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Mages & Murder #1
Gravespell
Not yet published
Expected 6 Apr 27WEDNESDAY ADDAMS meets ONE OF US IS LYING in this magic-filled thriller set at a modern school for wizards.
Alice Howe is an outcast at the elite Deepgrove Academy for Magic, which suits her just fine. But an unwelcome premonition means she’ll have to step out of the shadows. Because now she’s the only one at Deepgrove who knows two terrible things. In seven days her schoolmate Xena Wycomb, daughter of the American President of Magic, will be dead. And, if left unsolved, Xena’s murder will ignite a war.
Despite Alice’s warning, Xena meets her foreseen demise. But before she does, she points a finger at the prime suspects in her own murder, each of whom has a deadly secret to keep.
Christopher: The ex-boyfriend she cheated on and the heir to the biggest magical corporation in the world.
Delvy: The traitorous best friend who is embroiled in a scandal of her own.
Ben: Xena’s new boyfriend, a mage born without magic and the perfect scapegoat.
And of course, Alice herself.
Soon, the four of them are at the center of a huge media scandal, amid a very public murder investigation, which brings their world to the brink of war between those born with magic and those born without. And it all leads back to Xena.
Alice knows she can’t trust devilishly charming Christopher, picture-perfect Delvy, or morose Ben, but they all hold a piece of the puzzle. As suspicion falls on each of them in turn, Alice must find a way to uncover who killed Xena before the whole of magekind meets the same fate.
Alice Howe is an outcast at the elite Deepgrove Academy for Magic, which suits her just fine. But an unwelcome premonition means she’ll have to step out of the shadows. Because now she’s the only one at Deepgrove who knows two terrible things. In seven days her schoolmate Xena Wycomb, daughter of the American President of Magic, will be dead. And, if left unsolved, Xena’s murder will ignite a war.
Despite Alice’s warning, Xena meets her foreseen demise. But before she does, she points a finger at the prime suspects in her own murder, each of whom has a deadly secret to keep.
Christopher: The ex-boyfriend she cheated on and the heir to the biggest magical corporation in the world.
Delvy: The traitorous best friend who is embroiled in a scandal of her own.
Ben: Xena’s new boyfriend, a mage born without magic and the perfect scapegoat.
And of course, Alice herself.
Soon, the four of them are at the center of a huge media scandal, amid a very public murder investigation, which brings their world to the brink of war between those born with magic and those born without. And it all leads back to Xena.
Alice knows she can’t trust devilishly charming Christopher, picture-perfect Delvy, or morose Ben, but they all hold a piece of the puzzle. As suspicion falls on each of them in turn, Alice must find a way to uncover who killed Xena before the whole of magekind meets the same fate.
Hardcover
Expected publication April 6, 2027
About the author
James Trevino
3 books42.8k followersJames Trevino is fascinated by magical societies full of dark secrets, morally gray characters, and impossible choices. He writes about people who stumble, fight, and sometimes fail, but always try to do better in worlds that are anything but simple. When he’s not writing, James can be found listening to creepypastas, binge-watching fantasy and sci-fi shows, or digging into history, all under the watchful eye of his cat familiar, Wanda.
GRAVESPELL, his debut novel releasing in April 2027, will be published in more than a dozen countries.
You can find him on Instagram as @james_trevino and TikTok as @james.trevino or at trevinoandsagan.com
GRAVESPELL, his debut novel releasing in April 2027, will be published in more than a dozen countries.
You can find him on Instagram as @james_trevino and TikTok as @james.trevino or at trevinoandsagan.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I know this is only coming out in April but I saw it was Wednesday (one of my favourite shows) reminiscent & I just couldn’t stop thinking about it so here we are! Thanks to NetGalley & the publishers for a chance to review this arc 💜🐍
« normal is overrated. »
They weren’t lying when they mentioned Wednesday Addams in the synopsis. I fell head over heels for this one!
Gravespell follows 4 well balanced POVs in a magical academy for mageborns. Our first POV is Alice, an outcast (who’s very happy with that title, thank you very much) who has a snake 🐍 familiar (loved Darling so much) who has a vision that Xena (a very popular girl) is going to die in a week’s time.
The second POV follows Ben, the only void (absence of magic) in this magical academy, who is Xena’s boyfriend.
The third POV is Delvy, Xena’s best friend and the last one is Chris, Xena’s ex boyfriend and heir to a destructive company.
When I tell you the found family had me on the floor I’m not even being dramatic. I loved all 4 pov’s equally and I loved Vlad, Alice’s best friend, too. Alice’s family was the sweetest and made me so envious.
We follow them along this murder mystery while the world goes south. Our MCs go through so much character development & emotions, it’s impossible not to feel for them. They had so much growth, and I just loved reading about them. Their character arcs were so well defined & they were multi layered.
The magic system, the familiars system, the politics, the academics… it was all so unique & everything was well thought out. I was glued to the page and couldn’t put it down. It was so addictive and nothing was as simple as it seemed. The complexity behind the politics/power balance was truly astonishing. The stakes were so high & dark that it was impossible not to feel anxious.
I highly recommend this. It was absolutely brilliant and I cannot wait for the sequel.
« normal is overrated. »
They weren’t lying when they mentioned Wednesday Addams in the synopsis. I fell head over heels for this one!
Gravespell follows 4 well balanced POVs in a magical academy for mageborns. Our first POV is Alice, an outcast (who’s very happy with that title, thank you very much) who has a snake 🐍 familiar (loved Darling so much) who has a vision that Xena (a very popular girl) is going to die in a week’s time.
The second POV follows Ben, the only void (absence of magic) in this magical academy, who is Xena’s boyfriend.
The third POV is Delvy, Xena’s best friend and the last one is Chris, Xena’s ex boyfriend and heir to a destructive company.
When I tell you the found family had me on the floor I’m not even being dramatic. I loved all 4 pov’s equally and I loved Vlad, Alice’s best friend, too. Alice’s family was the sweetest and made me so envious.
We follow them along this murder mystery while the world goes south. Our MCs go through so much character development & emotions, it’s impossible not to feel for them. They had so much growth, and I just loved reading about them. Their character arcs were so well defined & they were multi layered.
The magic system, the familiars system, the politics, the academics… it was all so unique & everything was well thought out. I was glued to the page and couldn’t put it down. It was so addictive and nothing was as simple as it seemed. The complexity behind the politics/power balance was truly astonishing. The stakes were so high & dark that it was impossible not to feel anxious.
I highly recommend this. It was absolutely brilliant and I cannot wait for the sequel.
December 3, 2025
Beneath the modern world, a hidden society of wizards stands on the brink of war. At its heart lies the wondrous Deepgrove Academy, buried deep underground. As corporations strip magic for profit and power, with disastrous consequences, a group of students is drawn into a saga of mystery, murder, and mayhem when they’re accused of kíllíng the daughter of the American President of Magic.
Doesn’t this sound just amazing? Well, I might be biased because I’m one of the authors, haha. But if you give my little heart’s story a chance, I really hope you’ll enjoy it. Thank you, and happy reading!
Doesn’t this sound just amazing? Well, I might be biased because I’m one of the authors, haha. But if you give my little heart’s story a chance, I really hope you’ll enjoy it. Thank you, and happy reading!
December 3, 2025
I think this is a spectacular book, not only because my best friend and I wrote it, but also because we've read it ALOUD at least 14 times, and still managed to be captivated, feel chills, and laugh at our own jokes =))
November 26, 2025
SENSATIONAL! Elizabeth and James knocked it out of the park with this book. I wouldn’t be surprised (AT ALL) if this is the next big thing. This book isn’t just a work of art but one of partnership and absolute brilliance. Cannot wait for all to read it!!!!
October 23, 2026
"If you see this, I'm dead."
Thank you so much to NetGalley and publishers for my e-arc of this!!!
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
General Summary (spoiler free): I was sold on this book solely based off of the wednesday x one of us is lying description but it also felt kind of hogwarts to me (which I loved!) The beginning part of this didn’t have me sold but all of the characters and their arcs were very unique and well written. The world building is very well thought out and intentional for the plot. I also really liked the setting of Deepgrove it felt fitting for the story. There were a lot of turns throughout the book in trying to find the true murderer, and I thought the character’s nickname of The Coven of Death was pretty funny.
Characters (multi pov): Alice, Christopher, Delvy, and Ben
Alice: The outcast, the Foreteller. I grew to like her throughout the book as she grew and uncovered the secrets of Xena’s death while learning to understand her own gift.
Christopher: The Heir, sometimes called Crane (his last name) At first I really didn’t like him but his redemption arc was well written and by the end I liked him a lot more than I thought I would.
Delvy: The best friend. I loved watching her grow throughout the book and her friendship with the other characters in wake of Xena’s death. And as she became her own person instead of hiding behind her insecurities.
Ben: The Void. Never in my life have I wanted to take a character out of a story, wrap them in a blanket, and give them a hug. He went through just about every emotion throughout the book and was one of my favorite characters.
None of these poor characters deserved what they got but I loved the found family nonetheless.
TW’s: murder (duh), a lot of family issues, betrayal, scheming, violence (+ blood), some graphic depictions of horrifying spells, and creepy familiar things (though I really liked them)
Final Thoughts: I’m interested in seeing where this series goes!
“For our parents, who first helped us pass the magic threshold of a place called Bookstore.”
Thank you so much to NetGalley and publishers for my e-arc of this!!!
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
General Summary (spoiler free): I was sold on this book solely based off of the wednesday x one of us is lying description but it also felt kind of hogwarts to me (which I loved!) The beginning part of this didn’t have me sold but all of the characters and their arcs were very unique and well written. The world building is very well thought out and intentional for the plot. I also really liked the setting of Deepgrove it felt fitting for the story. There were a lot of turns throughout the book in trying to find the true murderer, and I thought the character’s nickname of The Coven of Death was pretty funny.
Characters (multi pov): Alice, Christopher, Delvy, and Ben
Alice: The outcast, the Foreteller. I grew to like her throughout the book as she grew and uncovered the secrets of Xena’s death while learning to understand her own gift.
Christopher: The Heir, sometimes called Crane (his last name) At first I really didn’t like him but his redemption arc was well written and by the end I liked him a lot more than I thought I would.
Delvy: The best friend. I loved watching her grow throughout the book and her friendship with the other characters in wake of Xena’s death. And as she became her own person instead of hiding behind her insecurities.
Ben: The Void. Never in my life have I wanted to take a character out of a story, wrap them in a blanket, and give them a hug. He went through just about every emotion throughout the book and was one of my favorite characters.
None of these poor characters deserved what they got but I loved the found family nonetheless.
TW’s: murder (duh), a lot of family issues, betrayal, scheming, violence (+ blood), some graphic depictions of horrifying spells, and creepy familiar things (though I really liked them)
Final Thoughts: I’m interested in seeing where this series goes!
“For our parents, who first helped us pass the magic threshold of a place called Bookstore.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
You think you’ll guess who did it. Think again.
Gravespell was my #1 read for 2027, so, imagine my utter delight when, this week, I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Magic truly exists and is the string that seamlessly interwove four PoVs into a heart-pounding, jaw-dropping tale of mage students who would have never crossed paths if it hadn’t been for the daughter of the American President of Magic (better said, the lack of her).
Right from the start you are submerged into ‘the greatest mage school in the American Grand Arch’, buried deep beneath our cities like the entire mage world. It’s a Tuesday and you follow Alice down the magically-lit corridors after having received a cryptid message from the most popular girl, with whom Alice hadn’t exchanged many words—well, aside from when Alice told her that she’s going to die. And now Alice, the outcast, finds herself embroiled with three notorious students in this miss popularity’s murder case.
The writing is bestspelling. Devastatingly so (my perturbed sleep schedule can attest to it). It charms you into lowering your defenses, even when you’re swaddled in them. ‘It’s just another murder case in an Academy setting. What can be so amazing?’ you say. You try to cling onto those shields, futilely so, when Alice grazes it with her sharp humor, Christopher scoffs at the pathetic attempt, Delvy gives you a sympathetic smile for having tried, and Ben assesses your next moves, ready to strike harder into your just-softened heart.
I finished it in one day and a half. (after I purposefully paced myself!)
I have to show some decorum I told myself, like a toddler left to oversee the candyshop. But my will was chipped away at every turn of the page ‘just one more. It’ll be the last one’ and it never was. I've been hexed, I tell you!
I sipped every line filled with witty quips, well-timed jokes and intricate worldbuilding. I gulped down their personal tragedies, the grief they had to carry on their young shoulders bent by the weight of their books and studies, and rejoiced at the heartfelt moments they shared, and the laughter that came even when their faces were still puffy from crying. It was inspiring to see how they kept on pushing onwards, striving to persevere despite everything that was coming their way (and I DO mean EVERYTHING).
Should you read it? Hmm…only if you want your heart to pound like crazy while you grip the edge of your seat, too immersed in those pages to even lift your head to properly reach for the tissue box. You get to live the confusing experience of bursting out in laughter while your vision is still blurred by unshed tears!
I would also like to make a note on the inclusion of Romanian folklore elements in the story. It was so neatly done. Those insertions were the cherries on the top of this bittersweet cake. And I am saying this as someone who (being Romanian) usually skips paragraphs in which there are insertions about Romania/Transylvania because they usually make me cringe. TOTALLY not the case here! I got to feel for the first time excitement to read about tidbits related to my country’s myths and customs and each time they made me grin and giggle like a fool.
Want to Read
November 24, 2025Okay - where do we sign up to read this ?
July 3, 2026
I absolutely loved Gravespell
This was such a special read for me because it’s the first book I’ve ever read by Romanian authors, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience.
The writing is incredibly engaging and flows effortlessly, making it almost impossible to put the book down. The plot is well crafted, and I was genuinely surprised by several of the twists along the way. Every reveal felt earned, and the story kept me hooked from beginning to end.
While some of the character dynamics may feel familiar to fantasy readers, the authors managed to give them their own unique charm through thoughtful details and strong character moments.
My absolute favorite part, though, was the incorporation of Romanian folklore and superstitions. Those elements added so much atmosphere and made the world feel fresh and distinctive. As a Romanian reader, it was incredibly exciting to see pieces of my own culture woven so naturally into the story.
For a debut novel, Gravespell exceeded all of my expectations. I’m also incredibly proud to be part of this book’s Street Team and to support such a fantastic release.
If you’re looking for a fantasy with an engaging plot, unexpected twists, memorable characters, and a touch of Romanian folklore, I can’t recommend this one enough. I truly hope you’ll give it a chance—you won’t regret it!
This was such a special read for me because it’s the first book I’ve ever read by Romanian authors, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience.
The writing is incredibly engaging and flows effortlessly, making it almost impossible to put the book down. The plot is well crafted, and I was genuinely surprised by several of the twists along the way. Every reveal felt earned, and the story kept me hooked from beginning to end.
While some of the character dynamics may feel familiar to fantasy readers, the authors managed to give them their own unique charm through thoughtful details and strong character moments.
My absolute favorite part, though, was the incorporation of Romanian folklore and superstitions. Those elements added so much atmosphere and made the world feel fresh and distinctive. As a Romanian reader, it was incredibly exciting to see pieces of my own culture woven so naturally into the story.
For a debut novel, Gravespell exceeded all of my expectations. I’m also incredibly proud to be part of this book’s Street Team and to support such a fantastic release.
If you’re looking for a fantasy with an engaging plot, unexpected twists, memorable characters, and a touch of Romanian folklore, I can’t recommend this one enough. I truly hope you’ll give it a chance—you won’t regret it!
November 19, 2025
Currently rewatching the Harry Potter series with my partner so I’m *very* excited to read this! Female main character, wizards, magic and a mystery to solve?? I’m sat.
ps: i’ve been following Elizabeth Sagan’s bookstagram for the last 7 years and she’s the one who recommended ‘The Invisible life of Addie LaRue’ and helped me come out of a major reading slump 3 years ago so I’ll read anything she comes out with
ps: i’ve been following Elizabeth Sagan’s bookstagram for the last 7 years and she’s the one who recommended ‘The Invisible life of Addie LaRue’ and helped me come out of a major reading slump 3 years ago so I’ll read anything she comes out with
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Sourcebooks Fire and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was so, so excited for Gravespell, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a book that simply wasn't for me. Despite giving it a fair chance, finishing it only confirmed that I won't be continuing with the series.
The writing often felt awkward, almost as though the book had been translated from another language. Certain sentence structures and word choices disrupted the pacing and atmosphere, making it difficult to immerse myself in the story.
The multiple POVs were another major frustration. Most switches added nothing new, often revisiting the same scene without offering a fresh perspective. The characters' voices were so similar that I frequently didn't even notice when the POV had changed. Introducing so many seemingly important characters only to focus primarily on Alice and Chris made those additional perspectives feel even more unnecessary.
The plot was painfully predictable, with a murder "mystery" that was far too easy to solve and ultimately felt like background noise to Alice and Chris's developing relationship. Even at under 400 pages, the story struggled to hold my attention, and the obvious similarities to a certain popular magical school universe only added to my frustration.
Overall, Gravespell was a disappointing read filled with awkward writing, unnecessary POV switches, and an underwhelming mystery. I genuinely wanted to enjoy it, but instead found myself rolling my eyes far more often than I'd like to admit.
I was so, so excited for Gravespell, but unfortunately, it turned out to be a book that simply wasn't for me. Despite giving it a fair chance, finishing it only confirmed that I won't be continuing with the series.
The writing often felt awkward, almost as though the book had been translated from another language. Certain sentence structures and word choices disrupted the pacing and atmosphere, making it difficult to immerse myself in the story.
The multiple POVs were another major frustration. Most switches added nothing new, often revisiting the same scene without offering a fresh perspective. The characters' voices were so similar that I frequently didn't even notice when the POV had changed. Introducing so many seemingly important characters only to focus primarily on Alice and Chris made those additional perspectives feel even more unnecessary.
The plot was painfully predictable, with a murder "mystery" that was far too easy to solve and ultimately felt like background noise to Alice and Chris's developing relationship. Even at under 400 pages, the story struggled to hold my attention, and the obvious similarities to a certain popular magical school universe only added to my frustration.
Overall, Gravespell was a disappointing read filled with awkward writing, unnecessary POV switches, and an underwhelming mystery. I genuinely wanted to enjoy it, but instead found myself rolling my eyes far more often than I'd like to admit.
July 8, 2026
3,5⭐️
Review of advanced readers copy from Netgalley
🪄First of all, I wanna thank Netgalley and the authors, James and Elizabeth, for trusting me with their baby.
“Gravespell” is their debut ya fantasy novel and I expect great stories from them.
This one was just the beginning…
🪄We’re thrown right into the action, from the very first chapter, is fast paced and you have to keep up with all the events, so you won’t miss a thing. That’s the catch here… if you don’t keep up, well… your loss…
Every chapter comes with another revelation or not? 🫢, the multiple perspectives offer different angles from which you can see the story. Who to trust or not trust, how relationships were build before the murder and after, because even though Alice, Ben, Delvy and Christopher have nothing in common but the fact that they’re all suspects in Xena’s murder, this four students unite to solve the mystery and prove that they’re innocent.
🪄Alice was my favorite character from this story. I liked her sarcasm, that she didn’t wanted to display an image of who she wasn’t or that she could easily be played as a fool. I liked the friendship she had with Vlad, the Romanian student, and that they trusted each other most of the times. I even liked her familiar, though i’m not a fan of snakes 🐍 🫣.
🪄I felt sorry for the others- Ben, Christopher and Delvy - because they were seen as nothing more than Xena’s something and it was expected from them to act in certain ways. They were caught in the middle of nastiness, and even though they proved they are trust worthy, there was always something that stood in their way.
🪄I liked the idea of the story, the mystery vibes, the Romanian references (it felt like a piece of home 🥰), but I wanted more of the magical world and from the found family trope. This is just a personal preference, not that it was something wrong with the story. I’m fond of the found family trope and I do want one built chef’s kiss when I stumble upon it on books.
🪄Another issue, if I can say like that, that I had, was with the characters’s ages. They were 15-16 years old, but acted like 18 years old, even had some lines that didn’t sound at all teenager like. And that confused me a couple of times while reading.
🪄The story was also predictable for me; I suspected some of the plots and that ruined the element of surprise, but I think this happened because I’ve read so many books over the years and there are few things that surprise me in books anymore.
🪄There were some moments when I had my heart in my throat, but I’m not gonna say when and where, because I want that you to have your heart pounding like crazy too 🤣.
🪄Even so, I do recommend with all my heart “Gravespell” and I’m looking forward to find out how the story will develop in the upcoming books, but also what the authors have prepared for the characters 🫢.
Review of advanced readers copy from Netgalley
🪄First of all, I wanna thank Netgalley and the authors, James and Elizabeth, for trusting me with their baby.
“Gravespell” is their debut ya fantasy novel and I expect great stories from them.
This one was just the beginning…
🪄We’re thrown right into the action, from the very first chapter, is fast paced and you have to keep up with all the events, so you won’t miss a thing. That’s the catch here… if you don’t keep up, well… your loss…
Every chapter comes with another revelation or not? 🫢, the multiple perspectives offer different angles from which you can see the story. Who to trust or not trust, how relationships were build before the murder and after, because even though Alice, Ben, Delvy and Christopher have nothing in common but the fact that they’re all suspects in Xena’s murder, this four students unite to solve the mystery and prove that they’re innocent.
🪄Alice was my favorite character from this story. I liked her sarcasm, that she didn’t wanted to display an image of who she wasn’t or that she could easily be played as a fool. I liked the friendship she had with Vlad, the Romanian student, and that they trusted each other most of the times. I even liked her familiar, though i’m not a fan of snakes 🐍 🫣.
🪄I felt sorry for the others- Ben, Christopher and Delvy - because they were seen as nothing more than Xena’s something and it was expected from them to act in certain ways. They were caught in the middle of nastiness, and even though they proved they are trust worthy, there was always something that stood in their way.
🪄I liked the idea of the story, the mystery vibes, the Romanian references (it felt like a piece of home 🥰), but I wanted more of the magical world and from the found family trope. This is just a personal preference, not that it was something wrong with the story. I’m fond of the found family trope and I do want one built chef’s kiss when I stumble upon it on books.
🪄Another issue, if I can say like that, that I had, was with the characters’s ages. They were 15-16 years old, but acted like 18 years old, even had some lines that didn’t sound at all teenager like. And that confused me a couple of times while reading.
🪄The story was also predictable for me; I suspected some of the plots and that ruined the element of surprise, but I think this happened because I’ve read so many books over the years and there are few things that surprise me in books anymore.
🪄There were some moments when I had my heart in my throat, but I’m not gonna say when and where, because I want that you to have your heart pounding like crazy too 🤣.
🪄Even so, I do recommend with all my heart “Gravespell” and I’m looking forward to find out how the story will develop in the upcoming books, but also what the authors have prepared for the characters 🫢.
August 12, 2026
I read an advanced copy thanks to the authors and NetGalley.
This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. A mix of dark fantasy and mystery thriller full of plot twists and magic, set in a modern school for wizards, incredible world-building and an epic adventure, written so brilliantly! You cannot stop reading it once you started, despite the long chapters because you don’t even feel them.
I wish I could tell you more, but it is better to wait until it is published and you all have the pleasure to discover this amazing YA debut and the first in a series.
This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. A mix of dark fantasy and mystery thriller full of plot twists and magic, set in a modern school for wizards, incredible world-building and an epic adventure, written so brilliantly! You cannot stop reading it once you started, despite the long chapters because you don’t even feel them.
I wish I could tell you more, but it is better to wait until it is published and you all have the pleasure to discover this amazing YA debut and the first in a series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
YA Fantasy (yet I'm 64!) 🫶
Did you ever read a book so fast that when you were done, you wanted to start right over again? Gravespell did that too me.
From the 1st chapter we have action. A fun, fast-paced drama.
Four students (who dont get along) at a modern magic school find they must work together to solve a mystery.
No spoilers here. I went in blind and so should you. I didn't see the ending coming, so now I must reread to pick up clues!
Well done, James and Elizabeth on your debut novel.
Did you ever read a book so fast that when you were done, you wanted to start right over again? Gravespell did that too me.
From the 1st chapter we have action. A fun, fast-paced drama.
Four students (who dont get along) at a modern magic school find they must work together to solve a mystery.
No spoilers here. I went in blind and so should you. I didn't see the ending coming, so now I must reread to pick up clues!
Well done, James and Elizabeth on your debut novel.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"Is it love if you love someone only when that someone is who you want them to be?"
În primul rând, vreau să le mulțumesc autorilor @elizabeth_sagan, @james_trevino pentru oportunitatea de a citi cartea lor de debut, "Gravespell", ce va fi lansată oficial în aprilie 2027 (traducerea în română, la ledaedge) și pentru șansa de a face parte din #streetteam. Este o onoare!
