't really get much in the plot until the end. It's like the plot was an afterthought. Always appearing in the background until the big bad cliffhanger. The potential for the plot is insane and I wish it was focused more on it, instead the focus was a lot of droning on and on about the relationship contract and I just wasn't vibing. The contract itself took away from the relationship building as it went from centering on the people, to centering on a piece of paper. Just all around meh.
Another cliffhanger is annoying too, especially because the plot was FINALLY moving. Good read, and I'm giving it a 4 instead of a 3 because book 1 was just that good and there's so much potential for book 3. I'm not giving up on this series yet, but the first book was just leagues above this one. They aren't even in the same category. I'm shocked with the fall off. 😳
We didn't really get much in the plot until the end. It's like the plot was an afterthought. Always appearing in the background until the big bad cliffhanger. The potential for the plot is insane and I wish it was focused more on it, instead the focus was a lot of droning on and on about the relationship contract and I just wasn't vibing. The contract itself took away from the relationship building as it went from centering on the people, to centering on a piece of paper. Just all around meh.
Another cliffhanger is annoying too, especially because the plot was FINALLY moving. Good read, and I'm giving it a 4 instead of a 3 because book 1 was just that good and there's so much potential for book 3. I'm not giving up on this series yet, but the first book was just leagues above this one. They aren't even in the same category. I'm shocked with the fall off. 😳
November 28, 2025
Too many filler scenes, not really a character development, the main character doesn't act like someone who has all those years of knowledge. The characters made me so mad most of the time (yeah I'm speaking to you Leo & Pierce ).
Even though the history isn't how I imagined, Im hooked and I want Leo and Pierce yearning.
In conclusion is kinda trashy but it's entertaining.
Even though the history isn't how I imagined, Im hooked and I want Leo and Pierce yearning.
In conclusion is kinda trashy but it's entertaining.
November 15, 2025
“There are precious few moments in life where you can be the architect of your own destiny. Most of the time, the only choice you get to make is how to do the best you can with what Fate has handed you.”
my ARC review of Arcanist, the second book in the Arcanaeum series by Marie Mistry.
stahp it, I loved this one so so much.
the first book, Liminal, was my first ever ARC book, & I’ll be forever grateful to the author for taking a chance on me. & this series is easily one of my favorites of all time. how can you possibly beat a grumpy ghost librarian who protects a sentient magical library & beats the crap out of people who piss her off with her vast knowledge of magic?
this one was so fun, with deeper dives into each of the characters, their motivations, & their pasts, more magic, more 🌶️👀 times, & lots more angst & drama.
I loved seeing more interactions between the guys, and getting to know the Library more too. I genuinely think my favorite character might be the Library.
I received an ARC from the author in return for an honest review. this one releases November 25th, & I HIGHLY recommend this series! the first is on KU, so you have plenty of time to read it before this one releases.
👻paranormal RH (FMMMMMM)
📚sentient, hilarious, very opinionated magical library
👻grumpy, introverted ghost librarian & the 6 heirs who are falling for her
📚dark academia
👻first person, multiple POVs
📚shenanigans
👻spicy; ALL the kinks
📚Hermione-coded FMC: unhinged in the best way, & WILL eff you up with her vast knowledge of magic because she DOES, in fact, know more than you
👻lovable, flawed, relatable, real characters
📚the world building is the best— I want to live in this world so, so much
👻Lambert & Jasper are still my faaavs🫶🥰😍
📚animal companions
👻corruption from the top
📚ragtag group of misfits
👻found family
my ARC review of Arcanist, the second book in the Arcanaeum series by Marie Mistry.
stahp it, I loved this one so so much.
the first book, Liminal, was my first ever ARC book, & I’ll be forever grateful to the author for taking a chance on me. & this series is easily one of my favorites of all time. how can you possibly beat a grumpy ghost librarian who protects a sentient magical library & beats the crap out of people who piss her off with her vast knowledge of magic?
this one was so fun, with deeper dives into each of the characters, their motivations, & their pasts, more magic, more 🌶️👀 times, & lots more angst & drama.
I loved seeing more interactions between the guys, and getting to know the Library more too. I genuinely think my favorite character might be the Library.
I received an ARC from the author in return for an honest review. this one releases November 25th, & I HIGHLY recommend this series! the first is on KU, so you have plenty of time to read it before this one releases.
👻paranormal RH (FMMMMMM)
📚sentient, hilarious, very opinionated magical library
👻grumpy, introverted ghost librarian & the 6 heirs who are falling for her
📚dark academia
👻first person, multiple POVs
📚shenanigans
👻spicy; ALL the kinks
📚Hermione-coded FMC: unhinged in the best way, & WILL eff you up with her vast knowledge of magic because she DOES, in fact, know more than you
👻lovable, flawed, relatable, real characters
📚the world building is the best— I want to live in this world so, so much
👻Lambert & Jasper are still my faaavs🫶🥰😍
📚animal companions
👻corruption from the top
📚ragtag group of misfits
👻found family
November 18, 2025
~ i’ve won an arc giveaway in marie’s group so hence the early review
i’ve had the time of my life reading this book 😩😭💐💓 thank you marie!!!
the writing is phenomenal and it makes you feel part of the story in every way! the pace was perfect — i didnt feel like it dragged or moved too fast and we got plot but also relationships development/growth in a very balanced and intricate way
something else i gotta mention, the world building is insane and the premise for this story is so unique that it deserves every praise and share and achievements.
i love that the library is letting her personality shine even more and she is so fucking funny — the perfect wingwoman for kyrith
i feel SO much for and with kyrith in this book: she has to navigate being corporeal again, deal with six men that make her knees go weak and try to fix what’s going wrong not only with the guys but with the library and the families. she is trying so hard being the best she can be for everyone.
her men = chef’s kiss. it’s been a while since i’ve liked every single mmc in the harem from the getgo and yet here we are, and i still love every single one of them, even if they are the biggest assholes and dickheads and dumb cunts there are. each of them has their own personality which clearly shines throughout the book with one on one scenes and group ones.
this book will give you great banter, funny and swoon worthy (cough dakari cough) moments but it will also sucker punch you many times. THE ANGST AND SADNESS IS FUCKING REAL and my girl kyrith is going through it.
there is still so many mysteries around the library and kyrith and the heirs and i cannot wait to read Librarian.
the cliffie is HARSH but honestly it was AMAZING and done beautifuly!!! i wanna punch something and scream 😀🙏🏼
i’ve had the time of my life reading this book 😩😭💐💓 thank you marie!!!
the writing is phenomenal and it makes you feel part of the story in every way! the pace was perfect — i didnt feel like it dragged or moved too fast and we got plot but also relationships development/growth in a very balanced and intricate way
something else i gotta mention, the world building is insane and the premise for this story is so unique that it deserves every praise and share and achievements.
i love that the library is letting her personality shine even more and she is so fucking funny — the perfect wingwoman for kyrith
i feel SO much for and with kyrith in this book: she has to navigate being corporeal again, deal with six men that make her knees go weak and try to fix what’s going wrong not only with the guys but with the library and the families. she is trying so hard being the best she can be for everyone.
her men = chef’s kiss. it’s been a while since i’ve liked every single mmc in the harem from the getgo and yet here we are, and i still love every single one of them, even if they are the biggest assholes and dickheads and dumb cunts there are. each of them has their own personality which clearly shines throughout the book with one on one scenes and group ones.
this book will give you great banter, funny and swoon worthy (cough dakari cough) moments but it will also sucker punch you many times. THE ANGST AND SADNESS IS FUCKING REAL and my girl kyrith is going through it.
there is still so many mysteries around the library and kyrith and the heirs and i cannot wait to read Librarian.
the cliffie is HARSH but honestly it was AMAZING and done beautifuly!!! i wanna punch something and scream 😀🙏🏼
November 28, 2025
I don't know how I feel about this one. It wasn't bad or anything - the plot was decent and the story is still unfolding, but this one felt weirdly focused on relationships in ways that didn't make sense to me.
Like, they should have been finding ways to shore up defenses with all of the enormous problems they have, but instead they're playing around with relationship contracts and having sex. I fully understood Leo's annoyance at her being off sucking dick rather than solving his curse because I was feeling that way about ALL of their problems being shoved aside for sex. I get that she hasn't gotten laid in 500 years, but come on! Priorities, people.
Also, I really don't buy North as a dom... he's got way too much of a "insecure teenager with a chip on his shoulder who has no idea what he's doing" vibe.
Like, they should have been finding ways to shore up defenses with all of the enormous problems they have, but instead they're playing around with relationship contracts and having sex. I fully understood Leo's annoyance at her being off sucking dick rather than solving his curse because I was feeling that way about ALL of their problems being shoved aside for sex. I get that she hasn't gotten laid in 500 years, but come on! Priorities, people.
Also, I really don't buy North as a dom... he's got way too much of a "insecure teenager with a chip on his shoulder who has no idea what he's doing" vibe.
November 29, 2025
4.5 ⭐️/3 🌶️—I was excited for the second book in the series and was not disappointed. The plot does not move terribly quickly, but it gives more space for characterization. The MCs are flawed and sometimes not terribly likable, but I actually think this is a strength of the storytelling. The romance with the main characters is heating up, as there was very little in the first book. This book, like the previous one, ends on a huge cliffhanger and I’m not looking forward to waiting for what (I assume) will be the final book, making this a trilogy.
November 26, 2025
Holy mother of cliffhangers. This book was just as good as the first one if not BETTER. It made me cackle, it made me cry, it made me swoon, it made RAGE AND FEAR FOR MY BLOOD PRESSURE (Leo, looking at you).
Another 6⭐ before the end of the year. Another God tier series.
Although late, I received an e-ARC of Arcanist from the author's Ream but these are my honest opinions and feelings (so many of them).
Another 6⭐ before the end of the year. Another God tier series.
Although late, I received an e-ARC of Arcanist from the author's Ream but these are my honest opinions and feelings (so many of them).
November 26, 2025
Absolutely would have been a five star read, except…
Plots revolving around smartest people making the stupidest choices for the stupidest reasons is enraging. Also, “The big bad is coming! We need to prepare! Or! We could just bang instead, I guess?”
Yes, the plot must plot. Yes, there must be strife to overcome. We know this.
But.
Smarty smart people doing stupid stuff and choosing the stupidest choice every single time almost made me DNF. And I *love* this author and I *loved* book 1.
Plots revolving around smartest people making the stupidest choices for the stupidest reasons is enraging. Also, “The big bad is coming! We need to prepare! Or! We could just bang instead, I guess?”
Yes, the plot must plot. Yes, there must be strife to overcome. We know this.
But.
Smarty smart people doing stupid stuff and choosing the stupidest choice every single time almost made me DNF. And I *love* this author and I *loved* book 1.
November 30, 2025
Engrossing
Oh gosh. Where to start. First, that cliffhanger was brutal. I am going to be waiting not so patiently for book three to put me out my misery. I just love Kyrith. She is such a stoic and different fmc that she really catches your interest and holds her lead role despite strong well written mmcs and strong villains. I love the whole premise of this world. Five stars for being a fresh and new plot. Can't wait for book three!
Oh gosh. Where to start. First, that cliffhanger was brutal. I am going to be waiting not so patiently for book three to put me out my misery. I just love Kyrith. She is such a stoic and different fmc that she really catches your interest and holds her lead role despite strong well written mmcs and strong villains. I love the whole premise of this world. Five stars for being a fresh and new plot. Can't wait for book three!
November 30, 2025
OMG WHAT THE HELL. I'm still dumbfounded by that ending. (though I already suspected one of the people who betrayed her).
Poor Kyrith, she didn't deserve all that happened to her. And she still has to shoulder the blame for things that were NOT to blame (Pierce, you asshole!). I'm sad this is over and also WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK??
I NEED IT!
Poor Kyrith, she didn't deserve all that happened to her. And she still has to shoulder the blame for things that were NOT to blame (Pierce, you asshole!). I'm sad this is over and also WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK??
I NEED IT!
dnf
November 29, 2025marie mistry's worldbuilding is always so interesting but there's just too much smut...
like... there are literally more important things to be doing than fucking all the time... + i just don't like the bdsm aspects. and all the guys just seem kind of childish compared to kyrith
like... there are literally more important things to be doing than fucking all the time... + i just don't like the bdsm aspects. and all the guys just seem kind of childish compared to kyrith
November 25, 2025
one of my favourite series ever! i love love love this book so so much!!
November 26, 2025
Marie I missed your writing so much <3333 bloody good book love u
November 29, 2025
Ummmmm wtf no, just no, that cliffhanger 😱😭
I can’t wait for book 3!
I can’t wait for book 3!
November 25, 2025
CLITERATURE.
I ascended. I left my mortal body. That one line alone earned this book a 5/5 before I even blinked. I was cackling like a feral raccoon in a dumpster full of glitter.
Book 2 of The Arcanaeum Series??
MARIE MISTRY SAID “SPICE?” AND THEN LIT THE WHOLE KITCHEN ON FIRE.
The kinks? The representation? The sheer audacity?? I was giggling, kicking my feet, and pacing the room like a Victorian man with a scandal.
The audiobook is going to annihilate the reverse-harem girlies. We’re not surviving that. We will ALL crumble in the group chat together.
This universe? Chef’s kiss.
I’m obsessed. Inject book 3 directly into my veins. This series deserves a museum dedicated entirely to smutty fan art. If I had even ONE artistic bone in my body (I do not), these MMCs would be getting worshipped in full glorious NSFW detail.
And that CLIFFHANGER???
MA’AM???
I screamed. Out loud. This is how you write a series that kidnaps your soul and refuses to give it back.
Kyrith: flawless. Iconic. Mother. I would follow her into battle or into morally questionable decisions - either is fine. Bow down.
The MMCs: every single one - Delicious. Some of them absolutely deserve to be spanked (non-sexually), but we love them anyway.
Thank the literary gods for REAM, because if I had to wait in silence after that ending, I’d start gnawing on drywall. Back to the cave for the re-read.
I ascended. I left my mortal body. That one line alone earned this book a 5/5 before I even blinked. I was cackling like a feral raccoon in a dumpster full of glitter.
Book 2 of The Arcanaeum Series??
MARIE MISTRY SAID “SPICE?” AND THEN LIT THE WHOLE KITCHEN ON FIRE.
The kinks? The representation? The sheer audacity?? I was giggling, kicking my feet, and pacing the room like a Victorian man with a scandal.
The audiobook is going to annihilate the reverse-harem girlies. We’re not surviving that. We will ALL crumble in the group chat together.
This universe? Chef’s kiss.
I’m obsessed. Inject book 3 directly into my veins. This series deserves a museum dedicated entirely to smutty fan art. If I had even ONE artistic bone in my body (I do not), these MMCs would be getting worshipped in full glorious NSFW detail.
And that CLIFFHANGER???
MA’AM???
I screamed. Out loud. This is how you write a series that kidnaps your soul and refuses to give it back.
Kyrith: flawless. Iconic. Mother. I would follow her into battle or into morally questionable decisions - either is fine. Bow down.
The MMCs: every single one - Delicious. Some of them absolutely deserve to be spanked (non-sexually), but we love them anyway.
Thank the literary gods for REAM, because if I had to wait in silence after that ending, I’d start gnawing on drywall. Back to the cave for the re-read.
November 29, 2025
In all honesty, the execution and overall strength of this story probably didn't deserve four stars, but I like the concept of a ghost running a magic library enough to bump it up a bit.
I like how level-headed and logical our heroine tries to be, even in the face of remarkable idiocy from some of the house heirs she deals with daily. This book picks up immediately after the cliffhanger of the first book, and the ensuing development created new and interesting dynamics between the characters — some more rage-inducing than others. I can't say I'm all that interested in the romance scenes (they're honestly more cringe-inducing for me than anything most of the time), but I appreciate that the author took the time to develop relationships between all characters — romantic or platonic — to make them feel three-dimensional.
This book ended in yet another cliffhanger (I saw it coming but am still somehow shocked), so I hope we don't have to wait too long until the third (and conclusion?) book in the series!
I like how level-headed and logical our heroine tries to be, even in the face of remarkable idiocy from some of the house heirs she deals with daily. This book picks up immediately after the cliffhanger of the first book, and the ensuing development created new and interesting dynamics between the characters — some more rage-inducing than others. I can't say I'm all that interested in the romance scenes (they're honestly more cringe-inducing for me than anything most of the time), but I appreciate that the author took the time to develop relationships between all characters — romantic or platonic — to make them feel three-dimensional.
This book ended in yet another cliffhanger (I saw it coming but am still somehow shocked), so I hope we don't have to wait too long until the third (and conclusion?) book in the series!
November 26, 2025
That ending broke me. Tore me to pieces. Physically made me ill.
I legit was not expecting a cliffhanger.
With that being said, this book was a dream to read. The world and the library alone are a big draw but the characters just keep you wanting more.
I don’t want to spoil anything but fuck me, Leo broke my heart and I truly hoped he wouldn’t. Like man up and face your fears my friend. Like dude I can’t even process that ending and everything that happened before it. My minds literally racing. As is my heart.
North was a surprise that I was super giddy for.
Lambert is a ray of fucking sunshine.
Jasper is mine and I won’t share. That’s final.
Dakari was exactly who I hoped he’d be.
Pierce has a lot to answer for.
Poor Kyrith just can’t catch a break from Mathias. My hatred for him just grew and grew.
I’m not even sure what the next book will be like but I need it asap. My heart can’t handle the wait.
I legit was not expecting a cliffhanger.
With that being said, this book was a dream to read. The world and the library alone are a big draw but the characters just keep you wanting more.
I don’t want to spoil anything but fuck me, Leo broke my heart and I truly hoped he wouldn’t. Like man up and face your fears my friend. Like dude I can’t even process that ending and everything that happened before it. My minds literally racing. As is my heart.
North was a surprise that I was super giddy for.
Lambert is a ray of fucking sunshine.
Jasper is mine and I won’t share. That’s final.
Dakari was exactly who I hoped he’d be.
Pierce has a lot to answer for.
Poor Kyrith just can’t catch a break from Mathias. My hatred for him just grew and grew.
I’m not even sure what the next book will be like but I need it asap. My heart can’t handle the wait.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 16, 2025
"In fact, unmanaged fear is almost always the mechanism through which powerful and influential tyrants rise to power."
I am glad that Marie Mistry warned me about Kindles being thrown at walls... I kept mine out of my hands as I finished this book, and I am glad I did.
I ate this book, I can't even explain how much I love the Librarian, the heirs... And the Arcaneum, that sentient library has my heart for as long as I live.
The complicated relationships, curses that run through generations, political intrigues, hope... And of course, my favorite: found family.
I can't say much without giving spoilers. This is book 2 of a trilogy, and I can't wait to have my grabby hands on book 3, because that was not a cliffhanger, that was emotional sabotage.
If you haven't read Liminal, it is available on KU. Go read it before book 2 comes out. Thank me later.
I am glad that Marie Mistry warned me about Kindles being thrown at walls... I kept mine out of my hands as I finished this book, and I am glad I did.
I ate this book, I can't even explain how much I love the Librarian, the heirs... And the Arcaneum, that sentient library has my heart for as long as I live.
The complicated relationships, curses that run through generations, political intrigues, hope... And of course, my favorite: found family.
I can't say much without giving spoilers. This is book 2 of a trilogy, and I can't wait to have my grabby hands on book 3, because that was not a cliffhanger, that was emotional sabotage.
If you haven't read Liminal, it is available on KU. Go read it before book 2 comes out. Thank me later.
November 16, 2025
This book was so worth the wait! But also I’m definitely mad at the author about that cliffhanger. That was so mean. I don’t understand how I’m supposed to wait for the next one.
I loved watching Kyrith grow in this book as she discovers what it means to be human again. Lambert, Dakari, and Jasper remain the best boys. North joined them in regard. Even Pierce got a little more likable even though he’s still an AH (but he’s trying to do what’s right. I even think the betrayal at the end might have decent motives). But I want to punt Leo off a cliff. There better be some effing groveling happening in the next book. He might be a dom but he better be on the ground kissing her feet when she makes it through the cliffhanger.
I’m begging the author for the next book. This book is going to haunt me (lol pun intended).
I loved watching Kyrith grow in this book as she discovers what it means to be human again. Lambert, Dakari, and Jasper remain the best boys. North joined them in regard. Even Pierce got a little more likable even though he’s still an AH (but he’s trying to do what’s right. I even think the betrayal at the end might have decent motives). But I want to punt Leo off a cliff. There better be some effing groveling happening in the next book. He might be a dom but he better be on the ground kissing her feet when she makes it through the cliffhanger.
I’m begging the author for the next book. This book is going to haunt me (lol pun intended).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2025
Really regretting my choice not to wait for book 3 before starting this one because holy moly that cliffhanger, but of course I could not.
It was a great time, though. Especially if you like yelling at your kindle while people make incredibly bad choices that lead to predictably terrible results! 😂 I’m gonna be honest, the characters often acted like boneheaded teenagers and it did get frustrating at times. But there were lots of laughs and some very sweet moments, and the spice was plentiful and varied. The lore expanded in some fun ways, and there was plenty of plot to be had.
The Arcaneum itself continued to be my favorite character, just narrowly edging out my beloved Lambert. North especially grew on me in this one. But everyone had their moments, and I genuinely do love all of them. Even dumbass Leo!
Can’t wait for the final installment!
It was a great time, though. Especially if you like yelling at your kindle while people make incredibly bad choices that lead to predictably terrible results! 😂 I’m gonna be honest, the characters often acted like boneheaded teenagers and it did get frustrating at times. But there were lots of laughs and some very sweet moments, and the spice was plentiful and varied. The lore expanded in some fun ways, and there was plenty of plot to be had.
The Arcaneum itself continued to be my favorite character, just narrowly edging out my beloved Lambert. North especially grew on me in this one. But everyone had their moments, and I genuinely do love all of them. Even dumbass Leo!
Can’t wait for the final installment!
November 30, 2025
DNF at 63%
- I'm still mixing up every single MMC every time
- plot?
- just unbelievable amount of sex in contrast to the first book that had a completely different pace and vibe
- no romance (as in... romantic stuff)
- all the sex and kink literally feels like ticking the boxes in a Whychoose Book Starter Pack™
- the FMC is a 500+ year old powerful magical being, why does she need any of the MMCs at all?? The justifications don't add up. She literally keeps doing everything by herself hahaha
- reads like a high school drama
The first book was solid. It's disappointing that the second book is nothing like it.
- I'm still mixing up every single MMC every time
- plot?
- just unbelievable amount of sex in contrast to the first book that had a completely different pace and vibe
- no romance (as in... romantic stuff)
- all the sex and kink literally feels like ticking the boxes in a Whychoose Book Starter Pack™
- the FMC is a 500+ year old powerful magical being, why does she need any of the MMCs at all?? The justifications don't add up. She literally keeps doing everything by herself hahaha
- reads like a high school drama
The first book was solid. It's disappointing that the second book is nothing like it.
November 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Stars — I’m STILL recovering from that cliffhanger
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, and wow… I devoured it. From the very first chapter, I was hooked — the pacing, the emotion, the tension, the character growth, everything was on point. The author somehow managed to raise the stakes even higher than book one, and I didn’t think that was possible.
And that cliffhanger?! I’m unwell. I’m dramatic. I’m pacing my living room. I need book three immediately.
Thank you, Marie for the ARC — I’m obsessed and counting down the days until book 3.
I was lucky enough to receive an ARC of this book, and wow… I devoured it. From the very first chapter, I was hooked — the pacing, the emotion, the tension, the character growth, everything was on point. The author somehow managed to raise the stakes even higher than book one, and I didn’t think that was possible.
And that cliffhanger?! I’m unwell. I’m dramatic. I’m pacing my living room. I need book three immediately.
Thank you, Marie for the ARC — I’m obsessed and counting down the days until book 3.
November 29, 2025
Cliffhanger
This series is already so exciting. The characters are full and wonderful, the world building is amazing. Why would you ruin what could have been one of my absolute favorites with cliffhangers? I'm still going to read the next one, but in the future I will probably wait until all the books are out before starting another series by this author. Sorry Marie, you are an amazing author but cliffhangers of this magnitude for a second time in a row after what felt like a long wait is a caution sign for me.
This series is already so exciting. The characters are full and wonderful, the world building is amazing. Why would you ruin what could have been one of my absolute favorites with cliffhangers? I'm still going to read the next one, but in the future I will probably wait until all the books are out before starting another series by this author. Sorry Marie, you are an amazing author but cliffhangers of this magnitude for a second time in a row after what felt like a long wait is a caution sign for me.
November 30, 2025
This book was good. Not great.
The amount of time spent on sex-capades seemed off. Also the emphasis on Dom/sub and bdsm is not for me, so I skipped through that. Although I feel the amount of trust needed for her and North's scene was not there. They barely acknowledged a liking for each other. It just didn't fit.
Kyrie also seemed a bit weaker in this book, probably because of the sex scenes.
The ending brought the tension, so I'm still looking forward to the next book.
(see Beth M. and Shannon Farley's review. I agree with both of them)
The amount of time spent on sex-capades seemed off. Also the emphasis on Dom/sub and bdsm is not for me, so I skipped through that. Although I feel the amount of trust needed for her and North's scene was not there. They barely acknowledged a liking for each other. It just didn't fit.
Kyrie also seemed a bit weaker in this book, probably because of the sex scenes.
The ending brought the tension, so I'm still looking forward to the next book.
(see Beth M. and Shannon Farley's review. I agree with both of them)
November 25, 2025
Such a good read! The world building and magic system in this book is incredible. The characters are fantastic. You get to see the relationship between Kyrith and her guys bloom, and some whither a little, but I'm here for all of it. If you thought the cliff hanger for book 1 was rough, wait till you read this one! Can't wait for the next book, so in love with this series.
November 26, 2025
The twists, the turns, the shocks and the heartbreak, oh and the spice?! Good freaking god this book has everything and more!
As always with Marie Mistry, I’m left on the edge of my seat with a massive book hangover unsure what I just read and how it makes me feel whilst left with enough intrigue to become feral for the next instalment. If I could give more stars I would.
As always with Marie Mistry, I’m left on the edge of my seat with a massive book hangover unsure what I just read and how it makes me feel whilst left with enough intrigue to become feral for the next instalment. If I could give more stars I would.
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