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Institute Thirteen #2
Broken Dove
Freedom was supposed to be mine.
Instead, it made me a target.
My poisoned escape didn’t set me free, it dragged me straight back to the darkness.
I’ve spent my whole life clawing at the chains meant to bind me, convinced freedom was the answer. I was wrong. Liberation comes at a cost, and loyalty is easily repaid with betrayal. Now the past I tried to outrun is closing in, and survival demands more than stubborn hope.
I don’t understand everything about this supernatural world yet, but I refuse to be caged again.
That would be easier if The Sanctum weren’t watching my every move.
Or if I weren’t still bound to Kael.
Pulled toward Rion.
And dangerously captivated by Thorne.
Each connection tightens the noose.
Each promises nothing but ruin.
I need to stop looking back.
Freedom is no longer the goal.
Staying alive is.
Broken Dove is the explosive second book in the Institute 13 dark fantasy academy romance series. Perfect for readers who love ruthless magical institutions, powerful heroines pushed to their limits, and dangerous men whose bonds are as deadly as they are irresistible.
Enter The Vale.
But remember, escape always comes with a price.
Instead, it made me a target.
My poisoned escape didn’t set me free, it dragged me straight back to the darkness.
I’ve spent my whole life clawing at the chains meant to bind me, convinced freedom was the answer. I was wrong. Liberation comes at a cost, and loyalty is easily repaid with betrayal. Now the past I tried to outrun is closing in, and survival demands more than stubborn hope.
I don’t understand everything about this supernatural world yet, but I refuse to be caged again.
That would be easier if The Sanctum weren’t watching my every move.
Or if I weren’t still bound to Kael.
Pulled toward Rion.
And dangerously captivated by Thorne.
Each connection tightens the noose.
Each promises nothing but ruin.
I need to stop looking back.
Freedom is no longer the goal.
Staying alive is.
Broken Dove is the explosive second book in the Institute 13 dark fantasy academy romance series. Perfect for readers who love ruthless magical institutions, powerful heroines pushed to their limits, and dangerous men whose bonds are as deadly as they are irresistible.
Enter The Vale.
But remember, escape always comes with a price.
492 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2025
267 people are currently reading
106 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
December 5, 2025
I'd give this a 3.5. I do really like the story, but I really didn't feel like a lot happened and when something was happening, it seemed to take a very long time to get going. I am super delirious, though, so take this with a massive grain of salt since I just had metal carved into my face and read this book in one sitting instead of sleeping as my sleep-deprived brain needed.
I'd really like to see some growth from Elodie in the next book, both with her personality and with her powers. I really like her as a character and she has a lot of potential. I just want more from her.
I'm also kind of confused what half these dudes have going on in the background. Lettuce boy's brother? Bff's deceptions? Thorn's hot and cold personal issues? Rion seems to be figuring his life out, though.
I'd like a lot more people to be added to the torture dungeon with El's dad-type person. So many of these characters could used a good ol' smackerooski. Like Willow. She could use a punt right into the crotch. Preferably into the stratosphere.
I'd really like to see some growth from Elodie in the next book, both with her personality and with her powers. I really like her as a character and she has a lot of potential. I just want more from her.
I'm also kind of confused what half these dudes have going on in the background. Lettuce boy's brother? Bff's deceptions? Thorn's hot and cold personal issues? Rion seems to be figuring his life out, though.
I'd like a lot more people to be added to the torture dungeon with El's dad-type person. So many of these characters could used a good ol' smackerooski. Like Willow. She could use a punt right into the crotch. Preferably into the stratosphere.
November 29, 2025
Elodie, Kael, Rion, + Thorne
-mfmm whychoose
-dark pnr institute
-vampire, wolf, shadow fae
-forbidden magic
-secrets
-book 2 in a series
we still have some secrets here...but we always discovered some vital info while also getting some HAWTTTT feelings hehehe so lets keep that a goingggg!!
-mfmm whychoose
-dark pnr institute
-vampire, wolf, shadow fae
-forbidden magic
-secrets
-book 2 in a series
we still have some secrets here...but we always discovered some vital info while also getting some HAWTTTT feelings hehehe so lets keep that a goingggg!!
December 14, 2025
Uhhhh idk about this one. I do wanna stay for the full group dynamics to finalize and the cliff hanger resolution but I’m also mostly over this series already and I feel like nothing has happened and the characters have weird personalities and interactions
December 24, 2025
3.5 stars. Still confused. Abrupt ending
I don’t understand ANYTHING in this book. I keep reading for the “romance”. Elodie is in institute thirteen bc she killed someone. But it’s never been explained how you get into other institutes, or what their purpose is unless it’s to separate supernaturals from humans. The rebellion *shrug* does what? They are rebelling from The Sanctum having complete control but we don’t even understand that. The Vale and institutes seem to be some sort of prison but the world is not explained well enough. They can still shop, have access to money and all that but they aren’t allowed to leave? We know it’s a pocket dimension. But what’s all this about? None of it makes sense. The fact that everyone seems to know more than Elodie is weird.
Then The Sanctum introduces the Institute Games. Here’s the thing why are Elodie and the others in institute thirteen if these competitions encourage carnage and death? It would seem like they don’t care about murder.
The men are hot and cold. Kael is hot and cold but I suspect she’s a mate to them all but things aren’t explicitly said. And I have no idea.
Walker who tf is he? I can’t believe what he did this book. But also we DO learn more about Elodie and her origins but not much.
All of this is so confusing but I keep reading which is why it isn’t a lower rating.
The book though ends abruptly when things are finally going down. It’s annoying bc we just do mundane crap. And don’t learn enough imo.
I hate the ending but I’m also wondering if Kael was in on it.
I don’t understand ANYTHING in this book. I keep reading for the “romance”. Elodie is in institute thirteen bc she killed someone. But it’s never been explained how you get into other institutes, or what their purpose is unless it’s to separate supernaturals from humans. The rebellion *shrug* does what? They are rebelling from The Sanctum having complete control but we don’t even understand that. The Vale and institutes seem to be some sort of prison but the world is not explained well enough. They can still shop, have access to money and all that but they aren’t allowed to leave? We know it’s a pocket dimension. But what’s all this about? None of it makes sense. The fact that everyone seems to know more than Elodie is weird.
Then The Sanctum introduces the Institute Games. Here’s the thing why are Elodie and the others in institute thirteen if these competitions encourage carnage and death? It would seem like they don’t care about murder.
The men are hot and cold. Kael is hot and cold but I suspect she’s a mate to them all but things aren’t explicitly said. And I have no idea.
Walker who tf is he? I can’t believe what he did this book. But also we DO learn more about Elodie and her origins but not much.
All of this is so confusing but I keep reading which is why it isn’t a lower rating.
The book though ends abruptly when things are finally going down. It’s annoying bc we just do mundane crap. And don’t learn enough imo.
I hate the ending but I’m also wondering if Kael was in on it.
December 2, 2025
I was excited for this book after the way book 1 ended and ready to see how Elodie would react to Walker and actually I appreciated the brief interaction and how she really started to finally accept her fate of being there. It gave her that sense of closure and heartache that she needed and a drive to finally learn about her powers and new world.
This book really focused more on building the connections and relationships with Kael, Rion and Thorn. I love Ocean’s character and that she’s that friend who is not only helping Elodie but supporting her as well. Ocean finally feeling safe enough to open up about why she is in thirteen and know Elodie wouldn’t care was nice. I liked that there was more of the guys pov’s, only thing was that I was saddened Thorn didn’t have a chapter but I have a few ideas about him and I just know he will play a pivotal role in the next 2 books. It was great to finally touching more on the Rion and Professor Drayker backstory, and it was also so sad reading it. Kael is still a wildcard but I began to like him when I read more of his pov, the way he tries to protect Elodie and yet keep his uncaring and unfeeling personality for her is fun to read.
I always know that KC is the cliffhanger queen but seriously when I say I did not expect that ending, I DID NOT EXPECT THAT ENDING! I went from liking Kael to being mad at him in less than a chapter. I mean that was a crazy plot twist and yet I understand it’s his brother so of course that loyalty is to him first and not Elodie. Roll on book 3 because this series is getting good.
This book really focused more on building the connections and relationships with Kael, Rion and Thorn. I love Ocean’s character and that she’s that friend who is not only helping Elodie but supporting her as well. Ocean finally feeling safe enough to open up about why she is in thirteen and know Elodie wouldn’t care was nice. I liked that there was more of the guys pov’s, only thing was that I was saddened Thorn didn’t have a chapter but I have a few ideas about him and I just know he will play a pivotal role in the next 2 books. It was great to finally touching more on the Rion and Professor Drayker backstory, and it was also so sad reading it. Kael is still a wildcard but I began to like him when I read more of his pov, the way he tries to protect Elodie and yet keep his uncaring and unfeeling personality for her is fun to read.
I always know that KC is the cliffhanger queen but seriously when I say I did not expect that ending, I DID NOT EXPECT THAT ENDING! I went from liking Kael to being mad at him in less than a chapter. I mean that was a crazy plot twist and yet I understand it’s his brother so of course that loyalty is to him first and not Elodie. Roll on book 3 because this series is getting good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2025
Oh Dâmñ - why do I love cliffhangers so much!?! I find myself asking this question every time I end a KC Kean book. Because she is the Queen of cliffhangers!
Broken Dove was everything I knew it would be and more. Elodie is truly coming into her own, and I both love that and hate that for her. Since she has had to learn it the hard way. But to me one of the best things to come of her new found life is her bestie Ocean. I love the deep connection they have formed.
“Why do we have the jokes of a pubescent child?” I mutter, and she holds her hand in the air. “Trauma, baby,” she sings, and I grin.
Now the guys - wow 🤩 talk about hot for the wrong ones and trying to deny it. But when you have a vampire like Kael, a shadow walker like Thorne and a wolf like Rion how can you not say no to them.
“I didn't know I could be so good at sharing, and I don't know how long my team effort will last, but right now, the plan is to fuck him right out of you.”
What I'm mostly excited about is the ending of this book, and the possibility of what is yet to come for them all. I seriously loved this book & cannot wait for the next.
Broken Dove was everything I knew it would be and more. Elodie is truly coming into her own, and I both love that and hate that for her. Since she has had to learn it the hard way. But to me one of the best things to come of her new found life is her bestie Ocean. I love the deep connection they have formed.
“Why do we have the jokes of a pubescent child?” I mutter, and she holds her hand in the air. “Trauma, baby,” she sings, and I grin.
Now the guys - wow 🤩 talk about hot for the wrong ones and trying to deny it. But when you have a vampire like Kael, a shadow walker like Thorne and a wolf like Rion how can you not say no to them.
“I didn't know I could be so good at sharing, and I don't know how long my team effort will last, but right now, the plan is to fuck him right out of you.”
What I'm mostly excited about is the ending of this book, and the possibility of what is yet to come for them all. I seriously loved this book & cannot wait for the next.
December 15, 2025
I been eagerly awaiting this book, that cliffhanger ending from book one had me reeling.
I absolutely adore the was this author writes, the creativity in the storyline never fails to impress me. When I start to read any of her books I am thrown into the book world, the real world honestly fades away.
As this is book 2, there is no dramatic’thing’ that occurs, but we do find out a lot of vital information.
Elodie is stepping into her new life, with Ocean at her side, I love their banter.
The guys, they fascinate me. I still find them an intriguing group of friends.
I can’t wait to read book 3, all the breadcrumbs from this book and from the cliff hanger ending I just know it’s going to be fantastic
I absolutely adore the was this author writes, the creativity in the storyline never fails to impress me. When I start to read any of her books I am thrown into the book world, the real world honestly fades away.
As this is book 2, there is no dramatic’thing’ that occurs, but we do find out a lot of vital information.