Am pornit în această aventură plină de entuziasm și nerăbdătoare să descopăr acest prim volum din seria "Mages & Muder", o serie YA dark academy/fantasy cu accente puternice de thriller! Am pășit pe holurile Academiei de magie Deepgrove, curioasă să mă alătur celor 4 personaje principale, Alice, Ben, Chris & Delvy în eforturile lor de a rezolva misterul morții colegei lor, Xena, fiica uneia dintre cele mai importante și influente figuri din lumea magică. Și ce investigații, comploturi, secrete și jocuri de putere se petrec înlăuntrul academiei! Cei 4 nu sunt doar simpli colegi ai Xenei, dar și principalii suspecţi, legăturile lor cu aceasta ducând la nenumărate piste și teorii.
Mi-a plăcut enorm lumea creată, sistemul magic ce mi-a amintit de Harry Potter, lupta dintre cei născuți cu magie și cei născuți fără, găselnița referitoare la magia tradițională vs. magia creată prin tehnologie, referirile despre o Americă fictivă în care cei considerați "diferiți", trebuie alungați, exterminați, etc. Am apreciat perspectivele multiple ale personajelor, prin care ajungem să cunoaştem temerile, năzuințele, secretele celor 4. Am fost încântată să găsesc multe referințe despre țara noastră, prin prisma lui Vlad, studentul străin și al lui familiar înspăimântător. Personajul meu favorit rămâne, însă, Alice, datorita inteligenței sale, a adorabilului ei sarcasm și a faptului că este un personaj autentic, cu coloană vertebrală. Foarte mult mi-a plăcut și de Keziah Hale, e o figură deosebită! Sunt mândră că am reușit să rezolv corect o parte din misterul morţii Xenei, însă, până în final, am avut parte de alte dezvăluiri la care nici nu visam!
Cu drag ii ofer nota maximă, căci lumea creată este reușită, personajele sunt atent creionate, iar stilul de scriere este acaparant. Aștept cu nerăbdare continuarea ! Felicitări autorilor pentru această carte magică!
În primul rând, vreau să le mulțumesc autorilor @elizabeth_sagan, @james_trevino pentru oportunitatea de a citi cartea lor de debut, "Gravespell", ce va fi lansată oficial în aprilie 2027 (traducerea în română, la ledaedge) și pentru șansa de a face parte din #streetteam. Este o onoare!
Am pornit în această aventură plină de entuziasm și nerăbdătoare să descopăr acest prim volum din seria "Mages & Muder", o serie YA dark academy/fantasy cu accente puternice de thriller! Am pășit pe holurile Academiei de magie Deepgrove, curioasă să mă alătur celor 4 personaje principale, Alice, Ben, Chris & Delvy în eforturile lor de a rezolva misterul morții colegei lor, Xena, fiica uneia dintre cele mai importante și influente figuri din lumea magică. Și ce investigații, comploturi, secrete și jocuri de putere se petrec înlăuntrul academiei! Cei 4 nu sunt doar simpli colegi ai Xenei, dar și principalii suspecţi, legăturile lor cu aceasta ducând la nenumărate piste și teorii.
Mi-a plăcut enorm lumea creată, sistemul magic ce mi-a amintit de Harry Potter, lupta dintre cei născuți cu magie și cei născuți fără, găselnița referitoare la magia tradițională vs. magia creată prin tehnologie, referirile despre o Americă fictivă în care cei considerați "diferiți", trebuie alungați, exterminați, etc. Am apreciat perspectivele multiple ale personajelor, prin care ajungem să cunoaştem temerile, năzuințele, secretele celor 4. Am fost încântată să găsesc multe referințe despre țara noastră, prin prisma lui Vlad, studentul străin și al lui familiar înspăimântător. Personajul meu favorit rămâne, însă, Alice, datorita inteligenței sale, a adorabilului ei sarcasm și a faptului că este un personaj autentic, cu coloană vertebrală. Foarte mult mi-a plăcut și de Keziah Hale, e o figură deosebită! Sunt mândră că am reușit să rezolv corect o parte din misterul morţii Xenei, însă, până în final, am avut parte de alte dezvăluiri la care nici nu visam!
Cu drag ii ofer nota maximă, căci lumea creată este reușită, personajele sunt atent creionate, iar stilul de scriere este acaparant. Aștept cu nerăbdare continuarea ! Felicitări autorilor pentru această carte magică!
September 17, 2026
A masterclass in magic, suspense, mystery and murder. James and Elizabeth wove a tangled web that perfectly balanced a magical world with a twisty murder mystery. Then hit us with even more mysteries as the story unfolded.
Xena is murdered at Deepgrove Academy for Magic. Then Alice, Delvy, Chris and Ben finds her body and are immediately the main suspects. They band together to try to figure out who killed Xena.
I would have loved to learn more about the magic and what the classes entailed, but we will get more books for that, so I'll do my best to be patient.
The characters are all unique, flawed, and has such incredible character growth throughout this book. I loved seeing these characters learning to trust each other as the plot progressed. Oh, and Vlad is the best bestie ever!
It's going to be a struggle waiting for book 2, since book 1 isn't even out yet, but this book is so worth it! Fans of Harry Potter, Wednesday, and a good YA murder mystery will love this! Pre-order now to get a stunning deluxe edition!
Xena is murdered at Deepgrove Academy for Magic. Then Alice, Delvy, Chris and Ben finds her body and are immediately the main suspects. They band together to try to figure out who killed Xena.
I would have loved to learn more about the magic and what the classes entailed, but we will get more books for that, so I'll do my best to be patient.
The characters are all unique, flawed, and has such incredible character growth throughout this book. I loved seeing these characters learning to trust each other as the plot progressed. Oh, and Vlad is the best bestie ever!
It's going to be a struggle waiting for book 2, since book 1 isn't even out yet, but this book is so worth it! Fans of Harry Potter, Wednesday, and a good YA murder mystery will love this! Pre-order now to get a stunning deluxe edition!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Gravespell was an interesting dark academia read with magic in a modern-day world and a murder mystery that kept the story feeling alive and guessing all the clues.
The Magtech in this story was cool to explore and I thought these spell wand phones were an interesting touch to the story.
I just had a hard time grasping the information and how the story flowed, especially with the multiple POVs. I got a bit confused when we would jump between one character and another, as I felt the story didn’t add up or make sense sometimes? Idk it was something I feel could have gone through more edits, but the story still kept me invested to find out the ending.
Glad I got the chance to read this one early as it’s promising for sure!
The Magtech in this story was cool to explore and I thought these spell wand phones were an interesting touch to the story.
I just had a hard time grasping the information and how the story flowed, especially with the multiple POVs. I got a bit confused when we would jump between one character and another, as I felt the story didn’t add up or make sense sometimes? Idk it was something I feel could have gone through more edits, but the story still kept me invested to find out the ending.
Glad I got the chance to read this one early as it’s promising for sure!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and the authors for a chance to read this eArc. I enjoyed it, the characters were decent. The story really hooked me from the beginning. I enjoyed the world building that was done very well.
I wish I felt a bit more overall, there is a lot of politics in here which is fine but left me a little detached to the characters and everything over all.
It a well writen book, with a great premise. The ending was okay for me but not mind blowing. I think to other witchy book lovers this could be rated higher so I'd still recommend this book for a cosy magical read.
I wish I felt a bit more overall, there is a lot of politics in here which is fine but left me a little detached to the characters and everything over all.
It a well writen book, with a great premise. The ending was okay for me but not mind blowing. I think to other witchy book lovers this could be rated higher so I'd still recommend this book for a cosy magical read.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
This was a good ya mystery. The characters are good and the mystery is well constructed if a bit predictable. It's fast paced, and the writing is quite simple.
Overall I enjoyed it.
Thank you Edelweiss and Sourcebooks Fire for the ARC.
Overall I enjoyed it.
Thank you Edelweiss and Sourcebooks Fire for the ARC.
October 9, 2026
This book was so good I literally couldn’t put it down! I love the multiple POVs, the YA drama, the unique magic system, and the shocking ending! No spoilers here all I’m going to say is if you get to the last four chapters be ready to not be able to physically put the book down!
February 6, 2026
This book was everything I thought it would be and more. I expected a great, amazingly written book, but I did not know what the style would be like. I was nervous. I now understand I was nervous in anticipation of reading one of the best books I've ever read. And it's "only" their debut, SO CAN YOU IMAGINE?
The world building is exceptional. All the beautiful, magical ideas and concepts intertwine perfectly, creating this vibrant world full of like. I had moments when I wondered, what if it actually is real? What if underneath our feet, this vast world actually does exist!
The characters are wonderul, and I loved how real they felt. We have several POVs that are so thoroughly distinct that by the end of it, I had separate voices in my head for each character.
All of the characters have these well structured, developing arcs that are so naturally paced, that it sparked this joy of finally reading a fantasy book where the characters seem so real, that the world in itself becomes real.
--- POSSIBLE SPOILERS
The worldbuilding of the academy was incredible. The myths and legends, the imagery, from bioluminescent flowers and gargoyles to saying thank you to the ghosts preparing the meal. A joy. Exquisite.
I found my old self in the old Delvy, and then with each chapter she evolves and comes into herself, it reminded me so much of myself in the best, weirdest, possible way. I am so proud of her!
Ben is an innocent cutie patoot that went through too much and didn't deserve any of it. I hope he gets to kick several asses in the next book.
The slow burn, enemies to lovers trope was exceptionally cosy and cute. They don't jump their bones from the moment they see each other and I APPRECIATE THAT. Their chemistry grows and builds and I did giggle and kick my feet repeatedly. I also love Alice and Chris together. And individually. Alice is a badass, powerful mage, but humble. She doesn't know how cool she is. Chris is not afraid to open his eyes, look around him and make the hard decision. They're great people. I want to be part of their Coven of Death and Vlad.
Vlad. My brother Vlad, because we are both Romanians. Seeing our beautiful culture interwebbed in Liz and James's story was wonderful. From strigoi, blood spells and zacusca, to Baba Cloanta, Dochia and the Merry Cemetery (which I have to say is better in the book that in real life). It was brilliantly and cleverly done, and each romanian element (especially the deochi) made me smile and laugh. I also loved what a pivotal role Vlad had. As he should.
As for the most important part that impressed me and I did not expect, that would be the worldbuilding outside the academy. The way it mirrors our own world in beauty and cruelty. I wish i was told as a child that the world is full of wonders, but that evil exists. That there is corruption, and prejudice and pain. That there are people in power who always want more. The book reflected that, and more. It showed both the beauty and the flaws of the world we were introduced to. And i hope that as many young adults as possible will read this and realise what is most important in life. To not judge. To help one another. To be kind. Just like the lovely characters I had the honour to meet in this book.
Thank you, Liz and James, for creating this wonderful world. I cannot put this book in a top of something. It is unique for me, I will wear it in my soul from now on, like my most beloved books. And i cannot wait for the next one.
The world building is exceptional. All the beautiful, magical ideas and concepts intertwine perfectly, creating this vibrant world full of like. I had moments when I wondered, what if it actually is real? What if underneath our feet, this vast world actually does exist!
The characters are wonderul, and I loved how real they felt. We have several POVs that are so thoroughly distinct that by the end of it, I had separate voices in my head for each character.
All of the characters have these well structured, developing arcs that are so naturally paced, that it sparked this joy of finally reading a fantasy book where the characters seem so real, that the world in itself becomes real.
--- POSSIBLE SPOILERS
The worldbuilding of the academy was incredible. The myths and legends, the imagery, from bioluminescent flowers and gargoyles to saying thank you to the ghosts preparing the meal. A joy. Exquisite.
I found my old self in the old Delvy, and then with each chapter she evolves and comes into herself, it reminded me so much of myself in the best, weirdest, possible way. I am so proud of her!
Ben is an innocent cutie patoot that went through too much and didn't deserve any of it. I hope he gets to kick several asses in the next book.
The slow burn, enemies to lovers trope was exceptionally cosy and cute. They don't jump their bones from the moment they see each other and I APPRECIATE THAT. Their chemistry grows and builds and I did giggle and kick my feet repeatedly. I also love Alice and Chris together. And individually. Alice is a badass, powerful mage, but humble. She doesn't know how cool she is. Chris is not afraid to open his eyes, look around him and make the hard decision. They're great people. I want to be part of their Coven of Death and Vlad.
Vlad. My brother Vlad, because we are both Romanians. Seeing our beautiful culture interwebbed in Liz and James's story was wonderful. From strigoi, blood spells and zacusca, to Baba Cloanta, Dochia and the Merry Cemetery (which I have to say is better in the book that in real life). It was brilliantly and cleverly done, and each romanian element (especially the deochi) made me smile and laugh. I also loved what a pivotal role Vlad had. As he should.
As for the most important part that impressed me and I did not expect, that would be the worldbuilding outside the academy. The way it mirrors our own world in beauty and cruelty. I wish i was told as a child that the world is full of wonders, but that evil exists. That there is corruption, and prejudice and pain. That there are people in power who always want more. The book reflected that, and more. It showed both the beauty and the flaws of the world we were introduced to. And i hope that as many young adults as possible will read this and realise what is most important in life. To not judge. To help one another. To be kind. Just like the lovely characters I had the honour to meet in this book.
Thank you, Liz and James, for creating this wonderful world. I cannot put this book in a top of something. It is unique for me, I will wear it in my soul from now on, like my most beloved books. And i cannot wait for the next one.
August 16, 2026
Gravespell este povestea unei societăți magice în declin din cauza luptei pentru putere, mai ales în contextul unei magii exploatate de corporații dornice de mai mult, tot mai mult, totul văzut prin ochii unor tineri elevi, implicați fără voie într-o anchetă care vizează moartea unei tinere care le-a fost prietenă, iubită, un alt fel de soră.
Patru personaje principale, patru perspective dinamice, 4 versiuni ale unei povești despre aceeași persoană și societate, trăite atât de personal și divers încât nu ar fi avut nicio șansă să se intersecteze dacă nu ar fi fost acest incident care să-i aducă împreună.
În loc ca mărturiile lor să conteze, mai tare îi acuza. În loc să se susțină, se dezbină, înainte de a înțelege că societate e pregătită să-i exileze.
Un război mediatic, un joc de putere care nu ia pauză, o poveste despre prietenie, familie și puterea de a fi cine trebuie, dincolo de tot ce ai crezut ca trebuie să fii, raportat la ce ți-au spus alții.
Un univers magic magistral conceput, o academie plină de surprize, personaje carismatice, realist concepute, un sistem politic dureros de ancorat în realitatea din zilele noastre, o magie care se poate termina când dorința de mai mult nu contenește.
O poveste în care ne reamintim că magia e în noi, e iubire, e familie, e experiența și curaj de a lupta pentru ceva mai bun și mai frumos.
Patru personaje principale, patru perspective dinamice, 4 versiuni ale unei povești despre aceeași persoană și societate, trăite atât de personal și divers încât nu ar fi avut nicio șansă să se intersecteze dacă nu ar fi fost acest incident care să-i aducă împreună.
În loc ca mărturiile lor să conteze, mai tare îi acuza. În loc să se susțină, se dezbină, înainte de a înțelege că societate e pregătită să-i exileze.
Un război mediatic, un joc de putere care nu ia pauză, o poveste despre prietenie, familie și puterea de a fi cine trebuie, dincolo de tot ce ai crezut ca trebuie să fii, raportat la ce ți-au spus alții.
Un univers magic magistral conceput, o academie plină de surprize, personaje carismatice, realist concepute, un sistem politic dureros de ancorat în realitatea din zilele noastre, o magie care se poate termina când dorința de mai mult nu contenește.
O poveste în care ne reamintim că magia e în noi, e iubire, e familie, e experiența și curaj de a lupta pentru ceva mai bun și mai frumos.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
STOP SCROLLING because I just found your next 5-star obsession! 😁
Elizabeth and James did an absolutely phenomenal job and I am beyond thrilled and 100% sure that this book is going to be the next big thing! I am incredibly honored to have had the chance to play even a small part in their amazing success story. I just know that years from now, when this series wraps up and is wildly popular, I’ll be so incredibly proud to look back and say I got to read the ARC of the debut volume 🥹
What I completely adored was the constant nod to Romania, its customs, traditions, and even famous landmarks, masterfully woven into a magic school setting. We’ve got fantasy, thriller and romance, all blended together flawlessly! I was totally clueless about the culprit and couldn’t come up with a single theory, I was right there with the characters, completely blown away by every single twist and turn! The characters growth is stunning, you feel their desires and motivations so deeply, and you just can't help but fall in love with every single one of them.The ending left me a bit mind blown and confused, but dying to jump into the next book immediately, so it absolutely nailed its mission!
Elizabeth and James did an absolutely phenomenal job and I am beyond thrilled and 100% sure that this book is going to be the next big thing! I am incredibly honored to have had the chance to play even a small part in their amazing success story. I just know that years from now, when this series wraps up and is wildly popular, I’ll be so incredibly proud to look back and say I got to read the ARC of the debut volume 🥹
What I completely adored was the constant nod to Romania, its customs, traditions, and even famous landmarks, masterfully woven into a magic school setting. We’ve got fantasy, thriller and romance, all blended together flawlessly! I was totally clueless about the culprit and couldn’t come up with a single theory, I was right there with the characters, completely blown away by every single twist and turn! The characters growth is stunning, you feel their desires and motivations so deeply, and you just can't help but fall in love with every single one of them.The ending left me a bit mind blown and confused, but dying to jump into the next book immediately, so it absolutely nailed its mission!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing this arc! 💜✨
This novel was something I was really looking forward to, ever since I saw on James and Elizabeth's social media that it was coming out. And it did not disappoint me in the slightest.
The story grabbed my attention right away. Alice, Christopher, Ben and Delvy and Vlad were incredible characters to follow. I felt each of their arcs showed real growth, especially Christopher's.
I enjoyed the mystery at the centre of the story. It was compelling and written in a way that made me want to keep reading just so the knot that it was would unravel and I would get some answers.
What solidified this as a great universe for me was the saturation of the world. There was everything. Technology, flora, fauna, socio-political and geographical lore that I found so interesting I'd read a whole novella about the different magical empires. There were, also, so many elements that felt so fresh. There's plenty of stories set in magical academies, but Trevino and Sagan really made theirs stand out. Despite there being so many world-building elements, I never felt buried or overwhelmed by them. It made me genuinely think of all the ways this world could expand. Every brush with an element of the world the reader gets, made me genuinely stop and wonder about that area of the world a little more.
Also, a heartfelt thing for me was Vlad's entire character. I know both Sagan and Trevino are Romanian, and as a Balkan girl, it was such a comfort seeing food, customs, and superstitions I grew up with on page, and in such a beautiful story.
The character relationships were also a wonderful part of this novel. Whether it's romance, friendship, or parent-children relationships, they were written thoughtfully and realistically. The found family aspect of it was really heartwarming.
I'd also like to add that this book reminded me so much of why I love reading. I'd put it down, go do something and all the while I'm secretly counting down the minutes until I can pick this book up again. It was such a wonderful reading experience as well.
Final thoughts: This was such a good book. Despite it being a modern fantasy, which I don't so much enjoy, this one didn't make it it's mission to make me believe it was happening in the real world. It made one of its own, and one so compelling I fell in love with it instantly. Highest and warmest of recommendations💜🐍
This novel was something I was really looking forward to, ever since I saw on James and Elizabeth's social media that it was coming out. And it did not disappoint me in the slightest.
The story grabbed my attention right away. Alice, Christopher, Ben and Delvy and Vlad were incredible characters to follow. I felt each of their arcs showed real growth, especially Christopher's.
I enjoyed the mystery at the centre of the story. It was compelling and written in a way that made me want to keep reading just so the knot that it was would unravel and I would get some answers.
What solidified this as a great universe for me was the saturation of the world. There was everything. Technology, flora, fauna, socio-political and geographical lore that I found so interesting I'd read a whole novella about the different magical empires. There were, also, so many elements that felt so fresh. There's plenty of stories set in magical academies, but Trevino and Sagan really made theirs stand out. Despite there being so many world-building elements, I never felt buried or overwhelmed by them. It made me genuinely think of all the ways this world could expand. Every brush with an element of the world the reader gets, made me genuinely stop and wonder about that area of the world a little more.
Also, a heartfelt thing for me was Vlad's entire character. I know both Sagan and Trevino are Romanian, and as a Balkan girl, it was such a comfort seeing food, customs, and superstitions I grew up with on page, and in such a beautiful story.
The character relationships were also a wonderful part of this novel. Whether it's romance, friendship, or parent-children relationships, they were written thoughtfully and realistically. The found family aspect of it was really heartwarming.
I'd also like to add that this book reminded me so much of why I love reading. I'd put it down, go do something and all the while I'm secretly counting down the minutes until I can pick this book up again. It was such a wonderful reading experience as well.
Final thoughts: This was such a good book. Despite it being a modern fantasy, which I don't so much enjoy, this one didn't make it it's mission to make me believe it was happening in the real world. It made one of its own, and one so compelling I fell in love with it instantly. Highest and warmest of recommendations💜🐍
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First, thank you, NetGalley and Sourcebooks Fire, for letting me get an e-ARC of this book in exchange for a honest review.
4.25/5 — stars
This book is an acquired taste. Until the 20% mark, I was bored, and I seriously considered DNFing it. I really hate DNFing books, so for me to even consider it means that a book is really boring me. But I pushed through, and I’m so happy I did! Around the 30% mark, it became addictive. I couldn’t stay away from my Kindle, and whenever I wasn’t reading, I found myself thinking about the book.
It accomplished something I don’t often see in books with multiple POVs: they all kept me equally interested.
I began enjoying reading with the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson books, so this felt like going back to my roots. It really felt like a Harry Potter / Jennifer Barnes book.
The resolution was so good. I predicted the ending, but not until well into the book, and I still enjoyed it.
My only issues were, first, the slow beginning; second, a few words that felt a bit too middle grade; and third, the fact that there are 16 chapters, each with around three POV changes. I think I would have preferred each POV to have its own chapter, making it around 46 chapters instead, but that’s just a formatting preference.
One very important thing: if you like reading the table of contents, don’t do it with this book, as it contains a big spoiler.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable book! I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys mysteries and YA books. It left a few things unresolved, and I’m so excited to see that there are going to be two more books.
- Multiple POVs
- Academy setting
- Magic
- Secrets
4.25/5 — stars
This book is an acquired taste. Until the 20% mark, I was bored, and I seriously considered DNFing it. I really hate DNFing books, so for me to even consider it means that a book is really boring me. But I pushed through, and I’m so happy I did! Around the 30% mark, it became addictive. I couldn’t stay away from my Kindle, and whenever I wasn’t reading, I found myself thinking about the book.
It accomplished something I don’t often see in books with multiple POVs: they all kept me equally interested.
I began enjoying reading with the Harry Potter and Percy Jackson books, so this felt like going back to my roots. It really felt like a Harry Potter / Jennifer Barnes book.
The resolution was so good. I predicted the ending, but not until well into the book, and I still enjoyed it.
My only issues were, first, the slow beginning; second, a few words that felt a bit too middle grade; and third, the fact that there are 16 chapters, each with around three POV changes. I think I would have preferred each POV to have its own chapter, making it around 46 chapters instead, but that’s just a formatting preference.
One very important thing: if you like reading the table of contents, don’t do it with this book, as it contains a big spoiler.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable book! I would recommend it to anyone who enjoys mysteries and YA books. It left a few things unresolved, and I’m so excited to see that there are going to be two more books.
- Multiple POVs
- Academy setting
- Magic
- Secrets
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book had me hooked from the very beginning! I loved how fantasy and mystery intertwined, the witty writing, and the world-building. Some characters initially seemed flawed or downright unlikable, but by the end, I found myself feeling for them and rooting for them as they fought their own inner battles.
I also loved how the magic system was woven into our modern-day world. And Vlad? Definitely one of my favorite characters. I laughed so hard every time he showed up. And putting my Romanian bias aside, I genuinely loved seeing our heritage celebrated in the story.
So yeah, beware of the deochi… that’s one powerful curse.
Thank you, Elizabeth and James, for this amazing book! ❤️ I’m already looking forward to the next one, and I can’t wait to see you both again at the official launch!
I also loved how the magic system was woven into our modern-day world. And Vlad? Definitely one of my favorite characters. I laughed so hard every time he showed up. And putting my Romanian bias aside, I genuinely loved seeing our heritage celebrated in the story.
So yeah, beware of the deochi… that’s one powerful curse.
Thank you, Elizabeth and James, for this amazing book! ❤️ I’m already looking forward to the next one, and I can’t wait to see you both again at the official launch!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Very fun premise and did keep me entertained, but the friendships & romance felt very fickle and kept switching back and forth very easily. One second a character is accusing another of murder and the next page they’re like I’ve never loved you more!! I think if this book had focused more on the found family elements & magic system over romantic plotlines it would’ve been stronger.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 19, 2025
OMG I’LL BE UNBEARABLE WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON THIS
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars
I have a lot to say about this book, and I apologize in advance because that usually means a messy review. I’ll do my best.
Some context first. I’ve been following James and Elizabeth on Instagram for years. They are both insanely talented and creative bookstagrammers, and when Elizabeth reached out to ask if I’d be interested in reading their debut, a YA dark academia, I took the time to read the blurb first and then very enthusiastically said yes. The copy was beautiful, but I was also nervous. What if I didn’t like it? How do you tell people you’ve followed and admired for years that their book didn’t work for you?
Luckily, that was never a problem. I loved it, and I want a sequel.
But what’s the book about?
This is marketed as a cross between One of Us is Lying and Wednesday Adams.
The daughter of the American President of Magic has been murdered at school, four students are the prime suspects, and if the case goes unsolved it could trigger worldwide disaster.
We follow Alice, she is the main character and is marketed as Wednesday Adams alike but I wouldn’t go that far. Alice has her very own personality and vibe and I didn’t imagine Wednesday when I read Alice’s chapters.
Yes, she is unconventional, preferring handmade wands over the flashy neowands preloaded with spells, and she has never tried to fit in at the academy. But that makes her all the more interesting to follow. Give me a girl who knows her own mind over a meek follower or a Queen B any day. Her confidence is something to admire. Her best friend Vlad, who hails from Romania, is equally much of an outcast, and comes with a very intriguing familiar.
The other suspects are Christopher, Xena’s ex-boyfriend and heir to the powerful MageTech empire, who is insufferably full of himself at the start; Ben, a Void, meaning magicless, and Xena’s boyfriend; and Delvy, Xena’s best friend, who initially grated on my nerves so thoroughly that I almost gave up on her. Almost.
Now for the impressions, and yes, this is where it gets a little messy.
First I want to say that I am indeed impressed!
This is James and Elizabeth first published book and you can see that they worked hard to create a unique universe!
The world-building is extraordinary, and easily one of the things I loved most.
Deepgrove, the school, is built below ground because the veil between worlds has been tearing for years and it’s safer to stay out of human sight. The magic world has its own modern conveniences: broomicles, spellophones, The Deep York Times, Career Day at a mage school. A statue of Harry Houdini that mysteriously changes location. MagLev travel. A headmaster who ages and rejuvenates perpetually. And a thousand tiny details, like thanking your plate after a meal or risk your next one tasting of ash, that show just how much thought went into every corner of this universe.
I also loved the pumpkin patch. You’ll understand when you get there.
Running underneath all of it is a parallel to our modern world that I found genuinely striking. Watching what the magic world has done to its resources, I kept thinking of our own. It’s the kind of reflection that would open a reader’s eyes at any age.
The mystery is also a big asset to that book!
I interviewed James and Elizabeth, and they told me they always knew the ending and the twists, but that leading the story there without anything feeling contrived had been the real challenge. They pulled it off. Looking back, the clues were there all along, hiding in plain sight. Every character is introduced with a plausible motive, even Professor Talcott with his contempt for Voids and his possible appetite for war. The twists land, and not a single one feels gratuitous.
The character growth.
Forced to collaborate, these very different people begin to see the world through each other’s eyes, which proves a rude awakening for more than one of them. Delvy’s arc in particular was a genuine surprise: she went from a character I couldn’t stand to one I genuinely respect. That’s no small feat.
Last but not least, the side characters are interesting, especially Vlad, Alice’s best friend and I hope he will have an important role in the sequel.
Read this if you love YA stories with magic school, amazing world building, found family, mystery to solve and characters to root for. I know that I will read the sequel!
I have a lot to say about this book, and I apologize in advance because that usually means a messy review. I’ll do my best.
Some context first. I’ve been following James and Elizabeth on Instagram for years. They are both insanely talented and creative bookstagrammers, and when Elizabeth reached out to ask if I’d be interested in reading their debut, a YA dark academia, I took the time to read the blurb first and then very enthusiastically said yes. The copy was beautiful, but I was also nervous. What if I didn’t like it? How do you tell people you’ve followed and admired for years that their book didn’t work for you?
Luckily, that was never a problem. I loved it, and I want a sequel.
But what’s the book about?
This is marketed as a cross between One of Us is Lying and Wednesday Adams.
The daughter of the American President of Magic has been murdered at school, four students are the prime suspects, and if the case goes unsolved it could trigger worldwide disaster.
We follow Alice, she is the main character and is marketed as Wednesday Adams alike but I wouldn’t go that far. Alice has her very own personality and vibe and I didn’t imagine Wednesday when I read Alice’s chapters.
Yes, she is unconventional, preferring handmade wands over the flashy neowands preloaded with spells, and she has never tried to fit in at the academy. But that makes her all the more interesting to follow. Give me a girl who knows her own mind over a meek follower or a Queen B any day. Her confidence is something to admire. Her best friend Vlad, who hails from Romania, is equally much of an outcast, and comes with a very intriguing familiar.
The other suspects are Christopher, Xena’s ex-boyfriend and heir to the powerful MageTech empire, who is insufferably full of himself at the start; Ben, a Void, meaning magicless, and Xena’s boyfriend; and Delvy, Xena’s best friend, who initially grated on my nerves so thoroughly that I almost gave up on her. Almost.
Now for the impressions, and yes, this is where it gets a little messy.
First I want to say that I am indeed impressed!
This is James and Elizabeth first published book and you can see that they worked hard to create a unique universe!
The world-building is extraordinary, and easily one of the things I loved most.
Deepgrove, the school, is built below ground because the veil between worlds has been tearing for years and it’s safer to stay out of human sight. The magic world has its own modern conveniences: broomicles, spellophones, The Deep York Times, Career Day at a mage school. A statue of Harry Houdini that mysteriously changes location. MagLev travel. A headmaster who ages and rejuvenates perpetually. And a thousand tiny details, like thanking your plate after a meal or risk your next one tasting of ash, that show just how much thought went into every corner of this universe.
I also loved the pumpkin patch. You’ll understand when you get there.
Running underneath all of it is a parallel to our modern world that I found genuinely striking. Watching what the magic world has done to its resources, I kept thinking of our own. It’s the kind of reflection that would open a reader’s eyes at any age.
The mystery is also a big asset to that book!
I interviewed James and Elizabeth, and they told me they always knew the ending and the twists, but that leading the story there without anything feeling contrived had been the real challenge. They pulled it off. Looking back, the clues were there all along, hiding in plain sight. Every character is introduced with a plausible motive, even Professor Talcott with his contempt for Voids and his possible appetite for war. The twists land, and not a single one feels gratuitous.
The character growth.
Forced to collaborate, these very different people begin to see the world through each other’s eyes, which proves a rude awakening for more than one of them. Delvy’s arc in particular was a genuine surprise: she went from a character I couldn’t stand to one I genuinely respect. That’s no small feat.
Last but not least, the side characters are interesting, especially Vlad, Alice’s best friend and I hope he will have an important role in the sequel.
Read this if you love YA stories with magic school, amazing world building, found family, mystery to solve and characters to root for. I know that I will read the sequel!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rate: 4.75⭐
* Thank you to James Trevino & Elizabeth Sagan, NetGalley & Sourcebooks Fire, for providing me with an eARC copy of Gravespell to read, All opinions are my own and honest *
It's a YA Dark Academia Fantasy and Murder Mystery /thriller with enimes-to-lovers romance plot and first book in the Mages & Murder trilogy
It's a Mix of Harry Potter and Wednesday. The story is set in an underground Wizard Academy named deepgrove. It follows Alice howe, who is a foreteller wizard sees murder of Xena (one of the biggest famous student in her school) dead and where Alice get involved in the murder mystery as a one of the suspects with Christopher crane, Ben meadow and Delvy wilkins and they together solve mystery. The World-Building is like Hogwarts in underground world.
First of all, I love the Main characters friendship, found family and the romance between Alice and Christopher even though it's not much written.
Alice, a weirdo bit like Wednesday Addams and Christopher is bit like a Draco Malfoy vibes where he chooses good instead of evil because he get the love which draco didn't get!
I love the way the authors written each character POVs and their family background it gives perfect balance to understand the characters.
I love the world building, politics and magic System. It's a bit complex and confusing.
Of course! It's a mystery thriller fantasy it's confusing!
I love murder mysteries always like it was fun to find the suspect, we get more and more secrets revealed and more clues and more get mysteries and we suspect everyone. It was so fun to guess and find the suspect with everyone!
I hate Parents of christ and Xena they're so terrible. Idk, why rich parents care more Abt their buisness then their children?! But, Alice and Delvy's family are so sweet, caring, supportive and lovely!
And, the Plot!? Holy shit! I didn't expect the plot twist! It was Incredible! I was dumbfounded! We have to give a big round of applause to Alice for Finding out the whole mystery and for —Xena!
The only thing is whenever I want the POV of a specific character more, I get the POV of another character then next like, I felt like the POV of characters incompleted at some points. When I want more of them I didn't get that I got disappointed...
But, other than that it was great for a Debut novel!
It's a Perfect dark, enchantic, academia book for fall!
If you're a fan of Harry potter and Wednesday, Dark Academia and Murder Mystery, I would definitely Recommend you to read it!
(It contains betrayals, lies, death, grief and so on! So, Read the trigger warnings before reading it!)
We still have some mysteries unanswered, I think we get answers for that in the book 2!
* Thank you to James Trevino & Elizabeth Sagan, NetGalley & Sourcebooks Fire, for providing me with an eARC copy of Gravespell to read, All opinions are my own and honest *
It's a YA Dark Academia Fantasy and Murder Mystery /thriller with enimes-to-lovers romance plot and first book in the Mages & Murder trilogy
It's a Mix of Harry Potter and Wednesday. The story is set in an underground Wizard Academy named deepgrove. It follows Alice howe, who is a foreteller wizard sees murder of Xena (one of the biggest famous student in her school) dead and where Alice get involved in the murder mystery as a one of the suspects with Christopher crane, Ben meadow and Delvy wilkins and they together solve mystery. The World-Building is like Hogwarts in underground world.
First of all, I love the Main characters friendship, found family and the romance between Alice and Christopher even though it's not much written.
Alice, a weirdo bit like Wednesday Addams and Christopher is bit like a Draco Malfoy vibes where he chooses good instead of evil because he get the love which draco didn't get!
I love the way the authors written each character POVs and their family background it gives perfect balance to understand the characters.
I love the world building, politics and magic System. It's a bit complex and confusing.
Of course! It's a mystery thriller fantasy it's confusing!
I love murder mysteries always like it was fun to find the suspect, we get more and more secrets revealed and more clues and more get mysteries and we suspect everyone. It was so fun to guess and find the suspect with everyone!
I hate Parents of christ and Xena they're so terrible. Idk, why rich parents care more Abt their buisness then their children?! But, Alice and Delvy's family are so sweet, caring, supportive and lovely!
And, the Plot!? Holy shit! I didn't expect the plot twist! It was Incredible! I was dumbfounded! We have to give a big round of applause to Alice for Finding out the whole mystery and for —Xena!
The only thing is whenever I want the POV of a specific character more, I get the POV of another character then next like, I felt like the POV of characters incompleted at some points. When I want more of them I didn't get that I got disappointed...
But, other than that it was great for a Debut novel!
It's a Perfect dark, enchantic, academia book for fall!
If you're a fan of Harry potter and Wednesday, Dark Academia and Murder Mystery, I would definitely Recommend you to read it!
(It contains betrayals, lies, death, grief and so on! So, Read the trigger warnings before reading it!)
We still have some mysteries unanswered, I think we get answers for that in the book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I started reading Gravespell with an enthusiasm that is hard to match for our fellow Romanian authors who have managed to get published in the US. We are proud of them for persevering and succeeding in making a name for themselves across so many countries with this YA fantasy-meets-murder-mystery!
Since the first page, I was most excited to meet Vlad Cantemir, the Romanian character, and with good reason. Although I liked Alice and Ben as protagonists (and Christopher’s character arc made me, over time, to no longer feel the urge to strangle him), Vlad was, for me, the best character. The others kinda faded along the story, while Vlad, appearing less often than the protagonists ofc, felt fresh.
The Romanian cultural contributions have been appreciated (from dishes to mythology) especially since the authors chose to focus on strigoi rather than vampires (Romania x vampires trope has already become an unbearable cliché for me).
I enjoyed the writing pace, the diversity Vlad brought among the main characters and some of the little jokes.
The atmosphere from "Wednesday" was totally there, but also some rather weak influences from Harry Potter that did not add much originality to Gravespell (I believe this comparison is inevitable, HP being such a classic in wizarding-worlds fantasy. Since Gravespell is a YA, not a high fantasy novel, I can somehow ignore this feeling).
Some original worldbuilding elements were there, of course - I liked the principal's curse, but the whole mage-tech corporation thingie was not for me.
Now... I might not be the exact target audience for YA novels. The plot felt quite predictable to me. I started piecing things together as I read, and the plot twist at the end was a pleasant surprise – though it didn’t exactly blow my mind. Why? Reflecting on the impressions the story left me with, I realized that, as the characters evolved into a "found family," they began to lose some of the credibility required for a murder-mystery plot.
The "enemies-to-lovers" dynamic between Alice and Christopher didn't seem sufficiently developed. They acted more like mere teasing acquaintances before suddenly falling head over heels for each other.
Another aspect that gave me some trouble while reading was the narrative voice – had it not been for the contextual clues (like Christopher referring to his father as the ultimate corporate guy), I wouldn't have really known who was speaking, unless I paid close attention to the "POV" headings. The shifts in perspective didn't always happen at particularly... relevant moments. It felt a bit like scrolling through TikTok, where the scene jumps from one character to another just to keep me from getting bored.
Also, it felt to me as though the characters sometimes spoke with some maturity, and at other times acted childishly, like 12-year-olds rather than 16-year-olds. Still, I’m glad the book didn’t have an overly dramatic or clichéd happy ending. It wrapped up in a nice way, managed to pull me out of a reading slump, and was a quick read that helped me pass the time pleasantly while on buses and the metro. For a light half-modern half-magical fantasy YA, I do recommend it dearly!
Vlad and Alice's familiar, Darling, are my most precious!
This early review is possible thanks to an ARC from NetGalley.
Since the first page, I was most excited to meet Vlad Cantemir, the Romanian character, and with good reason. Although I liked Alice and Ben as protagonists (and Christopher’s character arc made me, over time, to no longer feel the urge to strangle him), Vlad was, for me, the best character. The others kinda faded along the story, while Vlad, appearing less often than the protagonists ofc, felt fresh.
The Romanian cultural contributions have been appreciated (from dishes to mythology) especially since the authors chose to focus on strigoi rather than vampires (Romania x vampires trope has already become an unbearable cliché for me).
I enjoyed the writing pace, the diversity Vlad brought among the main characters and some of the little jokes.
The atmosphere from "Wednesday" was totally there, but also some rather weak influences from Harry Potter that did not add much originality to Gravespell (I believe this comparison is inevitable, HP being such a classic in wizarding-worlds fantasy. Since Gravespell is a YA, not a high fantasy novel, I can somehow ignore this feeling).
Some original worldbuilding elements were there, of course - I liked the principal's curse, but the whole mage-tech corporation thingie was not for me.
Now... I might not be the exact target audience for YA novels. The plot felt quite predictable to me. I started piecing things together as I read, and the plot twist at the end was a pleasant surprise – though it didn’t exactly blow my mind. Why? Reflecting on the impressions the story left me with, I realized that, as the characters evolved into a "found family," they began to lose some of the credibility required for a murder-mystery plot.
The "enemies-to-lovers" dynamic between Alice and Christopher didn't seem sufficiently developed. They acted more like mere teasing acquaintances before suddenly falling head over heels for each other.
Another aspect that gave me some trouble while reading was the narrative voice – had it not been for the contextual clues (like Christopher referring to his father as the ultimate corporate guy), I wouldn't have really known who was speaking, unless I paid close attention to the "POV" headings. The shifts in perspective didn't always happen at particularly... relevant moments. It felt a bit like scrolling through TikTok, where the scene jumps from one character to another just to keep me from getting bored.
Also, it felt to me as though the characters sometimes spoke with some maturity, and at other times acted childishly, like 12-year-olds rather than 16-year-olds. Still, I’m glad the book didn’t have an overly dramatic or clichéd happy ending. It wrapped up in a nice way, managed to pull me out of a reading slump, and was a quick read that helped me pass the time pleasantly while on buses and the metro. For a light half-modern half-magical fantasy YA, I do recommend it dearly!
Vlad and Alice's familiar, Darling, are my most precious!
This early review is possible thanks to an ARC from NetGalley.
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