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Manipulating Magic #1
Teaching Magic
Nyine Hunter's best friend has referred her for a job.
The problem? It's teaching. At a magic school for the wealthy and well-connected.
Not Nyine's typical line of work. Or preferred circle of people. And she's not sure why anyone would think it's a good idea.
But she thinks it'll be an easy way to make money for a year. Only there is more to teaching magic than classes.
The other instructors see her as an uneducated upstart. Nyine knows magic but she doesn't understand formal education systems. And her students have their own problems.
Just when Nyine starts to feel like she belongs, that maybe she has a future at the school, she learns just how easily she could lose it all.
Originally published as Teaching Magic by Amy Cocke
The problem? It's teaching. At a magic school for the wealthy and well-connected.
Not Nyine's typical line of work. Or preferred circle of people. And she's not sure why anyone would think it's a good idea.
But she thinks it'll be an easy way to make money for a year. Only there is more to teaching magic than classes.
The other instructors see her as an uneducated upstart. Nyine knows magic but she doesn't understand formal education systems. And her students have their own problems.
Just when Nyine starts to feel like she belongs, that maybe she has a future at the school, she learns just how easily she could lose it all.
Originally published as Teaching Magic by Amy Cocke
343 pages, Paperback
Published October 11, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
April 5, 2026
Sometimes you just want a cozy magic school story with a war hero who would really rather be left alone with her students.
A war hero with her fair share of scars, physical and otherwise, takes up a incognito teaching position at a prestigious military academy. Instead of spellcraft, she teaches the old magic, a seemingly simpler form of magic. Her approach is unconventional. Frugality from a modest upbringing translates into practical lessons, improvised tools, and methods that do not always fit the academy’s polished expectations. Naturally, this ruffles a few feathers among the establishment.
The tone leans decidedly cozy and low stakes. Much of the story revolves around our heroine finding her footing at the academy, establishing her teaching style, and quietly building a place for herself among colleagues and students. The slow burn romance with the headmaster or administrator develops at a glacial but pleasant pace. It is understated rather than dramatic, which fits the overall mood of the book.
There is a small cabal working behind the scenes, representing reactionary forces who would prefer things to stay exactly as they were. Their attempts to undermine both our heroine and the progress she represents add a bit of tension, though the conflict never becomes particularly intense.
Overall, this was a solid, pleasant read. The cozy atmosphere and the focus on teaching and small personal victories work well, but the story does not quite push into truly memorable territory. Nothing glaringly wrong, but also nothing that kept me up at night. Nevertheless I will add the next title to my unending TBR.
3.5 stars. Enjoyable and comfortable!
A war hero with her fair share of scars, physical and otherwise, takes up a incognito teaching position at a prestigious military academy. Instead of spellcraft, she teaches the old magic, a seemingly simpler form of magic. Her approach is unconventional. Frugality from a modest upbringing translates into practical lessons, improvised tools, and methods that do not always fit the academy’s polished expectations. Naturally, this ruffles a few feathers among the establishment.
The tone leans decidedly cozy and low stakes. Much of the story revolves around our heroine finding her footing at the academy, establishing her teaching style, and quietly building a place for herself among colleagues and students. The slow burn romance with the headmaster or administrator develops at a glacial but pleasant pace. It is understated rather than dramatic, which fits the overall mood of the book.
There is a small cabal working behind the scenes, representing reactionary forces who would prefer things to stay exactly as they were. Their attempts to undermine both our heroine and the progress she represents add a bit of tension, though the conflict never becomes particularly intense.
Overall, this was a solid, pleasant read. The cozy atmosphere and the focus on teaching and small personal victories work well, but the story does not quite push into truly memorable territory. Nothing glaringly wrong, but also nothing that kept me up at night. Nevertheless I will add the next title to my unending TBR.
3.5 stars. Enjoyable and comfortable!
October 4, 2025
An excellent cozy magic book
This series is about an ex-soldier who takes a position as an instructor at a magical military academy. Many assumptions are made, plots hatched, and students taught. This is from the point of view of the instructors, not the students. This story had excellent plotting, more than one magical system, fascinating backstories, and wry humor. I want to rant and rave about how good it is. I will definitely read the next book in the series. As a university professor, it rings true.
This series is about an ex-soldier who takes a position as an instructor at a magical military academy. Many assumptions are made, plots hatched, and students taught. This is from the point of view of the instructors, not the students. This story had excellent plotting, more than one magical system, fascinating backstories, and wry humor. I want to rant and rave about how good it is. I will definitely read the next book in the series. As a university professor, it rings true.
April 23, 2026
Nyine Hunter has a new job as a teacher at a military magic school; a role she's quite ambivalent about, but it's better than the alternatives. She doesn't plan to stay long, but perhaps that's just her past trauma talking.
I likewise have ambivalent feelings about this book :) The writing is smooth and nice to read, but there are various jumps in time/logic that glitched me out of the moment. The characters all have well-thought-through backstory, but at least to me, this often felt under-explained in the moment -- there were various reveals / confessions that didn't land at all for me. The school and magic system are described clearly enough to follow, without excessive detail. But the pacing in general is a little odd. Given the title of the book, I was frustrated it took more than a quarter of the book before there is any actual teaching, and I do feel like some of the initial school procedural / scene-setting could have been tightened up, perhaps in favour of spending more time on classes / with those being taught.
However, Nyine herself is a great main character on a (begrudging) journey of self-development, and I would be interested to read on in the series.
Rating: 12/20
This review is based upon a complimentary reading copy provided by the publisher.
I likewise have ambivalent feelings about this book :) The writing is smooth and nice to read, but there are various jumps in time/logic that glitched me out of the moment. The characters all have well-thought-through backstory, but at least to me, this often felt under-explained in the moment -- there were various reveals / confessions that didn't land at all for me. The school and magic system are described clearly enough to follow, without excessive detail. But the pacing in general is a little odd. Given the title of the book, I was frustrated it took more than a quarter of the book before there is any actual teaching, and I do feel like some of the initial school procedural / scene-setting could have been tightened up, perhaps in favour of spending more time on classes / with those being taught.
However, Nyine herself is a great main character on a (begrudging) journey of self-development, and I would be interested to read on in the series.
Rating: 12/20
This review is based upon a complimentary reading copy provided by the publisher.
April 4, 2026
Teaching Magic was a great read filled with unexpected twists, alliances, and evolving relationships. The main character’s decision to hide her heroic past due to deep trauma adds a powerful emotional layer, especially as she escapes into a temporary teaching position at a magic school.
From the start, mysterious events begin to unfold, seemingly aimed at discrediting both her and the school’s Administrator, which keeps the tension high throughout the story. What really stands out is how easy it is to connect with the protagonist—you genuinely want to reach into the pages and offer her comfort as she struggles to process her past.
The exploration of old magic is another highlight. The way elemental magic is explained and woven into the story feels immersive and well thought out, adding richness to the worldbuilding.
Overall, this was a compelling and heartfelt read, and I’d definitely be interested in reading more from this author.
From the start, mysterious events begin to unfold, seemingly aimed at discrediting both her and the school’s Administrator, which keeps the tension high throughout the story. What really stands out is how easy it is to connect with the protagonist—you genuinely want to reach into the pages and offer her comfort as she struggles to process her past.
The exploration of old magic is another highlight. The way elemental magic is explained and woven into the story feels immersive and well thought out, adding richness to the worldbuilding.
Overall, this was a compelling and heartfelt read, and I’d definitely be interested in reading more from this author.
December 10, 2025
This book engaged me. I liked narrative voice, and I wanted to know more about the characters. There was enough external plot to keep my attention.
April 10, 2026
4.5 stars
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC.
The first few chapters were a bit confusing (lots of names) and hard to get into but after that I was HOOKED!
Nyine, the main character, really grows on you. Especially as she finds her way with the students. That brings me to my favourite part of this book: the school setting, the bonding with the students and the magical system. I loved learning about the different types of magic.
We also learn about the life and history of Nyine through the book and I really enjoyed when all the pieces of who she is fell into place.
This was a very cosy and enjoyable book.
I didn't give a full 5 stars because I felt there could have been a bit more depth to the world building.
Thank you Netgalley for this ARC.
The first few chapters were a bit confusing (lots of names) and hard to get into but after that I was HOOKED!
Nyine, the main character, really grows on you. Especially as she finds her way with the students. That brings me to my favourite part of this book: the school setting, the bonding with the students and the magical system. I loved learning about the different types of magic.
We also learn about the life and history of Nyine through the book and I really enjoyed when all the pieces of who she is fell into place.
This was a very cosy and enjoyable book.
I didn't give a full 5 stars because I felt there could have been a bit more depth to the world building.
May 3, 2026
Teaching magic is bringing on a new magic system, a stubborn heroine and a bunch of lovable side-characters. Nyine Hunter is a “commitment phobic” through and though, so when she is invited to fill a temporary position in a military academy, she is not expecting much. This quickly changes, when the teacher lifestyle (and a certain handsome Administrator) proves to be more convincing than she initially thought.
This book was a breath of fresh air. The main character is in her thirties, so she has some experiences she can reflect on, and not miscommunicate left and right. At first she seemed immature, but later it really helped to understand her character. She is stubborn and hot-headed at times, but she is also passionate and really is just an expert at her field. Her inner monologue was full of sarcasm, I’m pretty sure I put most of my annotations on those chapters, where she is interacting with the other faculty members. She meets her match in the Administrator, who is her complete opposite with his calm and collected demeanor. I adored the students, and was admittedly more invested in their love life than Nyine’s. This might be because of the slower pace the author chose or because I’m closer in age to them, either way I found their interactions the most interesting with our heroine.
I do think some aspects could have been explained more in detail (like the magic system or the new friendships of Nyine), but ultimately the worldbuilding is easy to follow, and there is a second book to elaborate on them.
Overall I had a wonderful time reading this story, it is obvious that the author put great effort into writing it, and there is always fun to read a book set in an academy that isn’t about the students.
Many thanks to Alanna Cole and NetGalley for the ARC!
This book was a breath of fresh air. The main character is in her thirties, so she has some experiences she can reflect on, and not miscommunicate left and right. At first she seemed immature, but later it really helped to understand her character. She is stubborn and hot-headed at times, but she is also passionate and really is just an expert at her field. Her inner monologue was full of sarcasm, I’m pretty sure I put most of my annotations on those chapters, where she is interacting with the other faculty members. She meets her match in the Administrator, who is her complete opposite with his calm and collected demeanor. I adored the students, and was admittedly more invested in their love life than Nyine’s. This might be because of the slower pace the author chose or because I’m closer in age to them, either way I found their interactions the most interesting with our heroine.
I do think some aspects could have been explained more in detail (like the magic system or the new friendships of Nyine), but ultimately the worldbuilding is easy to follow, and there is a second book to elaborate on them.
Overall I had a wonderful time reading this story, it is obvious that the author put great effort into writing it, and there is always fun to read a book set in an academy that isn’t about the students.
Many thanks to Alanna Cole and NetGalley for the ARC!
April 19, 2026
Teaching Magic by Alanna Cole is the kind of story that feels like stepping into a classroom where the chalk dust glows and every lesson hums with possibility. It’s warm, immersive, and filled with that quiet kind of magic that lingers long after the final page.
What truly shines is the balance between wonder and heart. The magical elements are imaginative and vivid, but they never overshadow the emotional core of the story. At its center, this is a story about growth—about learning not just spells, but confidence, connection, and what it means to truly believe in yourself and others.
The characters are wonderfully crafted, each bringing their own spark to the story. Watching their relationships develop—whether through mentorship, friendship, or something deeper—adds a richness that makes the world feel alive. The protagonist, in particular, is easy to root for, with a journey that feels both personal and inspiring.
The pacing flows beautifully, blending moments of discovery, tension, and warmth in a way that keeps you completely engaged. Every chapter feels purposeful, building toward a conclusion that feels both satisfying and earned.
Overall, Teaching Magic is a delightful and uplifting read that captures the joy of learning, the power of connection, and the quiet magic found in everyday moments. It’s a story that feels like a cozy spell you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alanna Cole Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What truly shines is the balance between wonder and heart. The magical elements are imaginative and vivid, but they never overshadow the emotional core of the story. At its center, this is a story about growth—about learning not just spells, but confidence, connection, and what it means to truly believe in yourself and others.
The characters are wonderfully crafted, each bringing their own spark to the story. Watching their relationships develop—whether through mentorship, friendship, or something deeper—adds a richness that makes the world feel alive. The protagonist, in particular, is easy to root for, with a journey that feels both personal and inspiring.
The pacing flows beautifully, blending moments of discovery, tension, and warmth in a way that keeps you completely engaged. Every chapter feels purposeful, building toward a conclusion that feels both satisfying and earned.
Overall, Teaching Magic is a delightful and uplifting read that captures the joy of learning, the power of connection, and the quiet magic found in everyday moments. It’s a story that feels like a cozy spell you’ll want to revisit again and again.
Thank you to NetGalley and Alanna Cole Books for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 11, 2026
Alanna Cole’s Teaching Magic offers a refreshing, character-driven twist on the magical academy trope by shifting the focus from students to educators. The story follows Nyine Hunter, a reluctant but brilliant temporary instructor at a military magic academy, whose sharp wit and professional expertise breathe life into the faculty dynamics. Cole’s worldbuilding is immersive yet grounded, with a magic system that feels organic and deeply tied to the protagonists’ personal struggles, lending emotional weight to the narrative.
Nyine’s sarcastic inner monologue and her evolving relationships—particularly with the composed Administrator and her students—add depth and humor. While the pacing occasionally lingers, the character growth and faculty interactions remain compelling. Some elements, like the magic system’s mechanics and Nyine’s friendships, could benefit from further exploration, but the foundation is strong, leaving room for expansion in future installments.
A cozy, heartfelt read that balances whimsy with genuine stakes, Teaching Magic is ideal for fans of academy fantasy seeking a mature, educator-centered perspective.
Thank you to NetGalley, Alanna Cole and the publisher for the ARC.
Nyine’s sarcastic inner monologue and her evolving relationships—particularly with the composed Administrator and her students—add depth and humor. While the pacing occasionally lingers, the character growth and faculty interactions remain compelling. Some elements, like the magic system’s mechanics and Nyine’s friendships, could benefit from further exploration, but the foundation is strong, leaving room for expansion in future installments.
A cozy, heartfelt read that balances whimsy with genuine stakes, Teaching Magic is ideal for fans of academy fantasy seeking a mature, educator-centered perspective.
Thank you to NetGalley, Alanna Cole and the publisher for the ARC.
April 12, 2026
If you love cozy fantasy with a touch of romance, Teaching Magic is such a comforting, easy-to-sink-into read.
Nyine is exactly the kind of main character I enjoy—capable, a little out of place, and quietly determined to prove herself in a world that doesn’t quite accept her. Watching her navigate a prestigious magic school full of privilege, politics, and judgement was genuinely engaging.
The story leans more into character growth and atmosphere than high-stakes action, which works perfectly for the cozy fantasy vibe. There’s just enough tension with the sabotage plot to keep things interesting, while the slow-burn romance adds a soft, enjoyable layer without overpowering the story.
It’s light, immersive, and gives you that “just one more chapter” feeling.
A great start to a series if you’re after low-spice fantasy with heart, magic, and a hint of intrigue.
Nyine is exactly the kind of main character I enjoy—capable, a little out of place, and quietly determined to prove herself in a world that doesn’t quite accept her. Watching her navigate a prestigious magic school full of privilege, politics, and judgement was genuinely engaging.
The story leans more into character growth and atmosphere than high-stakes action, which works perfectly for the cozy fantasy vibe. There’s just enough tension with the sabotage plot to keep things interesting, while the slow-burn romance adds a soft, enjoyable layer without overpowering the story.
It’s light, immersive, and gives you that “just one more chapter” feeling.
A great start to a series if you’re after low-spice fantasy with heart, magic, and a hint of intrigue.
April 22, 2026
This book was not for me.
As a teacher, I thought it would be great to read about a teacher ! … no it is not ! Absolutely not !
I love reading fantasy because I like to dream, escape, travel ! But this story hit too close to home for me.
It might be a good point : the main character is completely relatable as a new teacher. Her healing journey is pretty accurate too.
In fact the characters were all well developed and intriguing, there was many surprises and good actions.
Nevertheless the main plot was hard to catch, it was more like a biography : we followed the main character during a year with ups and downs and the occasional mystery and romance. The were no high stakes, not much suspense.
Overall I had a good time but it did not felt cosy and it was a bit forgettable.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and everyone involved for this copy.
As a teacher, I thought it would be great to read about a teacher ! … no it is not ! Absolutely not !
I love reading fantasy because I like to dream, escape, travel ! But this story hit too close to home for me.
It might be a good point : the main character is completely relatable as a new teacher. Her healing journey is pretty accurate too.
In fact the characters were all well developed and intriguing, there was many surprises and good actions.
Nevertheless the main plot was hard to catch, it was more like a biography : we followed the main character during a year with ups and downs and the occasional mystery and romance. The were no high stakes, not much suspense.
Overall I had a good time but it did not felt cosy and it was a bit forgettable.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and everyone involved for this copy.
May 11, 2026
I am absolutely OBSESSED with the world that Alanna Cole has created for her badass FMC Nyine Hunter.
Nyine has spent the past while traveling far and wide, until she accepts a position teaching manipulation magic at Swever Hall school.
Along the way she comes up against pompous instructors, a congenial Administrator, and students who just need a teacher that believes in them.
I could wax poetic about this book for days because it drew me in so fully with the action, emotion, and the truly great storytelling. Nyine is a character that I instantly rooted for, and all of us can learn about confidence in our own abilities from her.
Any fan of magic and fantasy needs to read this book ASAP!
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy of this book.
Nyine has spent the past while traveling far and wide, until she accepts a position teaching manipulation magic at Swever Hall school.
Along the way she comes up against pompous instructors, a congenial Administrator, and students who just need a teacher that believes in them.
I could wax poetic about this book for days because it drew me in so fully with the action, emotion, and the truly great storytelling. Nyine is a character that I instantly rooted for, and all of us can learn about confidence in our own abilities from her.
Any fan of magic and fantasy needs to read this book ASAP!
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy of this book.
May 4, 2026
It was such a refreshing and charming take on the magical school trope. Instead of the usual chosen-one drama, I loved that the focus was on the perspective of the educators, making the world feel grounded and unique while still being full of wonder. The character growth was really heartfelt, and the way the magic system felt so intertwined with the personal struggles of the protagonists made the stakes feel incredibly intimate and real. It’s a cozy yet deeply engaging read that captured the joy and chaos of teaching perfectly, and I’m only holding back that fifth star because I’m eager to see even more of this whimsical world explored in future installments.
May 6, 2026
Welcome to your next dark academia love. Swever Hall is a battle magic college that’s trying to change the way students are taught. With a new instructor, a plot to take down the administration and the slowest of slow burns.
I was so excited when @alannacole.books asked if I wanted to read Teaching Magic. And it 100% did not disappoint. As soon as I was done the book I wanted to read book 2 and I wanted to enroll at Swever Hall.
A great mix of dark academia, cozy fantasy and magic.
5 ⭐️s highly recommend
I was so excited when @alannacole.books asked if I wanted to read Teaching Magic. And it 100% did not disappoint. As soon as I was done the book I wanted to read book 2 and I wanted to enroll at Swever Hall.
A great mix of dark academia, cozy fantasy and magic.
5 ⭐️s highly recommend
April 3, 2026
This was a very cozy, cute magic story about a war hero trying to stay out of the limelight while trying her hand as an instructor for a magical military academy. I felt something was missing and struggled to engage fully for the beginning of the story. However, I really enjoyed the narrative style and wittiness from the protagonist. Her sarcasm, some of the side character development, and the budding romance seen later in the story do make me want to read the sequel.
Received via Netgalley
Received via Netgalley
January 12, 2026
Cozy magical school
It's not dark academia, it's just academia that happens to have magic. It's a military school, but there's very little fighting. It's a book about a woman finding her place (despite some serious trauma), and it's extremely well done. Highly recommended.
It's not dark academia, it's just academia that happens to have magic. It's a military school, but there's very little fighting. It's a book about a woman finding her place (despite some serious trauma), and it's extremely well done. Highly recommended.
January 29, 2026
An unexpected read
I was somewhat reluctant to start this book as I am not a fan of boarding school stories, as most are too YA in flavor. This one’s protagonist was pretty interesting and I look forward to the next book.
I was somewhat reluctant to start this book as I am not a fan of boarding school stories, as most are too YA in flavor. This one’s protagonist was pretty interesting and I look forward to the next book.
April 9, 2026
This book was a nice palate cleanser. It was short, sweet, and can hold your attention. There is a simple storyline and you’re introduced to the characters well. I think the spunky FMC, Nyine, made the book fun and her role in the school both as instructor and sleuth was interesting
November 27, 2023
This was a good and cute fantasy book, just a little on the shorter side for me. I struggled to get my attention back to it sometimes but it ended nicely!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews