Kuxtal Academy: The First Spark

Kuxtal Academy #2

by Nelle Nikole, Mikayla D. Hornedo

Prophecies. Fated Mates. Secrets.

Mira and Koa Canek have a new reality to face, and it’s more dangerous than ever.

The Cynod’s grip is weakening, and power is shifting in unpredictable ways. When a rebellion comes knocking, the Canek siblings must decide if uneasy allies are worth the risk. But with destinies tied to the gods, betrayal woven into every choice, and trust in short supply, the line between friend and foe blurs with every step.

At Kuxtal Academy, ancient cenotes whisper secrets, professors hide truths, and forbidden knowledge waits in shadows. For Mira, trust shatters as betrayals strike close to home. Koa’s arranged engagement to a woman of many faces threatens both freedom and heart. Sienna resists rebel promises she cannot believe in. Wren’s suspicious behavior explodes into a betrayal that fractures the group and drives the stakes to their breaking point.

Yet even as truths unravel, nothing can prepare them for what awaits beyond their realm of understanding. Because when the last page turns, one spark will ignite a journey that takes them farther than they ever imagined.

Genres: Romantasy

665 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 11, 2025

About the author

Nelle Nikole, a California native now based in Atlanta, has been writing thrilling stories since her early days in elementary school. With a background in Anthropology, Nelle’s passion for understanding diverse cultures took her on research journeys to Rio de Janeiro and Cuba. Her love for knowledge didn’t stop there—she later earned a Master’s degree in Public Policy, which fuels the complex societal themes in her writing. Nelle is the author of two gripping series: the Kuxtal Academy series and a separate dystopian fantasy romance series, featuring Rising, Echoes of War, and Before Their After, Ashes of Honor. Through powerful themes of survival, morality, and human resilience, her work resonates deeply with readers from all walks of life. Nelle finds herself inspired by all things fantasy, apocalyptic and anything in between. When she’s not writing, Nelle enjoys life with her husband Ben.

Reviews

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

HELLO?????!!! THATS WHERE THEY LEAVE ME?!?! Wowowowow I loved this book it was so good!! The plot the characters the way it’s all weaving together and then the end shoving us off cliffs as per usual!!!! I need moreeeeee!!

[Amanda | escapetoerilea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kuxtal Academy: The First Spark by Nelle Nikole & Mikayla D. Hornedo
Kuxtal Academy book 2

Thank you to Nelle and Mikayla for entrusting me with an early copy!

Dedication: "To those who rise when silence is easier, who risk all to confront tyranny - may your courage write the future."

Mayan inspired urban fantasy romance
Multiple POV, two romances, rebellion, dark academia, found family, diverse characters, mental health and therapy rep, dyslexia rep, forbidden romance, prophecy, influential parents pushing their agendas, secrets, interesting magic system, shifters (including basilisk and jaguar), scary men being softy boyfriends, old gods and new gods, great female friendship, criminal underworld, crime boss, science nerd, corrupt government, uncomfortable business partners, betrayal, fated mates, arranged marriage (that we don't want), world walking, best friend's brother, trying to solve the mystery of aunt's demise, politics, cliffhanger!

Woah! We get another action packed story that kept me on edge of my seat and up way too late to see what was happening! I loved each couple figuring themselves out while trying to navigate what was being thrown at them! We see an expansion of the world building and even more magic. I still am raging at the bad guys (even more!) and loving the found family! What an ending!! I don't know want to spoil anything but I have some more books to read and I can't wait for book 3!

[Liz 🪽✨ S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

WHAT A RIDE. Thank you so much to Nelle Nikole and Mikayla D. Hornedo for this ARC!

I love love loved the first book and this sequel was no different. After the shocking cliff hanger we were left with in book one, you are immediately tossed back in from the the first chapter. A brewing rebellion, a tyrant elite society, more secrets, forbidden love, fated mates and even higher stakes- we also get much more of the academy setting than the first book which I really enjoyed!!

With a perfect blend of character development and plot with a whole lot of rebellious political scheming, this did not deter from the DELICIOUS romance in this sequel. The relationships are not without their trails and tribulations, I really love how both authors navigate these character dynamics.

Koa and Sienna are the baddie power couple people everyone wishes they could be (*cough cough* 👀), their growth and love in this book was everything. Wren and Mira!!!! My shaylas!! Listen I have no favorites in this series but I am just a SIMP for quite literally anything Wren says or does.

“I’d go to the grave for you, Mira. I could die and be resuscitated on a loop for three thousand years, and I’d welcome it if it meant you were safe.”

THE FRIENDSHIP?? Please this was so pure and everything "If there was one aspect of my life that was going right, it was this. Her, Sienna and I, and how we all fit together seamlessly. No jealously, no competition, just three young women existing and being perfectly happy together." Never highlighted something so quick, the epitome of friendship and womanhood.

Truly this is such a beautiful and unique story, the mayan inspired world is captivating and gripping on every page. BIG thank you to the authors for including clickable links within the text to allow you to reference back their Nahuales index, it was so nice to be able to really immersive myself in this beautiful world and cultural aspects.

THAT ENDING?? I was tapping my kindle like it didn’t ending there!! Cannot wait for book three!!

[Azarra Lucas · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨THIS BOOK CHANGED MY BRAIN CHEMISTRY!!✨
I wasn’t really sure what to expect with Kuxtal Academy: The First Spark, but damn! This sequel deff hit harder than the first. It had a lil bit of a slow start but it completely pulled me in!! I stayed up til 4 am just to “read one more chapter” (HA, yeah right). The lack of sleep was soo worth it.

The worldbuilding was so rich and layered and immersive— it literally felt like I was in the story and I was just one of Mira’s friends lol. I loved watching the characters grow and the tension escalating. And when a certain Sienna-wannabe came in the picture?? I was clutching my chest with anxiety. I laughed, cringed, swooned, and even yelled at my kindle throughout the book.

Yes, some parts were dense with lore but they did a beautiful job with showing us and not telling us. I loved how it still had that academia feeling where we feel like the professors were teaching us. I’ve read so many dark academia books that lack actual academia but this was perfect. The plot moved with purpose!! Each reveal felt earned, each twist kept me on my toes. I loved the switch of POVs because I had me YEARNING for more. This story is just *chefs kiss*

If you want mystery, magic, romance, spice (looking at you chapter 53 🥵) and a world full of corrupt government officials and trashy parents, this is YOUR read. Start with Kuxtal Academy: The Beginning and prepare to have your mind BLOWN 🤯 thank you @mikayla.hornedo.author and @authornellenikole for the ARC ✨🥰

[Shannon | readingwithmarlow · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOOOK? Just like the first, it read so incredibly well and I was locked in every time I picked it up. The alternating povs (with new ones in this book!!) kept my attention so well and there was so much more action in this one than book 1.

The ROMANCE was unreal- imagine me reading chapter 53 in a middle seat on a plane just absolutely blushing and turning my brightness waaaayyy down. That was hot as hell I’ll tell you what.

The way the lore, magic, and world all explode in this one was incredible and I’m SAT for what is to come.

Thank you ENDLESSLY to the authors for the advanced copy! This series is a must read for all romantasy fans, especially those who love an academy setting with a LOT of morally grey men 🤭

[Bethany Hunter · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

I fell in love with this Mayan-Inspired dark academia series with book one, and book two didn’t disappoint! It made me so happy that the characters I came to love were still just as great in this book, and I am still so in love with the magic system and world. The romance and spice were well written, the cynod’s manipulation was infuriating, and we hit the ground running from page one. This was a compelling read and I’m so happy that book two carried the same momentum that I loved in book one. That cliffhanger was BRUTAL, I can’t wait for the next book!

[Bec · Rating 4 out of 5]

“𝘐’𝘥 𝘨𝘰 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘔𝘪𝘳𝘢. 𝘐 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘥𝘪𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘶𝘴𝘤𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘰𝘯 𝘢 𝘭𝘰𝘰𝘱 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘦𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘐’𝘥 𝘸𝘦𝘭𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘧 𝘪𝘵 𝘮𝘦𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘧𝘦.”

■ Sister’s best friend
■ Morally grey MMC’s
■ Academy setting
■ Multi POV
■ Forbidden romance
■ Fated mates
■ Mayan mythology
■ Unique magic system
■ Diverse characters

Another great book! I love the magic system so much, the spice was top tier, especially that last spicy scene towards the end 🥵🥵🥵

After that ending I am now going to have to go and read the other series!!!!!!! What a cliffhanger!

[ComeReadWithDocP · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bienvenidos a La Última Resistencia

Happy Release Day to this absolute powerhouse of a sequel! If you thought book one delivered, book two said “hold my cafecito.” This installment leans even deeper into the dystopian side of the series—and since it’s Dystopian December, the timing is perfect.

⚠️ Light spoilers if you haven’t read book one.

This book picks up immediately after the events of The Beginning and launches us straight into the heart of the resistance. The worldbuilding around La Última Resistencia is phenomenal, layered, intentional, and a natural evolution of everything hinted at in book one. And yet the fantasy worldbuilding continues too, giving us a rich, dual-genre experience: magic + dystopia in perfect harmony.

This sequel is packed with: prophecies that finally start to unfold, secrets and lies that cut deep, enemies who might not be enemies, pasts resurfacing with teeth, twists that hit at exactly the right moment

I swear, every other chapter had my jaw unhinged. One moment you love someone, the next you want to throw them off a cliff, and then somehow you’re soft for them again. Emotional whiplash in the best way.

And Mira.Her nahuale reveal? I didn’t see it coming, but now that I know, I can’t imagine her as anything else. She is unhinged, powerful, gentle, brilliant, and furious all at once. A full-force Latina main character written with so much love and depth. A true badass shaped by destiny and choice.

The prophecy drives this book forward with urgency, but the unanswered pieces keep you turning pages. We know where we’re supposed to end up… but how we get there? Chaotic perfection.

Another major win: the shift from dual POV to multi-POV. We get real character arcs. Real growth. Real consequences. The found family dynamic becomes stronger, messier, more emotionally rich. Everyone has a role, and everyone matters.

This book made me feel forty-nine different emotions and sometimes within five chapters. That’s how I know a story is top-tier.

I cannot wait to continue this series, and yes, I devoured that author’s note. IYKYK

Now if you’ll excuse me, I need to buy more books to fill the void while I wait for book three.

Thank you both for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review. ❤️

[Allison Engblom · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to be gifted an ARC and am obsessed. WOW. Nelle and Mikayla just do not miss! It has been multiple days since I finished and I am still staring at the wall with my brain making the dial tone sound. Let the painful wait for book 3 commence!

Kuxtal Academy The First Spark takes off immediately at where book 1 ended. If you are not like me who has the ending of book one seared into your memory, you will need to go back and refresh yourself. Nelle and Mikayla have always been incredibly gifted at creating characters that feel so real. I felt so connected to the characters and their individual journeys in this book so much so that I laughed along with their shenanigans, died of second-hand embarrassment on their behalf, and cried with them during their struggles. This novel focuses a lot on character development and political intrigue. We're talking corrupt political systems and the impact on class, education, and information. There are still plenty of action scenes but this is a typical second novel that you can tell is building up for the conflict to come. Don't this this deter you, as there is so much going on character and plot wise that I was flying through the book. You get to explore more of the world, learn more about their magic system and history, expand on characters we already know, and get introduced to some new faces.

There is still a focus on friendship and the family you create which really is the heart of this series. The family trauma is alive and well in this book and the way these characters navigate the pain of this and reimagine what "family" means really stayed with me.

The romance ROMANCED. No notes. I am still day dreaming about how sweet the relationships are. There definitely was spice sprinkled throughout that I am STILL thinking about (Koa...there truly are no words 🥵) so for the people here for the heat....don't worry, this book definitely delivers.

Nelle and Mikayla continue to be auto-buy authors for me. I feel so blessed to have found their work and live inside their imaginations. I CANNOT wait to see where this series is headed. If you have not read this series yet, move it up your TBR stat!

[Ana Ruano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mira and Koa Canek are back, facing a world more dangerous and unpredictable than ever. With the Cynod’s grip weakening, power is shifting in ways no one can fully anticipate, and a rebellion is knocking at their door. The Canek siblings must decide whether uneasy allies are worth the risk, all while destinies tied to the gods, betrayal, and distrust blur the line between friend and foe at every turn.

At Kuxtal Academy, ancient cenotes whisper secrets, professors hide truths, and forbidden knowledge waits in the shadows. Mira’s trust is tested as betrayals strike closer to home than she ever expected. Koa’s arranged engagement to a woman of many faces threatens both freedom and heart. Sienna struggles to resist promises from the rebels she cannot bring herself to trust, and Wren’s suspicious behavior explodes into a shocking betrayal that fractures the group, raising the stakes to their absolute breaking point.

The world-building in this series is breathtaking. Even with four POVs this time, Nelle and Mikayla do an amazing job keeping every perspective distinct, clear, and compelling. The layers of power, control, and rebellion are rich and intricate, and the Cynod’s manipulation of knowledge and sacred spaces—destroying archives, renaming gods, forcing forgetfulness—echoes the real-world tactics of empire and domination. Mira, Koa, and their friends must navigate these dangerous currents and fight to break the cycles their parents helped create.

And despite the darkness, tension, and high-stakes intrigue, the story still finds room for steamy, spicy moments that had my Kindle practically overheating by the end. Dark academia meets political intrigue meets dystopian rebellion—with romance, desire, and heat woven seamlessly into the story.

The first book left us on a cliffhanger, and this one keeps the tension high, leaving us on yet another edge-of-your-seat cliffhanger by the end. One spark ignites a fire that will take readers farther than they ever imagined.

[SarahinWanderland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five stars. This book wrecked me in the best way.

The First Spark is more than a fantasy novel—it’s an unflinching reflection of how oppressive systems sustain themselves through fear, revisionism, and erasure. The world the author builds feels frighteningly relevant. Beneath the magic and prophecies lies a sharp commentary on colonization, the rewriting of history, and the ways power is maintained by silencing those who remember the truth. The Cynod’s manipulation of knowledge and control over sacred spaces echoes the real-world tactics of empire and domination: destroy the archives, rename the gods, and convince the people to forget. Every whispered secret at Kuxtal Academy becomes a metaphor for the stories stolen from generations before.

The Canek siblings’ struggle against these forces isn’t just about survival—it’s about reclamation. Mira’s loss of trust, Koa’s fight to break the cycles of harm his parents helped sustain, and Sienna’s disillusionment each carry the weight of resisting a system built to consume them. Wren’s desperate push for autonomy and agency, even when it leads to betrayal, becomes one of the most gut-wrenching reflections of what oppression does to those trapped inside it. The rebellion isn’t romanticized; it’s messy, dangerous, and morally complex, much like real resistance movements that rise under oppression.

What makes the book powerful is how it demands readers to recognize the cost of forgetting. When those in power distort the past, truth becomes an act of rebellion. The First Spark captures that tension with precision and heart, making it one of the most urgent and impactful fantasy stories I’ve read in years.

[Emily Whittaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has my heart. I don't think I've ever connected with a cast of characters as quickly as I have these.
This is one of those series that will make you scream, cry, and laugh out loud, all in the same chapter. FIVE STARS.

Mayan-inspired Magic System • Academy Setting • Fated Mates • Forbidden Love • Multi-POV

In a magical society controlled by elite families, power level determines your place. Those with higher level nahaul's (powers/ abilities) are guaranteed placement in premier academies and reserved the best career opportunities, while those with lower level nahaul's live in poverty, constantly working with little reprieve.

The First Spark, the second book in the series, drops us right in the heart of a brewing rebellion that seeks to put an end to the boundless oppression and manipulation of a corrupt regime.

Tensions rise when the group discovers the Cynod, the ruling class, has created new ways to control the population, with Mira, one of our FMC's, at the forefront of their plans.
My heart was in my stomach for at least the first 25% of this book. My heart ached for both Koa & Sienna and Mira & Wren.
The love between each pairing is incredibly strong, and somehow withstands despite the forces trying to tear them apart at every turn. While the couples are stronger than ever by the end of the book, I fear what the future holds in store for them as they continue their journey to fulfilling the prophecy.

Thank you so much Mikayla Hornedo and
Nelle Nikole for gifting me an advanced copy!! This is truly one of my new favorite series!!

[Jenny Lampe · Rating 5 out of 5]

RUNNING LAPS AROUND MY HOUSE AFTER THIS ONE. Are you kidding me? Are you actually joking. I am BUZZING with excitement for what's to come in this series. Kuxtal Academy: The First Spark blew me away. This is a Roman Empire series.

Kuxtal Academy: The First Spark is a perfect blend of romance and character development and plot. Let’s start with the romance. Even though the couples got together in book 1, that doesn’t mean there isn’t any conflict, especially when there are “expectations” from family and class status. Seeing these characters grow and learn and heal was easily my favorite part. These men may be hyper masculine, but there’s no toxic masculinity here. Along with the romance, the development and exploration of the female friendships was so beautiful to see.

Now onto the plot. I love that the academic classes are part of the lore and world building. The pacing felt incredible to me. All of the lore was easy to digest, and I kept wanting to flip the pages to get more. The way this world keeps expanding and opening up has me so excited to see what more we will get. I love the mythology and the magic system in Kuxtal Academy, and we really got so much more in this book.

I hope that Kuxtal Academy takes the book world by storm. It’s so deserving. I would definitely recommend it for all romantasy readers who enjoy a bit of an urban setting with technology, academic vibes, spicy romances, and of course a rebellion ready to take on the corrupt government.

Thank you to the authors for the eARC. This review is honest and voluntary.

[Sierra| HooksxBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mikayla & Nelle did it agaaaainnnn!! OMG. I've held onto this review for dayysss, okay, DAYS!!

The First Spark gave me all of the feels, answered all of the questions I had from book one and left me shook and ready to toss this damn kindle out the damn window!!!!

I have absolutely no damn idea HOW these two authors, have created and maintained this fantasy world, but its written in a way that you can picture and experience with your own senses. I love how we're watching the students grow within their own powers(nahuals), watching the trio, Mira, Sienna & Katia bond, grow and practice. Man, the exploration, the love, the grief and just the unfurling of what WE(specifically they) thought to be true. BABBBBYYYY.

Now, I'm not going to give anything away, but I felt every single emotion reading this book. I was afraid, nervous, anxious, excited, sad and enthralled. I cried for many, many reasons. The way, I kept counting down the pages and stalling because I was not ready for it to end, and when it did, I was freaking GAGGED!!!

Sidebar: I loveeeee Mira and Wren. I cannot wait to see what comes next for them and Mira's development!!! *Screams into the void*



I received an Advanced copy of this Book HOWEVER, I've also pre-ordered - so do with THIS information what you will, and READ THE SERIES!! All of theirs actually, THEY HAVE DONE SOMETHING MAGICAL AND I CANNOT WAIT TO EXPERINCE THIS!!!

[Willie Mercedes · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE FIRST SPARK (aka Book 2) said “welcome back, bestie” and immediately yeeted me into a full-blown rebellion. Like—hello?? I was NOT prepared for this level of anti-empire chaos before my morning coffee.

The Cynod out here rewriting history, gatekeeping sacred spaces, and gaslighting the entire population. Real “destroy the archives, rename the gods, hope nobody notices” energy. Meanwhile every secret whispered in Kuxtal Academy feels like a love letter to the ancestors who had their stories stolen.

Mira, Koa, Sienna, and Wren? Oh they’re BUSY-busy.
New magics. New allies. New ops. New enemies. And enough steam to fog up my Kindle screen.

And they’re STILL in school?? Babe, how are you overthrowing governments and worrying about midterms? I would simply drop out.

The alternating POVs (plus the NEW ones 👀) had me locked in like my life depended on it, and the action level? Absolutely feral compared to Book 1.

Yes, they hit us with another cliffhanger. Yes, I screamed.
And YES, this multiverse/crossover tease is eating me alive.

This book isn’t even out yet and I’m already pacing in tiny circles waiting for Book 3. 💀✨

Things to know
Sister’s best friend, Morally grey MMC’s, Academy setting, Multi POV, Forbidden romance, Fated mates, Mayan mythology, Unique magic system, Diverse characters

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kuxtal Academy: The First Spark by Nelle Nikole and Mikayla Hornedo is book two in The Kuxtal Academy series. I quite enjoyed the first book when I read it so I was highly looking forward to this one as well. Even though it did take me a bit to get back into the world; once I did though the book did not disappoint in the slightest. Also no worries as there are no spoilers in this review. The highlight that continues to be forefront is the characters and the story that is inspired by Mayan mythology. I’m really enjoying reading these characters come into their powers and everything that is going along with it. I also really liked more POV’s of them as well. What really kept my attention was how well the issues, feelings and situations were done; it came across so well that it felt like I could feel the emotions of the characters. So needless to say I went on an emotional rollercoaster. I thought the book was very well written and the authors did a fantastic job having the plot steady and interesting. I’m also really liking the romance and everything that is happening. That ending was so good and I find myself eager for the next book already. If you’re a fan of fantasy, magic, great characters then this is a series for you. Two thumbs up.

5 out of 5 stars

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a full 5-star read for me. The magic system & the world are incredibly unique, to the point where there is a LOT to take in, but in the best way. It feels fresh, imaginative, & genuinely different from anything else I’ve read in this genre.

Now, I can’t remember if the same is for the first book as it’s been a good while since I read it, but I have to give massive credit for the Kindle formatting, because whoever set this up absolutely nailed it. Every time one of the many unique magic types is mentioned, the word is linked so you can press & hold it & instantly see a short glossary description pop up. I’ve never seen this done before & it is such a brilliant idea. It makes following the story so much easier without breaking immersion, & saves you from constantly bookmarking your page, flipping back to the glossary, then trying to find your place again… only to have another magic term appear two lines later.

This book clearly puts real thought into the reader experience as well as the story itself. Between the creative world building, the distinctive magic system, & the genuinely reader-friendly design, this series stands out in the best possible way. Such a clever, well-executed sequel in the series, looking forward to the next book!!

[Kristina Turple · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Nelle and Mikayla did it again! From the very first page, I was completely hooked. After the cliffhanger in book one, I’ve been counting down the days to find out what happens next and The First Spark did not disappoint.

If it’s even possible, my love for Sienna and Mira grew even more in this book. Wren has officially secured his spot as one of my top book boyfriends, and I just want to wrap Koa up in the biggest hug. 🥹 Absolutely loved seeing the relationship with Katia grow and become more involved.

One of the things I love most about this series is the incredible diversity. They have created a world that actually feels real and inclusive, in this book especially, we get to see a world full of different cultures, backgrounds, and personalities. It’s so refreshing to see representation done in a way that feels natural and celebrated, not forced. Every character shines in their own unique way, and it makes Kuxtal Academy feel that much more alive.

This world Nelle and Mikayla have created is full of heart, danger, friendship, spice 🔥 and of course magic… it just keeps getting better. Do yourself a favor and dive into Kuxtal Academy. You’ll be obsessed too!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Gods!!!! Nelle told me I’d want to scream at her and Mikayla by the time I finished this book, and boy was she right! I am still staring into the void trying to process everything that happened as I try my darnedest to make this review spoiler-free. I don’t think I have enough words for how absolutely EPIC this book was. First of all, if you’re looking for flawlessly done dark academia crossed with political intrigue to the max and some dystopian rebellion tossed in, then you need to look to no further. This is the blueprint. There were so many loose ends tied up from the first book in this but also so many brand new questions and threads and information that had me tapping the pages at lightning speed. And guys, in case you forgot — we get FOUR POVs in this and each one if so pertinent and unique to the story line as it progresses. And while this was very much plot driven, there was still time for allllll the spice woven throughout. While I attempt to pick my jaw off the floor and slow down my racing heart, do yourself a favor and go preorder this book, and pick up book one now if you haven’t. Absolutely phenomenal!

[Bianca Newby · Rating 5 out of 5]

This picks up right where book 1 ended and the authors, Nelle Nikole and Mikayla D. Hornedo, brought it yet again! New characters are introduced, we gain another POV, the world expands, more lore is told, and the ending will have you screaming! Nelle and Mikayla have a knack for world building, magic systems, and characters that you will fall in love with (and hate). The book is so cohesive that it does not feel like there are two different authors writing this story.

Just like with Kuxtal Academy: The Beginning, I loved my time with the characters and world. Yes there is one massive plot going on, but at the same time are characters have to go to school and deal with politics. I think the balance is done well. It may seem long to some, but to me I love it. I enjoy seeing the characters in their everyday lives outside of the intensity of the story.

I highly recommend this series if you love fantasy, academia, expansive worlds, diverse characters, unique magic systems, and plot twists you don't see coming. Oh and of course, spice.

I wish I could say more, but I don't want to spoil anything. Just know that I am a fan fan of both Nelle and Mikayla.

[Tahera Thelwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well, all I can say is that Mikayla and Nelle did it again! The plot got thickerrr, the spice got spicier and the fun got funner😭. The little situation w my man, aka Wren Ikari, in the first half had me in shambles cuz like WYM MY MAN??? HELLO!?!?

Sienna discovering her past actually had me dumbfounded. I guessed it but it still threw me for a loop. Mira getting in touch w her Nahual was fun to read Watching her tap into her magic and learning just how powerful she was so wholesome as well as watching her and Wren's relationship bloom into something beautiful (and hot asf)

Sienna and Koa's bond was challenged but they fought through and i loved that sn bcz idk what i would do if they split😭😭. I have many things to scream about but chapter 53 and that cliffhanger?? HELLO!?!?!?!? THE SCREAM I SCROMEDDDDDDDDD. I need book 3 now, the suspense is eating me alive! i love it!

if you have not read book 1 of Kuxtal Academy and you love fantasy, what exactly are you waiting for? nothing! GO GRAB THIS AMAZING SERIES!

[Nini · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got an arc, but my rating/review are my own!


omg omg omggg 😮😮😮
the last chapter??? WHAT THE HELL!!!! my favourites are coming!! and I cannot waitttt🤧🤧🤧

I need more of our fated mates 🤧🤧🤧

quotes:
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𝕿𝖍𝖊𝖞 𝖘𝖆𝖎𝖉 𝖒𝖆𝖙𝖊𝖘 𝖜𝖊𝖗𝖊 𝖙𝖊𝖗𝖗𝖎𝖙𝖔𝖗𝖎𝖆𝖑, 𝖆𝖓𝖉 𝖋𝖚𝖈𝖐, 𝖙𝖍𝖊𝖞 𝖜𝖊𝖗𝖊 𝖗𝖎𝖌𝖍𝖙 (as they shoulddd🤭🤭)
••
“𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓲𝓼 𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓻𝓮𝓰𝓻𝓮𝓽 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓱𝓪𝓿𝓮?”
“𝓐 𝓻𝓮𝓰𝓻𝓮𝓽? 𝓤𝓶…
𝓣𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝔀𝓪𝓼 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓰𝓲𝓻𝓵 𝓪𝓽 𝓶𝔂 𝓹𝓻𝓮𝓹 𝓼𝓬𝓱𝓸𝓸𝓵 𝓘 𝓾𝓼𝓮𝓭 𝓽𝓸 𝓽𝓪𝓵𝓴 𝓽𝓸 𝓪 𝓵𝓸𝓽. 𝓦𝓮 𝓯𝓵𝓲𝓻𝓽𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓱𝓾𝓷𝓰 𝓸𝓾𝓽 𝓪 𝓬𝓸𝓾𝓹𝓵𝓮 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮𝓼, 𝓫𝓾𝓽 𝓲𝓽 𝔀𝓪𝓼 𝓪𝓻𝓸𝓾𝓷𝓭 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓼𝓪𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝓘 𝓶𝓮𝓽 𝓕𝓸𝓻𝓻𝓮𝓼𝓽. 𝓘 𝓮𝓷𝓭𝓮𝓭 𝓾𝓹 𝓭𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓱𝓲𝓶, 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓼𝓱𝓮 𝓮𝓷𝓭𝓮𝓭 𝓾𝓹 𝓭𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓼𝓸𝓶𝓮𝓸𝓷𝓮 𝓮𝓵𝓼𝓮. 𝓘 𝔀𝓲𝓼𝓱 𝓘 𝓱𝓪𝓭 𝓮𝔁𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓻𝓮𝓭 𝓶𝓸𝓻𝓮 𝔀𝓲𝓽𝓱 𝓱𝓮𝓻.”
“𝓨𝓸𝓾 𝓶𝓮𝓪𝓷 𝓼𝓮𝔁𝓾𝓪𝓵𝓵𝔂?”
“𝓤𝓶, 𝔂𝓮𝓪𝓱,”
“𝓓𝓸 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓼𝓽𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓽𝓸?”
“𝓨𝓮𝓪𝓱, 𝓘’𝓭 𝓼𝓽𝓲𝓵𝓵 𝔀𝓪𝓷𝓽 𝓽𝓸,”
omgggg yesss🤭👀
••
“𝕭𝖎𝖙𝖊 𝖒𝖊, 𝖘𝖓𝖆𝖐𝖊.”
‘𝕿𝖆𝖐𝖊 𝖞𝖔𝖚𝖗 𝖕𝖆𝖓𝖙𝖎𝖊𝖘 𝖔𝖋𝖋,’
“𝕿𝖍𝖔𝖘𝖊 𝖜𝖊𝖗𝖊 𝖒𝖞 𝖋𝖆𝖛𝖔𝖗𝖎𝖙𝖊,”
‘𝕱𝖔𝖈𝖚𝖘. 𝕰𝖞𝖊𝖘 𝖔𝖓 𝖒𝖊, 𝖁𝖊𝖓𝖔𝖒.
𝕱𝖚𝖈𝖐, 𝖁𝖊𝖓𝖔𝖒. 𝖄𝖔𝖚’𝖗𝖊 𝖌𝖔𝖓𝖓𝖆 𝖇𝖊 𝖙𝖍𝖊 𝖌𝖔𝖉𝖘𝖉𝖆𝖒𝖓 𝖉𝖊𝖆𝖙𝖍 𝖔𝖋 𝖒𝖊.’
••


tropes:
☆🍁urban fantasy romance
☆🍁Mayan mythology
☆🍁academy setting
☆🍁brother/sister duo-pov
☆🍁betrayals
☆🍁forbidden love
☆🍁fated mates
☆🍁arranged marriage

[Live2readbookluva · Rating 4 out of 5]

The First Spark is an epic urban fantasy & she is a thicccc one but well worth the adventure of reading. This is book 2 in the. Kuxtal Academy series and it picks up where the first leaves off. It takes Mira, Koa, and friends on a heck of a journey and features twists and betrayal that you won't see coming. If you are a lover of fantasy and dark academia with bada** characters, angsty plots, and well developed storylines with strong world building, magic and indigenous rituals, then make sure to add this to the tbr. This is not my normal genre of books, and I purposefully selected it to adventure out of my comfort zone. I have been very happy with this decision because this has been such a great series to explore.

✨Themes & Tropes:✨

💚Dark Academia vibes
🤎Magic Rituals
🤍Forbidden Love
💚Political Intrigue
🤎Fated Mates
🤍Betrayal
💚Anxiety/ Dyslexia Representation

Overall, liked this read!

[What Quetta’s Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to authors Nelle Nikole and Mikayla D. Hornedo for the gifted eARC. These are my honest and personal thoughts.

Thoughts: I need book 3 NOW!!!!! Seriously after reading book one I didn’t think it could get better but it absolutely did! Seeing everything build on top of what we already knew just sucks you right in! This series literally has everything I love, from magical schools, shifters, found family to the steamy romance! And they are actually going to class and learning in the mist of all the chaos lol!! I loved that with this installment we got to see so much character growth in our core 4 (Mira, Koa, Sienna and Wren) Mira and Sienna are so bad ass, and our girl Katia!! I’m so attached to these characters that when Sienna was sad about Koa’s SITUATION I felt my own heart hurting, while also getting a laugh at the use of a scantron for a test lol. The ending had my heart pounding with suspense and I need more like yesterday! 10/10 definitely recommend!!

[DevBev · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nelle and Mikayla did it again!!! These two, literally, never disappoint!! (And thank you, so much, for the ARC🤗)
This series is everything you want from a Romantasy; wonderfully complex world building, a masterfully intricate magic system, morally grey characters fighting oppressive systems and breaking toxic generational cycles, a whole bunch of villains and very messy and dangerous situations, lots of very real and raw banter, tension and romantic development, and of course, some deliciously spicy scenes! This book continues to deliver all of this, picking up right where they left off, and I have, somehow, fallen in love with the four main characters even more! They leave us with another cliffhanger ending, but I am very excited and intrigued to see where this multiverse/crossover goes!
This book isn’t even released yet and I am already anxiously awaiting book 3!!! 🤣🤣😭😭

[Ashley (andtheniwasbookish) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really great continuation of Book 1 with an ending that packs a punch!

What I enjoyed about this story, the plot and its characters is how everything developed fluidly. Nothing felt sudden, character arcs didn't catch me off guard. Yes, of course there were twists and turns along the way, but I appreciated that our characters stayed true to who they were even after the hoops they were having to jump through.

We got 4 POVs in this book and I loved every second. I could live in Wren's POV all day. He is the biggest mush for Mira in such a real way that I could never get enough of it. Very similar story with Koa, though in addition to his mushiness, we also got to see more of his strategy while navigating a seemingly lose/lose scenario.

I'm excited to see the continuation of this story, especially after THAT ending!

overall: recommend
spice: open door

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The gasps I gasped. The screams I scrumpt. Nelle and Mikayla took an already incredible story and added so many new layers, twists and turns on to it that I was utterly FLABBERGASTED when I reached the end at the ultimate twist.

We are HERE for that kind of wrench in the works. Truly. Especially when it's pulled off with this kind of skill and finesse.

The continuing story of Mira, Koa, Sienna, and Wren ramps up with rebellion, new magics, new friends, new enemies, new allies, and whole lot more steamy moments to keep the pages turning quickly and furiously.

And they're STILL IN SCHOOL. Like, who has time for all these politics, intrigue, and rebellion when there's still classes and exams to take? I could never.

I cannot wait to see what happens as they continue on in their journeys because ... that ending? Give me mooooore!

[Courtney Strong · Rating 4 out of 5]

My biggest ask: PLEASE consider adding in recaps because my gnat brain was so lost starting this 😂

It took me a little bit to get back into the story but I loved having the new POVs! That scene with our bi queen Mira was 🥵 WOW. The relationship drama amidst the general conflict was very entertaining - I was rooting for my two couples! I also love Katia’s throuple, what a great addition.

Book 2 featured magic and school and mafia vibes and lots of family dynamics. We got to meet some new characters like Alanna, who I’m still pretty torn over if I hate her or not.

That ending? WOW. I did not see that coming at ALLLLL. It felt like reading those last few chapters of House of Sky and Breath - A MULTIVERSE?! WOWOWOW.

Very excited to see where book 3 takes us!!!

Thank you to Nelle and Mikayla for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Katie Flournoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magic, mayhem, and morally grey MCs. 😏

Fated mates, cosmic beings, prophecies, and a rebellion against a corrupt ruling system are just a few ways this book will grab the reader's attention. From start to finish, this book will have the reader at the edge of their seat! A riveting continuation of book one, Kuxtal Academy: The First Spark is a beautifully written, action-packed Mayan mythology inpired romantasy. With solid characters, stunning imagery and world-building, an intricate magic system, and a compelling plot, authors Mikayla D. Hornedo and Nelle Nikole have created an incredible sequel in the Kuxtal Academy Series. This book is an incredible read that features mental health rep, strong friendships, major character growth, and steamy spice. I had the privilege of receiving this an ARC, loved it, and look forward to reading what Hornedo and Nikole write next!

[Kaitlyn wentworth · Rating 5 out of 5]

whatever they put into this series needs to be studied.
Separate they are both literary geniuses. Together?
They're evil master minds! Good lord. I ate every second of this up. Resulting in both ladies receiving in real time voice notes of the end. Fantastic. Truly. Ten stars.
Sienna and Mira are hands down two of my favorite characters l've ever read. Sienna heals a part of me that was the poor kid growing up. I LOVE that she doesn't let that make her a victim or keep her down.
Mira. My sweet baby angel. I relate to her anxiety the most. But she doesn't let that hold her back. We have a mantra in our house that reminds me of her. "You can do hard things, even if you do it scared. " I love that for her.