Elodie is stepping into her new life, with Ocean at her side, I love their banter.
The guys, they fascinate me. I still find them an intriguing group of friends.
I can’t wait to read book 3, all the breadcrumbs from this book and from the cliff hanger ending I just know it’s going to be fantastic
January 6, 2026
Omg
Wait what???? Oh my God!!! This book was so freaking good I need more!!!! I can not wait to read the next one.
Wait what???? Oh my God!!! This book was so freaking good I need more!!!! I can not wait to read the next one.
December 24, 2025
Great book
Spoiler Alert! Don’t read further if you want to know what happened in this book.I really enjoyed this one. Elodie tried to escape at the end of the first book that failed spectacularly with a betrayal from the only person she thought of as a friend, Walker. She was sent to the Institute because she protected him, but as soon as she found him, he drove her back to Rion, Kael and Thorne at the Institute. After finding out Walker knew about her inactive Scythe powers and was sent to protect her. Lol. It’s laughable after reading about his lacking personality when he convinced her to play a trophy distraction at the poker game. He put her in that situation and had nothing to say her when she saw him again. Was he really her friend? Sure, he helped protect her from being physically abused by her apparently non biological father and mother. Reading this second book, just highlighted all the crappy situations he put Elodie in. So basically this book was about her resigning herself to the situation she’s in. There’s no getting out, so she actually puts in effort in school. Willow is still after her, Kaels crazy ex who is also a vampire. Her mother is on the council, I think her name is Anya and she’s also been ordering Kael to pass information to them (Satan, Anya and Bianca? I can’t remember the other females name) on whether her powers appear. They want Elodie to be a weapon against the Rebels. Elodie puts it all together herself. Despite dropping out of high school, she’s actually very smart. She outsmarts Willow in several classes, while Willow announces to everyone multiple times how useless she is as she doesn’t have “powers”. Little do they know, she does, it’s just that Thorne makes everyone forget what happened when Elodie drains the bullies magic and health. It usually happens during “strenuous” (aka physical education and defense). Usually in professor Draykers class, she was the guardian of Rion because they are both wolf shifters. She seduced him as he was young, and didn’t know any better just after his father threw him away, so his confidence was also low. She basically trained him in the art of pleasure, never reciprocating with him as we learn throughout the book. He can’t get enough of Elodie, nor can she get enough of him too. Drayker is extremely jealous. Rion broke it off with her because his wolf is claiming Elodie as his. Drayker goes off the deep end in classes, allowing Willow to physically assault Elodie during class, knowing Rion would lose it, so Drayker can order detention. In detention, Drayker sexually assaults him. He can’t even get hard, thank god Elodie showed up with Kael to stop the assault. I loved how they got back at Drayker by ordering from her office while Karl and Rion tag team Elodie on Draykers desk.
It was hard to read, but I’m glad KC put this in the story because men get physically abused too, it’s just not as widely talked about. Men feel just as much as women and they deserve justice too.
So, the first book started with Willow, Kaels ex to start bullying Elodie, then this book it was both Drayker and Willow. Elodie, I’m not sure how I feel about her, I like her more in this book, but she still feels akward when she needs to “process” information. She accepts so much, and basically rolls with it a lot of the time but when it comes to the guys, she’s a completely brat, and a bit of an asshole. (Not in a good way). We can tell how obsessed Kael and Ripn are with her. They show so much more positive attention on her and she’s still acting like they treat her like crap. The first book, about 70% of it is of them being bossy, without any information of why she has to obey them. The last 20% of this book, finally has her acting like a normal person, responding to the guys without any mean hearted snarks/sassiness. Elodie needs all the help she can get when the council as!holes want to use her as the ultimate weapon against the rebels, so all the training, and trials they all go through in this book, helps her prepare for she sh!t really hits the fan. Ocean, her roommate was the perfect addition to Elodie storyline. Defined as psychotic, when in reality, she’s the best friend Elodie has ever had. Then there’s Thorne. Hot and cold. He heals Elodie several times, but always had a cutting remark to make her run. He takes Elodie out in her second favorite car, to the beach. She basically takes down 90% of the rebels who show up out of no where, then allowing her to drive back. He finally explains his reticence to get close to her because Scythes killed his entire family. So the reader knows from his point of views, how his magic just wants to touch her, surround her in its comforting embrace, while his mind rebels. I beleive Thorne will be added to the ménage trios in the next book. His walls are slowly coming down. I wonder once he surrenders to his infatuation if there will be an unexpected mate bond and how that would play out with the council wanting to use Elodie.
Spoiler Alert! Don’t read further if you want to know what happened in this book.I really enjoyed this one. Elodie tried to escape at the end of the first book that failed spectacularly with a betrayal from the only person she thought of as a friend, Walker. She was sent to the Institute because she protected him, but as soon as she found him, he drove her back to Rion, Kael and Thorne at the Institute. After finding out Walker knew about her inactive Scythe powers and was sent to protect her. Lol. It’s laughable after reading about his lacking personality when he convinced her to play a trophy distraction at the poker game. He put her in that situation and had nothing to say her when she saw him again. Was he really her friend? Sure, he helped protect her from being physically abused by her apparently non biological father and mother. Reading this second book, just highlighted all the crappy situations he put Elodie in. So basically this book was about her resigning herself to the situation she’s in. There’s no getting out, so she actually puts in effort in school. Willow is still after her, Kaels crazy ex who is also a vampire. Her mother is on the council, I think her name is Anya and she’s also been ordering Kael to pass information to them (Satan, Anya and Bianca? I can’t remember the other females name) on whether her powers appear. They want Elodie to be a weapon against the Rebels. Elodie puts it all together herself. Despite dropping out of high school, she’s actually very smart. She outsmarts Willow in several classes, while Willow announces to everyone multiple times how useless she is as she doesn’t have “powers”. Little do they know, she does, it’s just that Thorne makes everyone forget what happened when Elodie drains the bullies magic and health. It usually happens during “strenuous” (aka physical education and defense). Usually in professor Draykers class, she was the guardian of Rion because they are both wolf shifters. She seduced him as he was young, and didn’t know any better just after his father threw him away, so his confidence was also low. She basically trained him in the art of pleasure, never reciprocating with him as we learn throughout the book. He can’t get enough of Elodie, nor can she get enough of him too. Drayker is extremely jealous. Rion broke it off with her because his wolf is claiming Elodie as his. Drayker goes off the deep end in classes, allowing Willow to physically assault Elodie during class, knowing Rion would lose it, so Drayker can order detention. In detention, Drayker sexually assaults him. He can’t even get hard, thank god Elodie showed up with Kael to stop the assault. I loved how they got back at Drayker by ordering from her office while Karl and Rion tag team Elodie on Draykers desk.
It was hard to read, but I’m glad KC put this in the story because men get physically abused too, it’s just not as widely talked about. Men feel just as much as women and they deserve justice too.
So, the first book started with Willow, Kaels ex to start bullying Elodie, then this book it was both Drayker and Willow. Elodie, I’m not sure how I feel about her, I like her more in this book, but she still feels akward when she needs to “process” information. She accepts so much, and basically rolls with it a lot of the time but when it comes to the guys, she’s a completely brat, and a bit of an asshole. (Not in a good way). We can tell how obsessed Kael and Ripn are with her. They show so much more positive attention on her and she’s still acting like they treat her like crap. The first book, about 70% of it is of them being bossy, without any information of why she has to obey them. The last 20% of this book, finally has her acting like a normal person, responding to the guys without any mean hearted snarks/sassiness. Elodie needs all the help she can get when the council as!holes want to use her as the ultimate weapon against the rebels, so all the training, and trials they all go through in this book, helps her prepare for she sh!t really hits the fan. Ocean, her roommate was the perfect addition to Elodie storyline. Defined as psychotic, when in reality, she’s the best friend Elodie has ever had. Then there’s Thorne. Hot and cold. He heals Elodie several times, but always had a cutting remark to make her run. He takes Elodie out in her second favorite car, to the beach. She basically takes down 90% of the rebels who show up out of no where, then allowing her to drive back. He finally explains his reticence to get close to her because Scythes killed his entire family. So the reader knows from his point of views, how his magic just wants to touch her, surround her in its comforting embrace, while his mind rebels. I beleive Thorne will be added to the ménage trios in the next book. His walls are slowly coming down. I wonder once he surrenders to his infatuation if there will be an unexpected mate bond and how that would play out with the council wanting to use Elodie.
December 19, 2025
Book two of the Institute Thirteen series takes off with a bang and is nonstop action from start to finish. I read this in a single day because I just could not put this down.
Eloise is figuring out more of her new world and her place in it. Fighting to hold back her power to keep attention off of herself becomes more and more difficult. Her roommate, Ocean, is the one person she can trust with enemies all around and finds that having a friend who knows the system has its benefits. I really love Ocean’s character. She is loyal to a fault and sharp as a tack. She is the best kind of friend. Eloise is finding her confidence and is becoming quite the baddie.
Rion is fully obsessed with Eloise. She has become his muse. He is a golden retriever on steroids, but it is sweet as much as it is spicy. He continues to prove himself to her and she starts to finally see he has her best interest at heart.
Kael is equally obsessed, but continues to try and remain aloof and unaffected. Unfortunately for him, his effort is wasted because he cannot resist the pull he feels toward her. The heat with these two is off the charts.
And then there is Thorne. The shadow fae manages to keep his mysterious vibe through this book. I just want to know what he is all about and what is going through his head, but that is the draw to his character. I wanted more, so the pages kept turning.
I would love to share more, but there are so many twists and turns, so any little clue may give away the plot and ruin it for someone. And I want you to experience it all firsthand.
In true KC Kean fashion, this book ends in a whopper of a cliffhanger, so waiting for the next book is like slow torture. But somehow it is totally worth it to get to the next book. If you start now you can be through the first two books before book 3 comes out. Do not hesitate to pick these up.
A big thank you to KC Kean for the advanced copy to read and review. I enjoyed every minute of reading this.
Eloise is figuring out more of her new world and her place in it. Fighting to hold back her power to keep attention off of herself becomes more and more difficult. Her roommate, Ocean, is the one person she can trust with enemies all around and finds that having a friend who knows the system has its benefits. I really love Ocean’s character. She is loyal to a fault and sharp as a tack. She is the best kind of friend. Eloise is finding her confidence and is becoming quite the baddie.
Rion is fully obsessed with Eloise. She has become his muse. He is a golden retriever on steroids, but it is sweet as much as it is spicy. He continues to prove himself to her and she starts to finally see he has her best interest at heart.
Kael is equally obsessed, but continues to try and remain aloof and unaffected. Unfortunately for him, his effort is wasted because he cannot resist the pull he feels toward her. The heat with these two is off the charts.
And then there is Thorne. The shadow fae manages to keep his mysterious vibe through this book. I just want to know what he is all about and what is going through his head, but that is the draw to his character. I wanted more, so the pages kept turning.
I would love to share more, but there are so many twists and turns, so any little clue may give away the plot and ruin it for someone. And I want you to experience it all firsthand.
In true KC Kean fashion, this book ends in a whopper of a cliffhanger, so waiting for the next book is like slow torture. But somehow it is totally worth it to get to the next book. If you start now you can be through the first two books before book 3 comes out. Do not hesitate to pick these up.
A big thank you to KC Kean for the advanced copy to read and review. I enjoyed every minute of reading this.
December 12, 2025
I need the next book like I need air. This author is my absolute favourite, and she proves why every single time. She creates worlds so vivid and characters so addictive that I’m completely drawn in the moment I start reading. And that cliffhanger? Utterly savage. I just sat there staring at my Kindle, wondering how I’m supposed to cope until the next instalment.
I’ve fallen hard for a certain Shadow Prince, but honestly, each of her men brings something different that keeps me hooked. Rion’s intensity, Kael’s quiet protectiveness, and the others with their own hidden layers—I genuinely can’t pick a favourite because it changes constantly. The spice definitely went up a level in this book, and I enjoyed every minute of it. And Ocean? I love the friendship she’s building with Elodie. She really encourages Elodie to step into who she’s meant to be.
This book opens the world up even more, and the tension is on another level. Elodie is finally realising who actually has her best interests at heart, and I felt every moment of her confusion and determination. Thankfully she still has Ocean and her trio of complicated, captivating men—even if they all show their loyalty and interest in very different ways. There were sweet moments, heated ones, and a few scenes that had me gripping my Kindle in disbelief.
The deeper look into the Institutes and the Games added so much danger and intrigue. Some parts were slower and simmering, others absolutely full of drama, and all of it kept me turning the pages. And the ending? I’m still not over it.
She truly is the queen of cliffhangers, and I’m completely obsessed with Elodie’s journey. I can’t wait for the next book—it’s going to feel like the longest wait ever.
I’ve fallen hard for a certain Shadow Prince, but honestly, each of her men brings something different that keeps me hooked. Rion’s intensity, Kael’s quiet protectiveness, and the others with their own hidden layers—I genuinely can’t pick a favourite because it changes constantly. The spice definitely went up a level in this book, and I enjoyed every minute of it. And Ocean? I love the friendship she’s building with Elodie. She really encourages Elodie to step into who she’s meant to be.
This book opens the world up even more, and the tension is on another level. Elodie is finally realising who actually has her best interests at heart, and I felt every moment of her confusion and determination. Thankfully she still has Ocean and her trio of complicated, captivating men—even if they all show their loyalty and interest in very different ways. There were sweet moments, heated ones, and a few scenes that had me gripping my Kindle in disbelief.
The deeper look into the Institutes and the Games added so much danger and intrigue. Some parts were slower and simmering, others absolutely full of drama, and all of it kept me turning the pages. And the ending? I’m still not over it.
She truly is the queen of cliffhangers, and I’m completely obsessed with Elodie’s journey. I can’t wait for the next book—it’s going to feel like the longest wait ever.
December 11, 2025
good
WARNING! Cliffhanger! This one rates probably a 5/5 on the trauma scale and will have you screaming for more!
Picking up from where book 1 left off in betrayal, we find Elodie being returned to the Vale, and discovering that a good portion of her life is a lie.
While she becomes even more romantically entangled with the three males across the hall, she also finds herself embroiled in a the Institute Games, where each of the thirteen institutes are pitted against each other in an attempt to gain freedom from the Vale. With no way to control her power, or practise it at all, Elodie is a severe disadvantage, especially since a number of people are gunning for her!
This is a spicy trip back to the institute, with a lot of steamy scenes, a few revelations, and a dose or two more of betrayal. Elodie has finally woken up to the need to educate herself on the beings of the magical world, but she still has a long road to travel.
A couple of new and rather intriguing storylines are introduced in this one; one involving her past that is really no surprise to us, and another involving something else that does have its own surprises. Either way, it’s enough to make me wonder just what will happen next, and may have resulted in a “what?” screech when the book ended!
All in all, an enjoyable fantasy read, with lots of spice and a hint of mystery, than fans of Rh academy and RH fantasy will enjoy.
WARNING! Cliffhanger! This one rates probably a 5/5 on the trauma scale and will have you screaming for more!
Picking up from where book 1 left off in betrayal, we find Elodie being returned to the Vale, and discovering that a good portion of her life is a lie.
While she becomes even more romantically entangled with the three males across the hall, she also finds herself embroiled in a the Institute Games, where each of the thirteen institutes are pitted against each other in an attempt to gain freedom from the Vale. With no way to control her power, or practise it at all, Elodie is a severe disadvantage, especially since a number of people are gunning for her!
This is a spicy trip back to the institute, with a lot of steamy scenes, a few revelations, and a dose or two more of betrayal. Elodie has finally woken up to the need to educate herself on the beings of the magical world, but she still has a long road to travel.
A couple of new and rather intriguing storylines are introduced in this one; one involving her past that is really no surprise to us, and another involving something else that does have its own surprises. Either way, it’s enough to make me wonder just what will happen next, and may have resulted in a “what?” screech when the book ended!
All in all, an enjoyable fantasy read, with lots of spice and a hint of mystery, than fans of Rh academy and RH fantasy will enjoy.
December 7, 2025
*Reverse Harem
*Paranormal
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Prison/Academy
*’Thought she was human’
*Touch her and 💀
*Morally grey men
*Insta-Attraction
*Mixed supe harem
*Established harem (3)
*Fast Burn
*Book 2 / 4
Who to trust?!!
Well this one definitely opens up more questions 😱 poor Elodie really begins to question who she has around her and who truly has her best interests at heart 🥺 she’s shaken and realises she really might have to work at making the most of Institute 13 for her own survival 😳 thankfully she has Ocean and the three guys who’ve become her steadfast companions, although to differing degrees 😅 their fascination with Elodie certainly expresses itself in different ways 😍 this book really focuses on the developing connection between Rion, Kael and Thorn - two of them are far more accepting of the pull between our leading lady and their monsters whilst one is still fighting in his own way…. There’s some definite sweet moments as well as seriously hot ones 🌶️🔥
The plot also brings more insight into the wider worlds of the institutes with the Games and the danger they bring 😳 especially as it appears there may be some outside influences out to get our girl! At times it was a little slower paced but others had plenty of drama/action to keep you going, and the oh my gosh that cliffhanger to round it off! 😱😱
*Paranormal
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Prison/Academy
*’Thought she was human’
*Touch her and 💀
*Morally grey men
*Insta-Attraction
*Mixed supe harem
*Established harem (3)
*Fast Burn
*Book 2 / 4
Who to trust?!!
Well this one definitely opens up more questions 😱 poor Elodie really begins to question who she has around her and who truly has her best interests at heart 🥺 she’s shaken and realises she really might have to work at making the most of Institute 13 for her own survival 😳 thankfully she has Ocean and the three guys who’ve become her steadfast companions, although to differing degrees 😅 their fascination with Elodie certainly expresses itself in different ways 😍 this book really focuses on the developing connection between Rion, Kael and Thorn - two of them are far more accepting of the pull between our leading lady and their monsters whilst one is still fighting in his own way…. There’s some definite sweet moments as well as seriously hot ones 🌶️🔥
The plot also brings more insight into the wider worlds of the institutes with the Games and the danger they bring 😳 especially as it appears there may be some outside influences out to get our girl! At times it was a little slower paced but others had plenty of drama/action to keep you going, and the oh my gosh that cliffhanger to round it off! 😱😱
December 10, 2025
Incredible!
OH MY!
I need the next book like I need oxygen. No matter what book I read from this author, she blows me away with the worlds she brings to life, the characters that have me falling for them and a storyline that lives rent free in my head. The cliffhangers are brut@l and leaves me wanting to throw my kindle and has me saying “what the fudge” for a solid hour after finishing. I’ve been in a bookhangover since devouring this book.
I have fell for a certain Shadow Prince h@rd, but I do love each of her men for different reasons. I love the way Rion is with her, and even how protective Kael is but behind the scenes. This book definitely goes up a knotch in spice and I LOVED each word of it. I am rooting for a certain someone to join, like he seems my kind of guy to a T. I love the friendship Elodie has built with Ocean and how much Ocean encourages Elodie to become the true her.
I have been struggling to read lately, and yet this book helped me get my jam back, and I loved it. It really is a phenomenal read and I can’t wait to see what comes next for Elodie and her men.
OH MY!
I need the next book like I need oxygen. No matter what book I read from this author, she blows me away with the worlds she brings to life, the characters that have me falling for them and a storyline that lives rent free in my head. The cliffhangers are brut@l and leaves me wanting to throw my kindle and has me saying “what the fudge” for a solid hour after finishing. I’ve been in a bookhangover since devouring this book.
I have fell for a certain Shadow Prince h@rd, but I do love each of her men for different reasons. I love the way Rion is with her, and even how protective Kael is but behind the scenes. This book definitely goes up a knotch in spice and I LOVED each word of it. I am rooting for a certain someone to join, like he seems my kind of guy to a T. I love the friendship Elodie has built with Ocean and how much Ocean encourages Elodie to become the true her.
I have been struggling to read lately, and yet this book helped me get my jam back, and I loved it. It really is a phenomenal read and I can’t wait to see what comes next for Elodie and her men.
December 1, 2025
This is book two of the series and I was so excited to start it! I have been impatiently waiting for this one and luckily it started where the last one left off. I absolutely need to know what the deal is with Walker, oops guess that’s kind of a spoiler cause I still don’t know! Actually, all of the men in this book infuriate me. Rion is the best of them because he’s not in complete denial, but they are all so secretive, I bet I can’t trust him either! There’s still so much I don’t know and it makes this series even better. So many books are so easy to figure out; this is not one of those! Elodie is being put through the wringer and now we have the added pressure of the games. The games are a new threat to Elodie and I love them! We really get to see more of institute thirteen join together as a team. It’s so much fun. This entire book was thrilling until the very end and of course the evil author left us hanging! I can’t wait to see what’s next. This series is definitely one-click!
December 1, 2025
Holy wow. I just sat down and devoured this book in a day and I need more. IMMEDIATELY! We pick up right where we left off with Wicked Dove and while we get some answers in this book, it also left me with more questions than before. 😅
I am loving these characters so much. Elodie has finally accepted that she’s not getting out of the Vale and she’s more than willing to fight for herself and those she cares about. Rion is the biggest golden retriever and I’m absolutely loving it. Kael is winning me over, but after that ending I have some serious questions. And our enigmatic and broody Shadow Fae, Thorne, is finally giving some answers but it’s so little that every time we get something I sit there go “Please, sir, can I have some more?” 😂
This book went in a direction I never would have thought of and I totally loved it. And that ending? Ma’am, I’m going to need you to give us some answers ASAP! Now, when can we get the third book????
I am loving these characters so much. Elodie has finally accepted that she’s not getting out of the Vale and she’s more than willing to fight for herself and those she cares about. Rion is the biggest golden retriever and I’m absolutely loving it. Kael is winning me over, but after that ending I have some serious questions. And our enigmatic and broody Shadow Fae, Thorne, is finally giving some answers but it’s so little that every time we get something I sit there go “Please, sir, can I have some more?” 😂
This book went in a direction I never would have thought of and I totally loved it. And that ending? Ma’am, I’m going to need you to give us some answers ASAP! Now, when can we get the third book????
December 14, 2025
HolyJawDrop!
what was that cliffy!? My actual heart and mind is racing with questions and theories. I need the next book like NOW...
What i absolutely love is how Kc Kean literally blows me away with the worlds she brings to life. From the first page on the series, I've been hooked, and this instalment did not disappoint.
The world building in this top friggin notch and the growth of Elodie i just love. SHOUTOUT to Ocean that girl is the girl you need in your life for sure. friendshipfriggingoals.
And then there’s Kael, Rion, and Thorne… holymotherofgod. How am I supposed to pick just one?! These three are uniquely different and yet will leave you swooning. There is definately one that has me fully invested in him 😍😍
“𝙄 𝙗𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢, 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙤𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙜𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙧𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙞𝙖𝙣 𝙖**𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚,”
We have answers given, and then BAM it leaves with you more questions and a drop the mic ending!
what was that cliffy!? My actual heart and mind is racing with questions and theories. I need the next book like NOW...
What i absolutely love is how Kc Kean literally blows me away with the worlds she brings to life. From the first page on the series, I've been hooked, and this instalment did not disappoint.
The world building in this top friggin notch and the growth of Elodie i just love. SHOUTOUT to Ocean that girl is the girl you need in your life for sure. friendshipfriggingoals.
And then there’s Kael, Rion, and Thorne… holymotherofgod. How am I supposed to pick just one?! These three are uniquely different and yet will leave you swooning. There is definately one that has me fully invested in him 😍😍
“𝙄 𝙗𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢, 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙨 𝙖 𝙩𝙤𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙜𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙚𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙩𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙧𝙙 𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙜𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙙𝙞𝙖𝙣 𝙖**𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙚,”
We have answers given, and then BAM it leaves with you more questions and a drop the mic ending!
December 4, 2025
omgggggg that cliffy!!!! I knew it was coming and what it would be because I follow clues like Im S. Holmes. But I still gasped and said wtf???? because your writing is just so good.
we start off this book right where we left off from bk 1. Knowing that girl Elodie is being betrayed by her one and only trusted friend. being delivered right back to the people and place she so desperately tried to escape. Her magical prison.
we got high emotions from everyone in this book. We get broken truths that sting and new villains to look out for. And of course another epic cliffy with another betrayal from someone so close she can still feel him and smell his scent. I can't even tell you how on edge I am for bk3. I need it right away. usually Im a patient person but KC has me going feral for this series. Great series so far. Highly recommend.
we start off this book right where we left off from bk 1. Knowing that girl Elodie is being betrayed by her one and only trusted friend. being delivered right back to the people and place she so desperately tried to escape. Her magical prison.
we got high emotions from everyone in this book. We get broken truths that sting and new villains to look out for. And of course another epic cliffy with another betrayal from someone so close she can still feel him and smell his scent. I can't even tell you how on edge I am for bk3. I need it right away. usually Im a patient person but KC has me going feral for this series. Great series so far. Highly recommend.
December 6, 2025
Oh my gosh!
This series just keeps getting better!
Elodie is really going through it. I mean one thing after another keeps happening to her & she handles the best she can but man could she use a break.
At the beginning she is betrayed by someone she felt so protected by & now she’s left heartbroken & confused.
Then she still has to deal with the three men who won’t leave her alone. And yet she can’t leave them either. There’s this connection despite what her head is telling her to do & she keeps letting her guard down around them.
But the betrayal I feel will really hurt her is the one that happened at the end, that dang cliffhanger.
Kael, what did you do?
I am so anxious to see what happens next & how this all plays out for Elodie & her guys.
Yet again, this was absolutely amazing!
This series just keeps getting better!
Elodie is really going through it. I mean one thing after another keeps happening to her & she handles the best she can but man could she use a break.
At the beginning she is betrayed by someone she felt so protected by & now she’s left heartbroken & confused.
Then she still has to deal with the three men who won’t leave her alone. And yet she can’t leave them either. There’s this connection despite what her head is telling her to do & she keeps letting her guard down around them.
But the betrayal I feel will really hurt her is the one that happened at the end, that dang cliffhanger.
Kael, what did you do?
I am so anxious to see what happens next & how this all plays out for Elodie & her guys.
Yet again, this was absolutely amazing!
December 8, 2025
Excellent!
Broken Dove is the second book in this supernatural RH series. I'm so in love with this remarkable world and these characters. I can't get enough!
Suspense, betrayal, secrets, and some amazing connections make this second book just pull you in. Elodie keeps getting knocked off balance. (I won't spoil anything for readers) But she finds a way to climb back up and stand up tall. All the while trying to hide her power.
She knows that the Institute wants something from her and she's not about to let them take anything else from her...and she'll find her freedom somehow.
But now the institute is involved in the games and more questions come to light about who Elodie really is. And how many people are actually after her and what do they all want?
Another outstanding cliffhanger to leave readers desperate for the next book. Can't wait for the next book!
Broken Dove is the second book in this supernatural RH series. I'm so in love with this remarkable world and these characters. I can't get enough!
Suspense, betrayal, secrets, and some amazing connections make this second book just pull you in. Elodie keeps getting knocked off balance. (I won't spoil anything for readers) But she finds a way to climb back up and stand up tall. All the while trying to hide her power.
She knows that the Institute wants something from her and she's not about to let them take anything else from her...and she'll find her freedom somehow.
But now the institute is involved in the games and more questions come to light about who Elodie really is. And how many people are actually after her and what do they all want?
Another outstanding cliffhanger to leave readers desperate for the next book. Can't wait for the next book!
December 6, 2025
I just love KC Kean's books! Broken Dove had me absolutely raging at the cliffhanger! After the cliffy from the first book, Wicked Dove, we start right back off. Elodie is resigned to being at the Institute and starts taking an interest in learning about the different magics and species. Meanwhile she's fighting against forgiving Rion and Kael (although thankfully not very hard as we need our steamy moments). The Sanctum is leveling up in trying to learn Elodie's magic and now the Rebellion is taking an interest in her as well. There was a lot of moving parts in this book and now a lot of new questions. I can't wait to find out what's going to happen. I especially can't wait to find out what happens with Thorne, he has a lot of secrets I can't wait to come to light.
December 13, 2025
This series is fantastic. This book sucked me in even more than book 1! Book 2 picked up right where the first one left off at. I was desperately hoping for answers about Walker...but we are left hanging still and I am beyond excited to figure it out at some point. I love all the guys in this one since they are still such a mystery. There are so many unknowns and questions that keep me guessing at every turn, which makes this series all the more thrilling. I like how we can't even guess what is going to happen. Elodie is being put through a ton of different things and that cliffhanger truly left me wanting for more asap. I can't wait to see what book 3 brings. This series and author is one-click for me. Masterpiece!
December 15, 2025
Let's talk about that cliffhanger?
Just finished the second book, and what was that ending? KC Kean’s cliffhangers are probably going to stop my heart and collapse my lungs one of these days. I was not expecting that at all.
This second book is so addictive. The plot and the world-building development are really great to read.
I really like Elodie, but I love her boys - even if she isn’t their girl. And the way their relationships are evolving is just sweet to read. I love how it’s been taking time to happen and how we still don’t really know anything yet about them and their pasts.
This was really good progress for the series, and I just can’t wait for January to keep reading about this world
Just finished the second book, and what was that ending? KC Kean’s cliffhangers are probably going to stop my heart and collapse my lungs one of these days. I was not expecting that at all.
This second book is so addictive. The plot and the world-building development are really great to read.
I really like Elodie, but I love her boys - even if she isn’t their girl. And the way their relationships are evolving is just sweet to read. I love how it’s been taking time to happen and how we still don’t really know anything yet about them and their pasts.
This was really good progress for the series, and I just can’t wait for January to keep reading about this world
December 28, 2025
I just love KC Kean's books! Broken Dove had me absolutely raging at the cliffhanger! After the cliffy from the first book, Wicked Dove, we start right back off. Elodie is resigned to being at the Institute and starts taking an interest in learning about the different magics and species. Meanwhile she's fighting against forgiving Rion and Kael. The Sanctum is leveling up in trying to learn Elodie's magic and now the Rebellion is taking an interest in her as well. There was a lot of moving parts in this book and now a lot of new questions. I can't wait to find out what's going to happen. I especially can't wait to find out what happens with Thorne, he has a lot of secrets I can't wait to come to light.
December 5, 2025
What a book!
So again kc you have smashed it the Queen of Cliffhangers! I dont like to give anything away as I don't like spoilers myself ! Im loving Elodies story and can't wait for the next instalment, the 3 main mc's are quite yummy i can't at the moment decide who is my favourite out of kael Thorne or Rion it is changing every other chapter 🤦♀️ i want to learn more about Ocean as well which im sure we will. I found it quite hard to put this book down as I didn't want to finish it . Thank you KC for letting me be apart if your ARC Team can't wait for book 3 now it's going to drag 🤎
So again kc you have smashed it the Queen of Cliffhangers! I dont like to give anything away as I don't like spoilers myself ! Im loving Elodies story and can't wait for the next instalment, the 3 main mc's are quite yummy i can't at the moment decide who is my favourite out of kael Thorne or Rion it is changing every other chapter 🤦♀️ i want to learn more about Ocean as well which im sure we will. I found it quite hard to put this book down as I didn't want to finish it . Thank you KC for letting me be apart if your ARC Team can't wait for book 3 now it's going to drag 🤎
December 5, 2025
KC Kean delivers in spectacular fashion, with this second installment in the Institute 13 series. I'm completely addicted. To the story, the characters, the what if and's and what did I just read. My head is spinning. We once again find Elodie trying to accept her new reality in The Vale. What she thought she knew, the truths she held onto so tightly, are completely unraveled. Who can she trust, and who is ready to trade her life to save their own? Brilliant, incredibly written, and 100% a must read!!
December 6, 2025
Book two in the Institute Thirteen series is available now! Broken Dove brings all the spice, angst, tension and mystery.
❤️🔥 Why Choose
❤️🔥 Dark PNR Institution
❤️🔥 Touch her and ☠️
❤️🔥 Morally Grey MMCs
❤️🔥 Forbidden Magic
❤️🔥 Wolves, Vampires, Shadow Fae
❤️🔥 Secrets secrets
❤️🔥 The FMC is a handful 😏
This one has left me needing more, immediately. The villains just keep coming and the plot twists are keeping me on my toes. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again @kckeanauthor never disappoints and I will always recommend her books.
❤️🔥 Why Choose
❤️🔥 Dark PNR Institution
❤️🔥 Touch her and ☠️
❤️🔥 Morally Grey MMCs
❤️🔥 Forbidden Magic
❤️🔥 Wolves, Vampires, Shadow Fae
❤️🔥 Secrets secrets
❤️🔥 The FMC is a handful 😏
This one has left me needing more, immediately. The villains just keep coming and the plot twists are keeping me on my toes. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again @kckeanauthor never disappoints and I will always recommend her books.
December 8, 2025
Omg!! I need the next!!!
What is happening!?!? That ending! I feel like I knew it was coming and I feel like I knew who was helping, but omg!!! I love this series! There are so many secrets floating around that I feel like I am in the dark just as much as Elodie. Her guys are super protective, maybe overly in the fact that they're hurting her by holding in secrets...
On top of all the action, it has quite a bit of spice in it too...
I love the turn that this one made with the game aspect and I can't wait to see where it goes... bring on book 3!
What is happening!?!? That ending! I feel like I knew it was coming and I feel like I knew who was helping, but omg!!! I love this series! There are so many secrets floating around that I feel like I am in the dark just as much as Elodie. Her guys are super protective, maybe overly in the fact that they're hurting her by holding in secrets...
On top of all the action, it has quite a bit of spice in it too...
I love the turn that this one made with the game aspect and I can't wait to see where it goes... bring on book 3!
December 20, 2025
Things are turning up at Institute 13!
Huh. That ending! Whyyyyyy! Truly. Not cool. lol.
But honestly. Book 2 was just as good if not better than book 1. I still want to kick Kael in the jewels. Rion is currently still my fave. And Thorne still has a stick up his rear.
Ocean is still the best friend a girl like Elodie could ask for. Willow is still a raging c—-! The rebels are lurking around every corner it seems, we are now in the Games era and the winner is able to ascend!! We find out a big truth bomb about our girl. Wheww.
Can not wait for the third book to drop!
Huh. That ending! Whyyyyyy! Truly. Not cool. lol.
But honestly. Book 2 was just as good if not better than book 1. I still want to kick Kael in the jewels. Rion is currently still my fave. And Thorne still has a stick up his rear.
Ocean is still the best friend a girl like Elodie could ask for. Willow is still a raging c—-! The rebels are lurking around every corner it seems, we are now in the Games era and the winner is able to ascend!! We find out a big truth bomb about our girl. Wheww.
Can not wait for the third book to drop!
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