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Arcana Academy #2
Prince of Swords
Not yet published
Expected 21 Jul 26Win a free print copy of this book!
11 days and 14:37:02
10 copies available
U.S. only
Welcome back to Arcana Academy. Tarot magic, forbidden desire, battle, and betrayal collide for the power to change the world in the thrilling second book of this New York Times bestselling fantasy romance series.
I am terrified. Yet my heart skips a beat. This man might be a monster, but he is my monster.
Clara Graysword is Oricalis’s most wanted. Hunted and cornered, not even her mastery of tarot can save her this time . . . until the mysterious Worldkeepers appear. This secretive order may hold the key to changing Clara’s fate. If she dares to trust them.
But the most dangerous alliance of all is one she’s already deeply ensnared Prince Kaelis.
Kaelis, second-born prince of Oricalis and headmaster of Arcana Academy, is the one man she can’t escape—maybe she doesn’t want to escape. Ruthless, dangerous, and bound to Clara by destiny and desire, Kaelis tests her heart as much as her loyalty. Together, they grow closer to the most powerful secrets of the tarot . . . and to the truths they both hide that could destroy the passion that they no longer deny.
Hidden in plain sight within Arcana Academy, Clara walks the dagger’s edge. Revelations about Oricalis threaten everything she thought she knew, and every choice she makes is the difference between salvation and ruin.
To change the world, Clara must risk everything—her power, her beliefs, and her heart.
Book Two in The Arcana Academy Series
Don't miss any of Elise Kova's enthralling Arcana Academy Series!
ARCANA ACADEMY PRINCE OF SWORDS
I am terrified. Yet my heart skips a beat. This man might be a monster, but he is my monster.
Clara Graysword is Oricalis’s most wanted. Hunted and cornered, not even her mastery of tarot can save her this time . . . until the mysterious Worldkeepers appear. This secretive order may hold the key to changing Clara’s fate. If she dares to trust them.
But the most dangerous alliance of all is one she’s already deeply ensnared Prince Kaelis.
Kaelis, second-born prince of Oricalis and headmaster of Arcana Academy, is the one man she can’t escape—maybe she doesn’t want to escape. Ruthless, dangerous, and bound to Clara by destiny and desire, Kaelis tests her heart as much as her loyalty. Together, they grow closer to the most powerful secrets of the tarot . . . and to the truths they both hide that could destroy the passion that they no longer deny.
Hidden in plain sight within Arcana Academy, Clara walks the dagger’s edge. Revelations about Oricalis threaten everything she thought she knew, and every choice she makes is the difference between salvation and ruin.
To change the world, Clara must risk everything—her power, her beliefs, and her heart.
Book Two in The Arcana Academy Series
Don't miss any of Elise Kova's enthralling Arcana Academy Series!
ARCANA ACADEMY PRINCE OF SWORDS
560 pages, Hardcover
Expected publication July 21, 2026
About the author
Elise Kova
51 books18k followersJoin Elise's mailing list to never miss a giveaway, release, sale, and more: https://elisekova.com/subscribe/
ELISE KOVA is a USA Today bestselling author. She enjoys telling stories of fantasy worlds filled with magic and deep emotions. She lives in Florida and, when not writing, can be found playing video games, drawing, chatting with readers on social media, or daydreaming about her next story.
Say Hello!
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | TWITTER
ELISE KOVA is a USA Today bestselling author. She enjoys telling stories of fantasy worlds filled with magic and deep emotions. She lives in Florida and, when not writing, can be found playing video games, drawing, chatting with readers on social media, or daydreaming about her next story.
Say Hello!
INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK | FACEBOOK | TWITTER
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
Want to Read
January 29, 2026wdym I have to wait until July to see Kaelis burn this world down for her????
future-releases
November 24, 2025Take me back to Arcana Academy!
remind-me-once-out
December 28, 2025oh would you look at that
March 8, 2026
So good. I can’t believe what I read. Need book 3 ASAP.
May 13, 2026
That ending.
In true Elise Kova fashion that ending was illegal lol but no seriously, I love how we learned more about certain characters and their relationship with Clara and added more into the world and its history that we didn’t know from book 1
Can’t wait for Book 3!!
In true Elise Kova fashion that ending was illegal lol but no seriously, I love how we learned more about certain characters and their relationship with Clara and added more into the world and its history that we didn’t know from book 1
Can’t wait for Book 3!!
Want to Read
March 5, 2026GIRL. JULY 2026?!?!?!?!?!???!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Prince of Swords completely consumed me—I loved this book so much.
From the very beginning, this story had me on the edge of my seat. Between the dangerous alliances, betrayals, secrets, and nonstop tension, I genuinely never felt fully settled while reading because I had absolutely no idea who could actually be trusted.
This series continues to build such an addictive world, and the tarot magic, political intrigue, and high-stakes fantasy elements felt even bigger in this installment. Every revelation seemed to raise the stakes higher, and I found myself making so many reader noises while trying to process everything that was happening.
And Kaelis? Obsessed. I loved him so much in this book. The things he says, the tension between him and Clara, the intensity of their connection—it all had me completely invested. Their dynamic carries so much emotional weight alongside the forbidden desire and danger surrounding them, and every scene between them felt impossible to look away from.
This book also hit me emotionally harder than I expected. There were parts that had me screaming and other moments that genuinely had me sobbing. Elise Kova did such a good job balancing the emotional moments with the action and intrigue, which made the story feel even more immersive.
And that ending? Absolutely cruel. What a cliffhanger. I already need book three immediately because I have so many questions after that final stretch of chapters.
Overall, Prince of Swords is a gripping fantasy romance packed with tension, betrayal, magic, and emotionally charged relationships that will keep you completely hooked from beginning to end. Huge thank you to Elise Kova and Del Rey for the ARC.
Spice: Ch. 34, 41, 54, 68
From the very beginning, this story had me on the edge of my seat. Between the dangerous alliances, betrayals, secrets, and nonstop tension, I genuinely never felt fully settled while reading because I had absolutely no idea who could actually be trusted.
This series continues to build such an addictive world, and the tarot magic, political intrigue, and high-stakes fantasy elements felt even bigger in this installment. Every revelation seemed to raise the stakes higher, and I found myself making so many reader noises while trying to process everything that was happening.
And Kaelis? Obsessed. I loved him so much in this book. The things he says, the tension between him and Clara, the intensity of their connection—it all had me completely invested. Their dynamic carries so much emotional weight alongside the forbidden desire and danger surrounding them, and every scene between them felt impossible to look away from.
This book also hit me emotionally harder than I expected. There were parts that had me screaming and other moments that genuinely had me sobbing. Elise Kova did such a good job balancing the emotional moments with the action and intrigue, which made the story feel even more immersive.
And that ending? Absolutely cruel. What a cliffhanger. I already need book three immediately because I have so many questions after that final stretch of chapters.
Overall, Prince of Swords is a gripping fantasy romance packed with tension, betrayal, magic, and emotionally charged relationships that will keep you completely hooked from beginning to end. Huge thank you to Elise Kova and Del Rey for the ARC.
Spice: Ch. 34, 41, 54, 68
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Elise Kova does it again! She brings us right back to the world of tarot magic and the continuation of Clara's journey. She is wanted by the Oricalis and has to figure out who she can trust.
She needs to gather information for the Worldkeepers, but she is torn between them and Kaelis and what she needs to do. The world building is immersive, which gets you involved in the twists and turns and you don't see them coming! I really enjoyed having no clue as to what was going to happen next.
Secrets. So many secrets! Clara is certainly overwhelmed with the amount of secrets and lies she must manage. Each one adds to the complexity of her life, making it a challenge to keep everything in order. I definitely wouldn't be able to manage them all. She isn't the only one with secrets, either!
I love all the characters. The supporting characters are as much a part of the story as Clara and Kaelis. There are some funny moments as well.
I absolutely loved everything about the second book! From the very first page, I was completely captivated, and the cliffhanger at the end left me wanting more! I can't wait for book three to find out what happens next! I need to read it ASAP!
Thank you Elise and Del Ray for the ARC. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
"As long as you draw breath, there's a chance for us to remake this world. There is still hope, Clara."
"Belief is sharper than any blade, stronger than even stone. It far outlines the trappings of mortal men. Even of fate itself."
"Clara, you can't avoid the future just because it might contain something you won't like."
"Sometimes, we must do what terrifies us most before we're even sure we're capable of surviving it."
She needs to gather information for the Worldkeepers, but she is torn between them and Kaelis and what she needs to do. The world building is immersive, which gets you involved in the twists and turns and you don't see them coming! I really enjoyed having no clue as to what was going to happen next.
Secrets. So many secrets! Clara is certainly overwhelmed with the amount of secrets and lies she must manage. Each one adds to the complexity of her life, making it a challenge to keep everything in order. I definitely wouldn't be able to manage them all. She isn't the only one with secrets, either!
I love all the characters. The supporting characters are as much a part of the story as Clara and Kaelis. There are some funny moments as well.
I absolutely loved everything about the second book! From the very first page, I was completely captivated, and the cliffhanger at the end left me wanting more! I can't wait for book three to find out what happens next! I need to read it ASAP!
Thank you Elise and Del Ray for the ARC. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
"As long as you draw breath, there's a chance for us to remake this world. There is still hope, Clara."
"Belief is sharper than any blade, stronger than even stone. It far outlines the trappings of mortal men. Even of fate itself."
"Clara, you can't avoid the future just because it might contain something you won't like."
"Sometimes, we must do what terrifies us most before we're even sure we're capable of surviving it."
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
WELP.
I’m not sure if I’ve fully processed this sequel. I was so stoked to receive this digital advanced copy from the publisher after “Arcana Academy”; I have two copies on my trophy shelf and preordered “Prince of Swords”.
The pacing of this sequel felt very rushed. Maybe I needed to read “Arcana Academy” right before, but the Clara/Kaelis relationship took centre stage and pushed the world and plot out. The story felt sticky, fan service-y, and rushed. All that being said, the parts that actually moved along, moved along. It’s not as plot twisty as I was expecting, but it’s still enough of a meaty story with characters I’m invested in to make me want to continue on to the third and final.
If the romance part of things is your thing, this will do it for you. If you’re looking for a balance or something a little more substantial, you’re going to be missing some of the world and magic of the first novel. The magic system is still fun and immersive, and the fight scenes were some of my favourite to get through.
I wavered between a 3.75 and 4.25, generously speaking, as I still have plenty of hope for the trilogy to sweep me back up.
Massive thank you to the publisher for indulging my grabby hands for a series I’m still enjoying.
I’m not sure if I’ve fully processed this sequel. I was so stoked to receive this digital advanced copy from the publisher after “Arcana Academy”; I have two copies on my trophy shelf and preordered “Prince of Swords”.
The pacing of this sequel felt very rushed. Maybe I needed to read “Arcana Academy” right before, but the Clara/Kaelis relationship took centre stage and pushed the world and plot out. The story felt sticky, fan service-y, and rushed. All that being said, the parts that actually moved along, moved along. It’s not as plot twisty as I was expecting, but it’s still enough of a meaty story with characters I’m invested in to make me want to continue on to the third and final.
If the romance part of things is your thing, this will do it for you. If you’re looking for a balance or something a little more substantial, you’re going to be missing some of the world and magic of the first novel. The magic system is still fun and immersive, and the fight scenes were some of my favourite to get through.
I wavered between a 3.75 and 4.25, generously speaking, as I still have plenty of hope for the trilogy to sweep me back up.
Massive thank you to the publisher for indulging my grabby hands for a series I’m still enjoying.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
HE’S A MONSTER, BUT HE’S MINE. ❤️🔥⚔️
If you need a high-stakes fantasy with a magic system that will actually stress you out, stop scrolling.
The Plot:
Clara Graysword just became Oricalis’ most wanted after a brutal prison break. Now, she’s on the run, trying to ink the Vessel Card before the Death Card finds her. The catch? She has to trust Kaelis—the man she’s hated her entire life, even if he is the one who’s been in her bed. 🫣
Why it’s a MUST-READ:
Magic System: Deck-based magic (The World vs. The Death Card).
The Vibe: Found family with the Starcrossed Club.
The Tension: "He’s a monster, but he’s my monster."
The Ending: A cliffhanger that will leave you staring at a wall for twenty minutes. 💀
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Read if you love:
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ "Most Wanted" fugitives
✨ High-stakes magic
✨ Dark, gritty world-building
My full review on this book can be found here; https://cindieslibrary.com/prince-of-...
If you need a high-stakes fantasy with a magic system that will actually stress you out, stop scrolling.
The Plot:
Clara Graysword just became Oricalis’ most wanted after a brutal prison break. Now, she’s on the run, trying to ink the Vessel Card before the Death Card finds her. The catch? She has to trust Kaelis—the man she’s hated her entire life, even if he is the one who’s been in her bed. 🫣
Why it’s a MUST-READ:
Magic System: Deck-based magic (The World vs. The Death Card).
The Vibe: Found family with the Starcrossed Club.
The Tension: "He’s a monster, but he’s my monster."
The Ending: A cliffhanger that will leave you staring at a wall for twenty minutes. 💀
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Read if you love:
✨ Enemies to Lovers
✨ "Most Wanted" fugitives
✨ High-stakes magic
✨ Dark, gritty world-building
My full review on this book can be found here; https://cindieslibrary.com/prince-of-...
Read
May 10, 2026Prince of Swords by Elise Kova published by Del Rey Random House Worlds is the second book in the Arcana Academy Series.
Clara Graysword's story continues. Student at Arcana Academy, tarot magic, battle, betrayal, her story continues.
I read the first book Aracana Academy and immediatedly read it again, I loved the story that much. And now the next book is here and I couldn't wait to get my hands on this gem of a story.
The second book is even better than the first one, I know I thought it wasn't possible too.
I loved the romantasy, the push and pull, the pace and the drama very much.
I recommend the book and the series that deserves all the stars.
Clara Graysword's story continues. Student at Arcana Academy, tarot magic, battle, betrayal, her story continues.
I read the first book Aracana Academy and immediatedly read it again, I loved the story that much. And now the next book is here and I couldn't wait to get my hands on this gem of a story.
The second book is even better than the first one, I know I thought it wasn't possible too.
I loved the romantasy, the push and pull, the pace and the drama very much.
I recommend the book and the series that deserves all the stars.
May 12, 2026
Prince of Swords picks up right where Arcana Academy ends and it’s a wild ride from start to finish!
Just like the first one, this book is full of secrets and intrigue, fighting and friendship, family and revenge, and not knowing who to trust. It also has love and hope shinning through in the middle of dark times. Prince of Swords has plenty of twists and turns, and I couldn’t guess what would happen next.
If you liked Arcana Academy, then you’ll enjoy Prince of Swords.
I throughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for book 3!
Just like the first one, this book is full of secrets and intrigue, fighting and friendship, family and revenge, and not knowing who to trust. It also has love and hope shinning through in the middle of dark times. Prince of Swords has plenty of twists and turns, and I couldn’t guess what would happen next.
If you liked Arcana Academy, then you’ll enjoy Prince of Swords.
I throughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for book 3!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Prince of Swords is an unputtable down sequel to Arcana Academy. The story picks up right where book one left off. There is so much intrigue, action, and romance that the story never lost my interest and I dreaded having to stop for anything. The romance between Clara and Kaelis is top tier. The ending of the book had me holding my breath and I'm not sure I will breathe again until book 3 comes out. It will be a hard wait for it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an ARC, and Prince of Swords was a solid and enjoyable read. The world-building was immersive and the magic system felt fresh, and I really appreciated the overall atmosphere of the story. While I didn’t fully connect with every character or moment, the book kept my interest and had some standout scenes. I’m definitely curious to see where the series goes next!! :)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I am entranced by this series. The tenacity and grit Clara has makes me cling every word. Because no matter how fate twists and literally ruins her life, she hasnt stopped.
Also I enjoy the complex (yet somehow easy going relationship) she has with Kaelis. But that ending?!?!? Omg im so excited for the last installment!
Also I enjoy the complex (yet somehow easy going relationship) she has with Kaelis. But that ending?!?!? Omg im so excited for the last installment!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I didn’t receive this book. I didn’t read it yet. I’m marking 5 stars, though, because a b*tch 👇🏽 decided to rate 1 star out of pettiness. I despise ppl like that and I want to show the author my endless support, while asking kindly for an ARC 😅 (because why not??)
Review of advance copy received from Author
Absolutely incredible continuation in the Arcana Academy series!
Twist, turns, answers, and more questions in this fabulous story - highly recommended and cannot wait until book 3 is available!
Twist, turns, answers, and more questions in this fabulous story - highly recommended and cannot wait until book 3 is available!
Want to Read
May 8, 2026book 2, coming July 2026
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews