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The Secrets We Keep: Greyson Academy Year One
At Greyson Academy, shadows aren't just darkness—they're a death sentence.Twenty-year-old Ashley Dawn's living shadows mark her as the rarest creature in an Ascendant who can wield both angelic and demonic power. The punishment for her existence? Execution on sight.
She should be dead already.
Only one person knows what she is. Bael—a fallen Nephilim with vampire blood and centuries of secrets—has been waiting for her to manifest since before she was born. He claims they're fated mates, that her shadows were made to answer to his darkness. His touch doesn't just ignite her power; it consumes her.
Then her shadows recognize someone else.
Constantine is everything Bael isn' a fire-wielding instructor with Hunter ties and the authority to execute her the moment he discovers the truth. He should terrify her. Instead, her shadows reach for him like he's the missing piece of something ancient and inevitable.
Two men. Two sides of her forbidden nature. One impossible choice.
As the war between light and dark Nephilim closes in, Ash's control fractures with every heated glance, every forbidden touch. Her shadows don't just respond to desire—they feed on it. And they're starving for more than survival—they hunger for power, vengeance, and everything she's been denied.
At Greyson Academy, secrets are currency. But Ash isn't hiding anymore—she's learning to wield what makes her dangerous.
Some powers aren't meant to be controlled. Some hungers can't be satisfied. And some shadows will consume everything in their path.
A dark academia romance featuring a morally gray heroine willing to burn the world for those she loves, two dangerous men who match her darkness, and an academy where power, passion, and corruption collide.
She should be dead already.
Only one person knows what she is. Bael—a fallen Nephilim with vampire blood and centuries of secrets—has been waiting for her to manifest since before she was born. He claims they're fated mates, that her shadows were made to answer to his darkness. His touch doesn't just ignite her power; it consumes her.
Then her shadows recognize someone else.
Constantine is everything Bael isn' a fire-wielding instructor with Hunter ties and the authority to execute her the moment he discovers the truth. He should terrify her. Instead, her shadows reach for him like he's the missing piece of something ancient and inevitable.
Two men. Two sides of her forbidden nature. One impossible choice.
As the war between light and dark Nephilim closes in, Ash's control fractures with every heated glance, every forbidden touch. Her shadows don't just respond to desire—they feed on it. And they're starving for more than survival—they hunger for power, vengeance, and everything she's been denied.
At Greyson Academy, secrets are currency. But Ash isn't hiding anymore—she's learning to wield what makes her dangerous.
Some powers aren't meant to be controlled. Some hungers can't be satisfied. And some shadows will consume everything in their path.
A dark academia romance featuring a morally gray heroine willing to burn the world for those she loves, two dangerous men who match her darkness, and an academy where power, passion, and corruption collide.
- GenresParanormalFantasy
516 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 12, 2026
53 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
March 12, 2026
I’ll start with the good: The story was compelling and kept my interest throughout. The plot was the only saving grace in this book. It’s the only reason I gave this book any stars at all.
That being said, this is the most poorly written book I’ve ever read. There were so many errors in continuity that I sometimes wondered if the author did any editing at all. One character was introduced twice within a few pages. Not like we were getting more info, but like the author forgot we met that character already and reintroduced her to the FMC. There was another part where the FMC was packed and ready to run away and then on the next page without any discussion this idea vanished along with the whole reason she was planning to run. Then it came up again later and we heard the same packing list. Also nearly all the secondary professors had the same hair description.
Additionally, there were a lot of redundancies. Nearly every description was a simile that had two parts. Everything smelled like secrets. Some quotes and descriptions were used verbatim dozens of times. There were repetitive descriptors (bonded, strengthened) that were used incessantly. The author also had a habit of explaining things twice - she should give her readers more credit that they can follow along without being spoon fed. We also don’t need reminding about the prophecy’s components at the end of and throughout each chapter.
The characters words also were quite robotic. Everyone spoke the same (though internal dialogue was different) and towards the end of the book it got worse.
There was a lot more I took issue with in this book. I really hope that maybe ARC readers were sent a draft by mistake. I cannot imagine a seasoned author would put something is raw out there. I know authors pour their heart into their work and i recognize that. But this book was rough. It were not for the plot I would have DNF’d in the first 60 pages.
So if none of these flaws bother you, please check it out. The story is worth it.
That being said, this is the most poorly written book I’ve ever read. There were so many errors in continuity that I sometimes wondered if the author did any editing at all. One character was introduced twice within a few pages. Not like we were getting more info, but like the author forgot we met that character already and reintroduced her to the FMC. There was another part where the FMC was packed and ready to run away and then on the next page without any discussion this idea vanished along with the whole reason she was planning to run. Then it came up again later and we heard the same packing list. Also nearly all the secondary professors had the same hair description.
Additionally, there were a lot of redundancies. Nearly every description was a simile that had two parts. Everything smelled like secrets. Some quotes and descriptions were used verbatim dozens of times. There were repetitive descriptors (bonded, strengthened) that were used incessantly. The author also had a habit of explaining things twice - she should give her readers more credit that they can follow along without being spoon fed. We also don’t need reminding about the prophecy’s components at the end of and throughout each chapter.
The characters words also were quite robotic. Everyone spoke the same (though internal dialogue was different) and towards the end of the book it got worse.
There was a lot more I took issue with in this book. I really hope that maybe ARC readers were sent a draft by mistake. I cannot imagine a seasoned author would put something is raw out there. I know authors pour their heart into their work and i recognize that. But this book was rough. It were not for the plot I would have DNF’d in the first 60 pages.
So if none of these flaws bother you, please check it out. The story is worth it.
March 14, 2026
At Greyson Academy, shadows aren't just darkness—they're a death sentence. Twenty-year-old Ashley Dawn's living shadows mark her as the rarest creature in an Ascendant who can wield both angelic and demonic power. The punishment for her existence? Execution on sight.
Ashley should be dead already.
Only one person knows what she is. Bael—a fallen Nephilim with vampire blood and centuries of secrets—he has been waiting for her to manifest since before she was born. He claims they're fated mates, that her shadows were made to answer to his darkness. His touch doesn't just ignite her power; it consumes her.
Then Ashley’s shadows recognize someone else.
Constantine is everything Bael isn' a fire-wielding instructor with Hunter ties and the authority to execute her the moment he discovers the truth. He should terrify her. Instead, her shadows reach for him like he's the missing piece of something ancient and inevitable.
Two men. Two sides of her forbidden nature. One impossible choice.
As the war between light and dark Nephilim closes in, Ashley's control fractures with every heated glance, every forbidden touch. Her shadows don't just respond to desire—they feed on it. And they're starving for more than survival—they hunger for power, vengeance, and everything she's been denied.
At Greyson Academy, secrets are currency. But Ashley isn't hiding anymore—she's learning to wield what makes her dangerous.
Some powers aren't meant to be controlled. Some hungers can't be satisfied. And some shadows will consume everything in their path.
A dark academia romance featuring a morally gray heroine willing to burn the world for those she loves, two dangerous men who match her darkness, and an academy where power, passion, and corruption collide.
Tropes: Dark Academia (20+), Fated Mates, Why Choose, Teacher-to-Lovers, Deadly War Games, Warring Factions, Paranormal Academy, Ancient Rivalries, Deadly Trials, Not-Perfect Strong FMC, Morally Gray FMC, The Chosen One, Sentient Shadows, Rare Creature, Ascendant, Wield both Angelic/Demonic Power, Fallen Nephilim, Vampire, Secrets, Touch Ignites FMCs Power it Consumes her, Fire-Wielder, Hunter Ties, Authority to Execute, Forbidden Nature, Impossible Choice, War Between Light and Dark, Control Fractures, Forbidden Touches, FMC Hungers for Power/Vengeance/everything she’s been denied, Secrets are Currency, Burn the World for the Ones she Loves, Two Dangerous Men, Match her Darkness, Academy where Power/Passion/Corruption Collide, Forbidden Love, Teachers-to-Lovers, Ancient Rivals, Not Perfect But Strong FMC, Warring Factions, Prophecy.
The Secrets we Keep is Year One of Greyson Academy by Serenity Rayne.
I really don’t know how Serenity does it. Every book she writes is an out of the park home run and The Secrets we Keep was a quadruple home run. I can’t tell you just how enjoyable this book truly was – the overall storyline, next to the plot and sub-plot just pulled me in and completely enthralled me.
The Secrets we Keep is this dark academic fantasy that delivers a really unique magical system, it comes with these forbidden bonds, morally gray characters who you can’t help but love, the forces of light and dark fighting against each other, and you are immersed in this atmosphere that’s dripping with tension, anxiety, fear, and corruption.
And our villains? I can promise you that these villains aren’t the kind of villains that you love-to-hate…you just out-and-out hate them.
Technically this book is a slow-burn, but I do have to warn you that at the same time – the spice in this book in really very minimal. So, if you are picking this book up expecting there to be a lot of spice, I promise you that The Secrets we Keep isn’t going to deliver the spice you’re looking for. You are going to get all the tension, quiet simmering though and I truly believe that Serenity is making us wait for it and it’s going to be worth it.
Ashley is such a strong FMC and I am a sucker for that. Ashley grows into her power through this book and I love the way she portrays both the light and dark Nephilim – in ancient times she would be known as an Ascendant. Through this book we’re mostly seeing the darker shadows of what Ashley is capable of, now I am really curious as to what Ashley’s light side is capable of – right now what we do know is it is the side that literally blinds her when she looks at it – and I am sure it is going to come into play as the series continues to unfold.
And this series is right up my ally as I am a huge fan of the Why Choose genre and this book doesn’t give us just one MMC Serenity gives us two MMCs.
Ashley: while celebrating her 20th birthday she starts to feel a bit off center when she suddenly under goes this painful transformation in the middle of the public park she’s in with her friends. She meets Bael who tells her that he’s her guardian, he also informs her that she’s an Ascendant, which is this rare form of Nephilim.
She also learns that she has to attend this private academy for the Nephilim and those gifted humans, but he warns her that she can’t reveal her true nature. Bael explains that there’s a war brewing among the light and the dark Nephilim, and what’s worse both these sides are petrified of Ascendants.
Ashley constantly battles with herself to keep her Ascendant abilities hidden, something she never imagined would be so hard due to the shadows in her mind having a mind of their own and she quickly learns that they are tied to her own emotions.
Bael: he is Ashley’s guardian – he is part ancient vampire and part Dark Nephilim; he can wield shadows and his wings. And oh, how I love his wings. They are these stunning black wings with a massive wingspan.
He has been protecting Ashley’s bloodline for centuries waiting for her to finally be born…just to find out she’s his fated mate.
Constantine: Oh, my Constantine, now I am a real sucker for a red-head (I married one and he’s the love of my life.) He is this fire-wielding Hunter instructor who for Ashley (and me) is equal parts terrifying and irresistible.
Constantine has also been continuing his mother’s research.
Serenity honestly handed me two dream men, one a winged shadow man and the other a dangerous fire-wielding redhead and I swear I just can be expected to behave normally when I think about them.
Both Constantine and Bael take training Ashley very seriously and while they train her, they protect her from the Hunters that come after her as they have been extinguishing Ashley’s kind from the moment they are first discovered.
It’s not only the Hunter’s though who have it out for Ashley. Throw in other students who have it in for her. And then there’s the High Examiner who will search high and low and is bound & determined to hunt Ashley down.
Ashley realizes quickly that trust & secrecy is paramount to her survival and she has to be selective about who she chooses to trust and who she lets into her circle.
Constantine and Bael also know about a prophecy about Ashley that says Ashley’s the one who will bring back the balance….
I am not waiting, walking, sprinting to book 2 I’m flying for it. Serenity gave us a powerful Ascendant in Ashley, a winged shadow guardian in Bael and the most terrifying red-headed fire wielder in Constantine and I need book 2 yesterday, no I needed book 2 last week.
If you can’t tell I highly recommend this book, you need to get this book on your TBR ASAP!
Ashley should be dead already.
Only one person knows what she is. Bael—a fallen Nephilim with vampire blood and centuries of secrets—he has been waiting for her to manifest since before she was born. He claims they're fated mates, that her shadows were made to answer to his darkness. His touch doesn't just ignite her power; it consumes her.
Then Ashley’s shadows recognize someone else.
Constantine is everything Bael isn' a fire-wielding instructor with Hunter ties and the authority to execute her the moment he discovers the truth. He should terrify her. Instead, her shadows reach for him like he's the missing piece of something ancient and inevitable.
Two men. Two sides of her forbidden nature. One impossible choice.
As the war between light and dark Nephilim closes in, Ashley's control fractures with every heated glance, every forbidden touch. Her shadows don't just respond to desire—they feed on it. And they're starving for more than survival—they hunger for power, vengeance, and everything she's been denied.
At Greyson Academy, secrets are currency. But Ashley isn't hiding anymore—she's learning to wield what makes her dangerous.
Some powers aren't meant to be controlled. Some hungers can't be satisfied. And some shadows will consume everything in their path.
A dark academia romance featuring a morally gray heroine willing to burn the world for those she loves, two dangerous men who match her darkness, and an academy where power, passion, and corruption collide.
Tropes: Dark Academia (20+), Fated Mates, Why Choose, Teacher-to-Lovers, Deadly War Games, Warring Factions, Paranormal Academy, Ancient Rivalries, Deadly Trials, Not-Perfect Strong FMC, Morally Gray FMC, The Chosen One, Sentient Shadows, Rare Creature, Ascendant, Wield both Angelic/Demonic Power, Fallen Nephilim, Vampire, Secrets, Touch Ignites FMCs Power it Consumes her, Fire-Wielder, Hunter Ties, Authority to Execute, Forbidden Nature, Impossible Choice, War Between Light and Dark, Control Fractures, Forbidden Touches, FMC Hungers for Power/Vengeance/everything she’s been denied, Secrets are Currency, Burn the World for the Ones she Loves, Two Dangerous Men, Match her Darkness, Academy where Power/Passion/Corruption Collide, Forbidden Love, Teachers-to-Lovers, Ancient Rivals, Not Perfect But Strong FMC, Warring Factions, Prophecy.
The Secrets we Keep is Year One of Greyson Academy by Serenity Rayne.
I really don’t know how Serenity does it. Every book she writes is an out of the park home run and The Secrets we Keep was a quadruple home run. I can’t tell you just how enjoyable this book truly was – the overall storyline, next to the plot and sub-plot just pulled me in and completely enthralled me.
The Secrets we Keep is this dark academic fantasy that delivers a really unique magical system, it comes with these forbidden bonds, morally gray characters who you can’t help but love, the forces of light and dark fighting against each other, and you are immersed in this atmosphere that’s dripping with tension, anxiety, fear, and corruption.
And our villains? I can promise you that these villains aren’t the kind of villains that you love-to-hate…you just out-and-out hate them.
Technically this book is a slow-burn, but I do have to warn you that at the same time – the spice in this book in really very minimal. So, if you are picking this book up expecting there to be a lot of spice, I promise you that The Secrets we Keep isn’t going to deliver the spice you’re looking for. You are going to get all the tension, quiet simmering though and I truly believe that Serenity is making us wait for it and it’s going to be worth it.
Ashley is such a strong FMC and I am a sucker for that. Ashley grows into her power through this book and I love the way she portrays both the light and dark Nephilim – in ancient times she would be known as an Ascendant. Through this book we’re mostly seeing the darker shadows of what Ashley is capable of, now I am really curious as to what Ashley’s light side is capable of – right now what we do know is it is the side that literally blinds her when she looks at it – and I am sure it is going to come into play as the series continues to unfold.
And this series is right up my ally as I am a huge fan of the Why Choose genre and this book doesn’t give us just one MMC Serenity gives us two MMCs.
Ashley: while celebrating her 20th birthday she starts to feel a bit off center when she suddenly under goes this painful transformation in the middle of the public park she’s in with her friends. She meets Bael who tells her that he’s her guardian, he also informs her that she’s an Ascendant, which is this rare form of Nephilim.
She also learns that she has to attend this private academy for the Nephilim and those gifted humans, but he warns her that she can’t reveal her true nature. Bael explains that there’s a war brewing among the light and the dark Nephilim, and what’s worse both these sides are petrified of Ascendants.
Ashley constantly battles with herself to keep her Ascendant abilities hidden, something she never imagined would be so hard due to the shadows in her mind having a mind of their own and she quickly learns that they are tied to her own emotions.
Bael: he is Ashley’s guardian – he is part ancient vampire and part Dark Nephilim; he can wield shadows and his wings. And oh, how I love his wings. They are these stunning black wings with a massive wingspan.
He has been protecting Ashley’s bloodline for centuries waiting for her to finally be born…just to find out she’s his fated mate.
Constantine: Oh, my Constantine, now I am a real sucker for a red-head (I married one and he’s the love of my life.) He is this fire-wielding Hunter instructor who for Ashley (and me) is equal parts terrifying and irresistible.
Constantine has also been continuing his mother’s research.
Serenity honestly handed me two dream men, one a winged shadow man and the other a dangerous fire-wielding redhead and I swear I just can be expected to behave normally when I think about them.
Both Constantine and Bael take training Ashley very seriously and while they train her, they protect her from the Hunters that come after her as they have been extinguishing Ashley’s kind from the moment they are first discovered.
It’s not only the Hunter’s though who have it out for Ashley. Throw in other students who have it in for her. And then there’s the High Examiner who will search high and low and is bound & determined to hunt Ashley down.
Ashley realizes quickly that trust & secrecy is paramount to her survival and she has to be selective about who she chooses to trust and who she lets into her circle.
Constantine and Bael also know about a prophecy about Ashley that says Ashley’s the one who will bring back the balance….
I am not waiting, walking, sprinting to book 2 I’m flying for it. Serenity gave us a powerful Ascendant in Ashley, a winged shadow guardian in Bael and the most terrifying red-headed fire wielder in Constantine and I need book 2 yesterday, no I needed book 2 last week.
If you can’t tell I highly recommend this book, you need to get this book on your TBR ASAP!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ 4/5 Stars
I cannot express how much I enjoyed this book — the concept and the plot completely pulled me in. This Dark Academia fantasy delivers a unique magical system, forbidden bonds, morally gray characters, light and dark forces, and an atmosphere dripping with tension, anxiety, fear, and corruption at its finest. And the villains? They aren’t the kind you’ll love to hate… you’ll just hate them.
The book does advertise itself as a slow burn, which is technically true in book one. However, fair warning — the spice level is very low. So if you’re picking this up expecting immediate heat, book one probably isn’t going to deliver that just yet. The tension is definitely there though, quietly simmering and making you wait for it.
I am an absolute sucker for a strong FMC who grows into her power, and Ashley Dawn absolutely fits that bill. She is both a Dark and Light Nephilim — anciently known as an Ascendant. At the moment we’re mostly seeing the darker shadows of what she’s capable of, and I’m very curious to see how the “light” side — the one that literally blinds her every time she looks at it — will come into play as the story unfolds.
And honestly… who doesn’t love not just one, but two MMCs?
Bael — her guardian — is part vampire and part Dark Nephilim, wielding shadows and wings. Yes, WINGS. Beautifully black with a massive wingspan. I mean… I feel like this character was specifically designed for me.
And then there’s Constantine, Oh Constantine — a red-haired, fire-wielding Hunter instructor who is equal parts terrifying and irresistible.
It’s like this author casually handed me a winged shadow man and a dangerous fire-wielding redhead and just expected me to behave normally about it.
I cannot. Burn me at the stake. I’m done.
Side Note:
The main reason this didn’t quite reach five stars for me was the repetition throughout the book. It wasn’t the explanations of the world or magic system, but certain words and descriptions that were repeated in nearly identical ways multiple times.
For me, this occasionally pulled me out of the story, as it felt like the same phrasing was reused instead of expanding the scene or adding new details. There was also a moment where an event seemed to be revisited later with almost the exact same wording, which made it feel a bit like the story circled back to something that had already been covered or forgotten.
It didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment of the book, but it was noticeable enough that it kept this from being a full five-star read for me.
Because when a story gives me a powerful Ascendant, a winged shadow guardian, and a terrifying red-haired fire wielder…
I’m not walking to book two.
I’m sprinting and then diving right into it.
Serenity Rayne
I cannot express how much I enjoyed this book — the concept and the plot completely pulled me in. This Dark Academia fantasy delivers a unique magical system, forbidden bonds, morally gray characters, light and dark forces, and an atmosphere dripping with tension, anxiety, fear, and corruption at its finest. And the villains? They aren’t the kind you’ll love to hate… you’ll just hate them.
The book does advertise itself as a slow burn, which is technically true in book one. However, fair warning — the spice level is very low. So if you’re picking this up expecting immediate heat, book one probably isn’t going to deliver that just yet. The tension is definitely there though, quietly simmering and making you wait for it.
I am an absolute sucker for a strong FMC who grows into her power, and Ashley Dawn absolutely fits that bill. She is both a Dark and Light Nephilim — anciently known as an Ascendant. At the moment we’re mostly seeing the darker shadows of what she’s capable of, and I’m very curious to see how the “light” side — the one that literally blinds her every time she looks at it — will come into play as the story unfolds.
And honestly… who doesn’t love not just one, but two MMCs?
Bael — her guardian — is part vampire and part Dark Nephilim, wielding shadows and wings. Yes, WINGS. Beautifully black with a massive wingspan. I mean… I feel like this character was specifically designed for me.
And then there’s Constantine, Oh Constantine — a red-haired, fire-wielding Hunter instructor who is equal parts terrifying and irresistible.
It’s like this author casually handed me a winged shadow man and a dangerous fire-wielding redhead and just expected me to behave normally about it.
I cannot. Burn me at the stake. I’m done.
Side Note:
The main reason this didn’t quite reach five stars for me was the repetition throughout the book. It wasn’t the explanations of the world or magic system, but certain words and descriptions that were repeated in nearly identical ways multiple times.
For me, this occasionally pulled me out of the story, as it felt like the same phrasing was reused instead of expanding the scene or adding new details. There was also a moment where an event seemed to be revisited later with almost the exact same wording, which made it feel a bit like the story circled back to something that had already been covered or forgotten.
It didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment of the book, but it was noticeable enough that it kept this from being a full five-star read for me.
Because when a story gives me a powerful Ascendant, a winged shadow guardian, and a terrifying red-haired fire wielder…
I’m not walking to book two.
I’m sprinting and then diving right into it.
Serenity Rayne
March 13, 2026
From birthday shenanigans to a prophecy that might kill you
All right so imagine you're partying with your friends having the time of your life for your birthday and then something starts to feel off. OK maybe you're drunk so you decide to get some air only it doesn't help so you figure you'll go home. Unfortunately You only make it to the park where suddenly you're hit with excruciating pain that brings with it giant black wings.
This book has a great story line though I definitely agree it had some inconsistencies with repeated information. Now this may be fixed in the final version. I'm reviewing based on the storyline.
This story brings you an academy filled with Light and Light and dark Nephilim, gifted humans and hunters. The story brings us a prophecy the hunters are determined is never to be fulfilled.
We have Bael who is an ancient guardian to our FMCs family. He is park dark Nephilim and part vampire. He can control shadows and has been waiting for the day Ashley ascended. Upon first meeting it is discovered they are also mates should they accept the bond.
We also have Constantine a fire wielding red headed hunter. He doesn't buy into everything and is continuing his mother's research. Will he let his draw to Ashley change his future or hold onto the way of the Hunters?
This book does not have spice in it. It is slow burn so don't expect them to jump into anything. Ashley went from human to someone people will be hunting overnight. Now she is trying to hid what she really is while learning everything she can.
However, when people start to notice she is different the hunters are quick to try and determine if she is just weird or something they need to eliminate.
This was fun and fast paced when it wasn't repeating things that took you out of the moment. I'm definitely super excited about what will happen next. Ashley is super strong to be thrown into all of this and come out fighting.
All right so imagine you're partying with your friends having the time of your life for your birthday and then something starts to feel off. OK maybe you're drunk so you decide to get some air only it doesn't help so you figure you'll go home. Unfortunately You only make it to the park where suddenly you're hit with excruciating pain that brings with it giant black wings.
This book has a great story line though I definitely agree it had some inconsistencies with repeated information. Now this may be fixed in the final version. I'm reviewing based on the storyline.
This story brings you an academy filled with Light and Light and dark Nephilim, gifted humans and hunters. The story brings us a prophecy the hunters are determined is never to be fulfilled.
We have Bael who is an ancient guardian to our FMCs family. He is park dark Nephilim and part vampire. He can control shadows and has been waiting for the day Ashley ascended. Upon first meeting it is discovered they are also mates should they accept the bond.
We also have Constantine a fire wielding red headed hunter. He doesn't buy into everything and is continuing his mother's research. Will he let his draw to Ashley change his future or hold onto the way of the Hunters?
This book does not have spice in it. It is slow burn so don't expect them to jump into anything. Ashley went from human to someone people will be hunting overnight. Now she is trying to hid what she really is while learning everything she can.
However, when people start to notice she is different the hunters are quick to try and determine if she is just weird or something they need to eliminate.
This was fun and fast paced when it wasn't repeating things that took you out of the moment. I'm definitely super excited about what will happen next. Ashley is super strong to be thrown into all of this and come out fighting.
April 2, 2026
ARC REVIEW : 3.5
I really enjoyed the premise and plot of this story. A 20 year old girl suddenly grows wings on her birthday and is told she’s destined to fulfill an ancient prophecy centuries in the making? Say less. The magic and skills she’s learning with the reader also getting to see those of others was very interesting and fun to read. I also enjoyed the trials portion and suspense of the storyline!
I initially didn’t realize this book was part of what seems to be a 4 book series (finished by the end of 2026). The tropes noted for this book seem to apply more to the series as a whole versus this specific book 1, which was a little misleading.
I underestimated how long it would take me to finish the book so my review is coming late, but I did find myself wanting to learn more and see what the end result was going to be. The book ends on a cliffhanger and not much gets ‘resolved’ other than FMC coming into her own.
I feel this book could’ve been a little shorter without cutting any important points. There was a lot of repetitive descriptions or phrases used and, I truly thought the FMC had the gift of scent with how often the scents are noted. Many side characters also have the same/similar descriptions. I also thought it was odd that the burden of her wings was a heavy point in the first quarter of the book and then not mentioned again at all until the last third/quarter.
I’m intrigued enough to want to read the next book, but I hope it doesn’t take 4 books to see the prophecy fulfilled… if the 2nd book doesn’t provide enough, I likely will not finish the series.
I really enjoyed the premise and plot of this story. A 20 year old girl suddenly grows wings on her birthday and is told she’s destined to fulfill an ancient prophecy centuries in the making? Say less. The magic and skills she’s learning with the reader also getting to see those of others was very interesting and fun to read. I also enjoyed the trials portion and suspense of the storyline!
I initially didn’t realize this book was part of what seems to be a 4 book series (finished by the end of 2026). The tropes noted for this book seem to apply more to the series as a whole versus this specific book 1, which was a little misleading.
I underestimated how long it would take me to finish the book so my review is coming late, but I did find myself wanting to learn more and see what the end result was going to be. The book ends on a cliffhanger and not much gets ‘resolved’ other than FMC coming into her own.
I feel this book could’ve been a little shorter without cutting any important points. There was a lot of repetitive descriptions or phrases used and, I truly thought the FMC had the gift of scent with how often the scents are noted. Many side characters also have the same/similar descriptions. I also thought it was odd that the burden of her wings was a heavy point in the first quarter of the book and then not mentioned again at all until the last third/quarter.
I’m intrigued enough to want to read the next book, but I hope it doesn’t take 4 books to see the prophecy fulfilled… if the 2nd book doesn’t provide enough, I likely will not finish the series.
Review of advance copy
Ashley was having the time of her life celebrating her 20th birthday when she begins to feel a little off kilter only to undergo a painful transformation in the middle of a public park. Ashley learns from her newfound guardian that she is an Ascendant, a rare form of Nephilim.
As if that isn’t bad enough Ashley learns that she is to attend a private academy for Nephilim and gifted humans, but she cannot reveal her true nature. Unfortunately, there is a war brewing amongst the light and dark Nephilim, and both sides are terrified of Ascendants and Ashley was in a constant battle in trying to keep her Ascendant abilities hidden which was harder that she imagined because her shadows had a mind of their own and were intricately tied to her emotions. Poor Ashley didn't stand a chance. LOL
Ashley story was intense. Not only was she a new place. New ascension, sentient shadows with a mind of their own, a super-hot vampire dark Nephilim guardian, a professor and hunter who is drawn to her every movement and Ashley has no idea what to do. When I say my girl was stressed; she was stressed out throughout this entire book because everyone had their suspicions about her and for that reason alone, she was a target.
This is a slow burn romance. With complex world building and unique magic there was a lot to digest in this book. Factor in Ashley’s growing abilities, her attraction to both her guardian and professor; there were so many levels of this story to unpack.
I was not expecting this thrill ride. It was like the FMC had a bad day EVERYDAY!!!
As if that isn’t bad enough Ashley learns that she is to attend a private academy for Nephilim and gifted humans, but she cannot reveal her true nature. Unfortunately, there is a war brewing amongst the light and dark Nephilim, and both sides are terrified of Ascendants and Ashley was in a constant battle in trying to keep her Ascendant abilities hidden which was harder that she imagined because her shadows had a mind of their own and were intricately tied to her emotions. Poor Ashley didn't stand a chance. LOL
Ashley story was intense. Not only was she a new place. New ascension, sentient shadows with a mind of their own, a super-hot vampire dark Nephilim guardian, a professor and hunter who is drawn to her every movement and Ashley has no idea what to do. When I say my girl was stressed; she was stressed out throughout this entire book because everyone had their suspicions about her and for that reason alone, she was a target.
This is a slow burn romance. With complex world building and unique magic there was a lot to digest in this book. Factor in Ashley’s growing abilities, her attraction to both her guardian and professor; there were so many levels of this story to unpack.
I was not expecting this thrill ride. It was like the FMC had a bad day EVERYDAY!!!
March 12, 2026
It's been a hot minute since I read a book where nephilim were the focus. Now here comes Serenity Rayne with the first book in the Greyson Academy series. Not only are there light and dark nephilim, but there are hunters and gifted humans in the mix as well, with all sorts of varied and unique powers. It was a little chaotic at first, but Serenity hit the ground running. Things were moving fast, and we had to just figure it out. This was a big book. Between all the details and a few issues, I felt those pages. It was a little harder to get through. Plus, it was told from a singular first-person perspective. I would have enjoyed it more from multiple POVs to break it up a little.
However, the lore was pretty good, although I wished there was a little more backstory. I did like the spin Serenity put on the magic system. Not only did she come at it from kind of a scientific perspective, but she went into detail, and it was varied. It was a modern-day witch hunt, but the supernatural version. Hunters and light nephilim on one side, dark nephilim on the other, with everyone hating ascendants, who they thought were eradicated. MFC Ashley is constantly surrounded by danger with two allies who are questionable. This is a slow burn that focuses more on plot than romance, and I was okay with that. The magical trials were the most exciting part. I expected danger, but come on, this was a whole new level of a crapstorm. Oddly enough, I didn't feel the tension; I was more inquisitive about where the story was headed. Now, I'm even more curious after reading the epilogue.
However, the lore was pretty good, although I wished there was a little more backstory. I did like the spin Serenity put on the magic system. Not only did she come at it from kind of a scientific perspective, but she went into detail, and it was varied. It was a modern-day witch hunt, but the supernatural version. Hunters and light nephilim on one side, dark nephilim on the other, with everyone hating ascendants, who they thought were eradicated. MFC Ashley is constantly surrounded by danger with two allies who are questionable. This is a slow burn that focuses more on plot than romance, and I was okay with that. The magical trials were the most exciting part. I expected danger, but come on, this was a whole new level of a crapstorm. Oddly enough, I didn't feel the tension; I was more inquisitive about where the story was headed. Now, I'm even more curious after reading the epilogue.
Review of advance copy received from Author
MFM Romantasy
Good read. This is a angsty, slow burn with an instant connection between both MMCs… who both are very different and just happen to be ancient rivals.
Ashley not only learns there’s a supernatural world but she part of….. apparently a big part. She needs to attend an academy to learn to control her powers…..which are evolving at an accelerated pace. Powers that she’s learning to control while also trying to hide how powerful and different they are and what she truly is ….. while trying to stay undetected by all the eyes she has watching her. And those Hunters are trying to trap her into revealing her true self.
We have Constantine, a Hunter instructor , that questions what he’s been taught as a Hunter, while continuing his mother’s research. Is he ready to fight for what is right? Or what he’s oath tells him to do?
And finally we have Bael, who is an ancient vampire hybrid, who has protected her bloodline for centuries …. And finding out she’s his fated mate.
They both take on training her while protecting her from the Hunters that have been extinguishing her kind as soon as they are discovered. There is a prophecy that says she’s the one to bring back balance……
No cheating , no OWD ends on a mild cliffhanger
* Fated Mates
* Dark Academia (20+)
* Forbidden Love
* Teachers to Lovers
* Ancient Rivals
* Not Perfect but Strong FMC
* Warring Fractions
* D€adly Trials
* Prophecy / Chosen One
Good read. This is a angsty, slow burn with an instant connection between both MMCs… who both are very different and just happen to be ancient rivals.
Ashley not only learns there’s a supernatural world but she part of….. apparently a big part. She needs to attend an academy to learn to control her powers…..which are evolving at an accelerated pace. Powers that she’s learning to control while also trying to hide how powerful and different they are and what she truly is ….. while trying to stay undetected by all the eyes she has watching her. And those Hunters are trying to trap her into revealing her true self.
We have Constantine, a Hunter instructor , that questions what he’s been taught as a Hunter, while continuing his mother’s research. Is he ready to fight for what is right? Or what he’s oath tells him to do?
And finally we have Bael, who is an ancient vampire hybrid, who has protected her bloodline for centuries …. And finding out she’s his fated mate.
They both take on training her while protecting her from the Hunters that have been extinguishing her kind as soon as they are discovered. There is a prophecy that says she’s the one to bring back balance……
No cheating , no OWD ends on a mild cliffhanger
* Fated Mates
* Dark Academia (20+)
* Forbidden Love
* Teachers to Lovers
* Ancient Rivals
* Not Perfect but Strong FMC
* Warring Fractions
* D€adly Trials
* Prophecy / Chosen One
March 13, 2026
3.5/5
This book has such an interesting premise and a mix of compelling aspects that immediately caught my attention…
The story begins with Ashley celebrating her 20 birthday but suddenly she found herself with a pair of new wings and an enigmatic man who is telling her that she’s a special kind of creature who appears in an ancient prophecy and oh I mentioned that she’s his mate?… Oh Welcome to Greyson academy you all! Haha
But seriously, the combination of a ancient prophecy, an academy for paranormal people with factions and a mysterious castle full of secrets, the steaming tension with two man whose purpose is to help Ashley to stay alive… this combination makes of this an interesting, magnetic and addictive story with so much potential…
Sadly I founded so much repetitiveness in the narrative, descriptions that were used so many times that i lost count, errors in timeline, character that were introduced several times almost as if the author forgot that we already knew them and for me the most notorious and confusing plot hole were that they talked about escaping that night and then forgot they were planning to escape and continue to their lives as if nothing happened… like hello?
But being honest, if you can omit those things, the story is still enjoyable… in fact I find the story and plot very appealing and that what made me keep reading it despite the repetitiveness but it obvious that the book would benefit greatly from a little more editing.
This book has such an interesting premise and a mix of compelling aspects that immediately caught my attention…
The story begins with Ashley celebrating her 20 birthday but suddenly she found herself with a pair of new wings and an enigmatic man who is telling her that she’s a special kind of creature who appears in an ancient prophecy and oh I mentioned that she’s his mate?… Oh Welcome to Greyson academy you all! Haha
But seriously, the combination of a ancient prophecy, an academy for paranormal people with factions and a mysterious castle full of secrets, the steaming tension with two man whose purpose is to help Ashley to stay alive… this combination makes of this an interesting, magnetic and addictive story with so much potential…
Sadly I founded so much repetitiveness in the narrative, descriptions that were used so many times that i lost count, errors in timeline, character that were introduced several times almost as if the author forgot that we already knew them and for me the most notorious and confusing plot hole were that they talked about escaping that night and then forgot they were planning to escape and continue to their lives as if nothing happened… like hello?
But being honest, if you can omit those things, the story is still enjoyable… in fact I find the story and plot very appealing and that what made me keep reading it despite the repetitiveness but it obvious that the book would benefit greatly from a little more editing.
March 14, 2026
The Secrets We Keep is year one in the Greyson Academy Series. It is a dark, slow burn, fantasy, academy romance with a morally grey heroine and two dark and dangerous men. The story is told in first person singular POV for most of the book, and multiple POV towards the end of the story.
Ashley has an unexpected transformation and discovers that she is a rare creature. She learns that she could be executed for simply existing. She is then wisked away to Greyson Academy and with the help of Bael and Constantine, Ashley struggles to learn how to stay undetected and alive.
I loved Ashley. She is a strong FMC who is determined to persevere, and I absolutely loved that about her. I also really loved the chemistry and tension between the MC's. I loved Bael and Constantine as well. I loved Bael's mysteriousness and Constantine's internal struggles with hunter corruption. I loved how they both are determined to help Ashley develop and keep her safe.
I loved this book, it has a terrific story that I truly enjoyed. For that and the characters alone, I gave it five stars. The storytelling, plot, characters, character development, relationship development, and world building were all awesome.
If you are looking for an intriguing and action packed read with a powerful FMC and protective MMC's, then I'd absolutely recommend this book.
Thank you to Serenity Rayne for the ARC; all thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own
Ashley has an unexpected transformation and discovers that she is a rare creature. She learns that she could be executed for simply existing. She is then wisked away to Greyson Academy and with the help of Bael and Constantine, Ashley struggles to learn how to stay undetected and alive.
I loved Ashley. She is a strong FMC who is determined to persevere, and I absolutely loved that about her. I also really loved the chemistry and tension between the MC's. I loved Bael and Constantine as well. I loved Bael's mysteriousness and Constantine's internal struggles with hunter corruption. I loved how they both are determined to help Ashley develop and keep her safe.
I loved this book, it has a terrific story that I truly enjoyed. For that and the characters alone, I gave it five stars. The storytelling, plot, characters, character development, relationship development, and world building were all awesome.
If you are looking for an intriguing and action packed read with a powerful FMC and protective MMC's, then I'd absolutely recommend this book.
Thank you to Serenity Rayne for the ARC; all thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own
March 19, 2026
Serenity gives us the awesome beginning to a new series,Greyson Academy! Ashley wakes up one day and finds out she's not only not just a human, but she's the rarest of the rare.. an ascendant. A being able to use both angelic and demonic powers, which she learns would be a death sentence if anyone were to find out. She's found by Bael, who is an ancient vampire (dark nephilim), who informs her she is his mate and that he's been watching over her bloodline for centuries. When she gets to Greyson Academy expecting it to help her blend in, but her shadows behaviour is giving her away. She meets Professor Constantine, who is a fire elementalist and a Hunter as well. (Hunters being the ones who want to expose and destroy her). But he's hers as well and between the two of them help her make her shadows look normal.. que the hunter trials and the pressures mount up. Dive into this beautifully written story with complex characters and plot twists that keep your head spinning turning pages throughout to find out how she makes it to the end of the year! I loved reading this story and highly recommend it! I can't wait to see what happens next! Don't miss out on this book!!
March 12, 2026
I struggled with this story. I do not understand why Bael insisted she go to the academy, especially when it seems like he taught her most of how to control her shadows after she got there and people there mentioned it was possible for her family not to afford the academy in the first place. Having taken care of her bloodline for generations should have allowed Bael to help her without her attending and putting her life in danger. There were a ton of other strange plot choices from the author that I questioned. But maybe they were made in haste, since it seems like the book was quickly edited. There are a large number of continuity errors. At one point Ashley says that Bael said he called her his mate when they met. This never took place. I even went back and checked. Some people are introduced more than once back to back. Over all this book needs a ton of work. I just don't know that I could recommend it in the state that it is in right now.
March 20, 2026
This book kept me on the edge of my seat and turning the pages. I absolutely loved this book and it was just what I needed. The character development, the plot, storytelling, character relationships made me love this story so much.
This is dark fantasy with a very slow burn , action packed, and academy with some of the best trials. I love our FMC Ashley who is morally grey heroine who is connected to very dangerous men.
Ashley has transformed into a very powerful, dangerous , and rare creature. She has rare capabilities that continue to expand with each bond she makes making her a target with the other factions of the academy.
Our 2 MMC’s are Bael and Constantine who are very broody, dangerous, and jealous of what each are teaching Ashley to keep her safe. I adore both of these men so much.
I finished this a few days ago and they are all still living in my head rent free. Which means I need book 2 asap.
This is dark fantasy with a very slow burn , action packed, and academy with some of the best trials. I love our FMC Ashley who is morally grey heroine who is connected to very dangerous men.
Ashley has transformed into a very powerful, dangerous , and rare creature. She has rare capabilities that continue to expand with each bond she makes making her a target with the other factions of the academy.
Our 2 MMC’s are Bael and Constantine who are very broody, dangerous, and jealous of what each are teaching Ashley to keep her safe. I adore both of these men so much.
I finished this a few days ago and they are all still living in my head rent free. Which means I need book 2 asap.
March 30, 2026
Ok, I have to be honest and while I enjoyed the storyline, if I could do 3.5 stars instead of rounding up I would, because the book has some issues. I have read and thoroughly enjoyed other works by this author, with the odd exception, and I expected more I guess. It took me an unusually long time to commit to finishing it, after struggling to engage at all, which is the first signs for me that it isn’t as good as I am used to, as I easily read a book in one sitting regularly. I do enjoy the characters, and I want to love the story but the degree of repetition of facts, and some timeline issues that had me lost and confused on occasion, took away from the flow and ability to fully immerse myself.
Overall it is a good story, with the fight against evil and need to balance the world feels, plus the slow burn romance/mate bond (although this too felt dragged out then suddenly brought together in a way that felt rushed and diminished). If you enjoy a dark vs light academy setting UF, with deadly trials, fated mates, change the world and save the day type read, this will be for you. Providing you also enjoy a longer read but with a degree of repeat scenario outcomes, and a slow burn romance, it could be what you are looking for. I will wait to see what the second book brings before judging the series, as I know what this author can produce when she is on point and it may still turn around and find the five stars I am used to in the long run.
Overall it is a good story, with the fight against evil and need to balance the world feels, plus the slow burn romance/mate bond (although this too felt dragged out then suddenly brought together in a way that felt rushed and diminished). If you enjoy a dark vs light academy setting UF, with deadly trials, fated mates, change the world and save the day type read, this will be for you. Providing you also enjoy a longer read but with a degree of repeat scenario outcomes, and a slow burn romance, it could be what you are looking for. I will wait to see what the second book brings before judging the series, as I know what this author can produce when she is on point and it may still turn around and find the five stars I am used to in the long run.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow, this is a powerful book. It's Hunger Games verus evil Hunters. Ashley accends on her 20th birthday and her secret vampire guardian Bael is there to help. He hides her at Greyson Academy among light and dark nephilium and gifted humans. Apparently Hunters run the Academy and put every student through trails to see their advanced capabilities. The head hunter focuses his attention on Ashley and sends really bad ancient beings with overbearing power to draw out her shadows. She is the prophecy that is suppose to bring light and dark together and the head hunter wants to stop that from happening at all cost.
This story is full of adventure and challenges that pulls an avid reader into the scenes. As always Serenity uses her descriptive language to draw the readers attention to the details and paints colorful images into the mind. Fantastic Read.
This story is full of adventure and challenges that pulls an avid reader into the scenes. As always Serenity uses her descriptive language to draw the readers attention to the details and paints colorful images into the mind. Fantastic Read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is definitely different compared to the Dragonis series' but still just as gripping in the world building, plot and character development. Ashley's powers as an Ascendant were interesting to learn about in their vast range compared to the light and dark Nephilim. It was interesting to see how blood and fire integrated with her powers from Bael and Constantine whose steadfast support and teachings have helped Ashley survive and grow so far. The pacing of their relationship developments is definitely slow burn and is focused on slowly developing which I'm liking. The ending is left open and in a good spot which keeps you looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book. Looking forward to seeing where this goes next.
March 12, 2026
Book 1 was great and she keeps going with book 2.
The Secrets We Keep follows a heroine whose living shadows make her too powerful to exist safely, and now she must survive inside a supernatural academy built on faction politics and constant surveillance. The tension between protection, desire, and duty is already pulling me in.
Tropes I’m here for:
🔥 Fated Mates
🏫 Dark Academia
📖 Why Choose
💔 Teacher to Lovers
✨ Ancient Rivalries
🖤 Morally Gray FMC
Thank you @author.serenity.rayne and @literaryinspired for this ARC opportunity. I’m starting tonight.
#LiteraryInspiredARCs #DarkAcademiaRomance #ParanormalRomance #WhyChoose #FatedMates #Romantasy #Bookstagram
The Secrets We Keep follows a heroine whose living shadows make her too powerful to exist safely, and now she must survive inside a supernatural academy built on faction politics and constant surveillance. The tension between protection, desire, and duty is already pulling me in.
Tropes I’m here for:
🔥 Fated Mates
🏫 Dark Academia
📖 Why Choose
💔 Teacher to Lovers
✨ Ancient Rivalries
🖤 Morally Gray FMC
Thank you @author.serenity.rayne and @literaryinspired for this ARC opportunity. I’m starting tonight.
#LiteraryInspiredARCs #DarkAcademiaRomance #ParanormalRomance #WhyChoose #FatedMates #Romantasy #Bookstagram
March 13, 2026
First let me start off by saying I became aware of Serenity Rayne through one of her recent series Dragonis Academy and I really enjoyed that all throughout. So I was excited when I saw this start of a new series with a story completely new however while the story overall is interesting I don’t feel the writing is as strong. The descriptions start to become repetitive with the same words being used too frequently like we the reader forgot that a character smells like winter or cologne. There was also a part that talked about the FMC escaping that night and then by the next chapter it was never mentioned again and the story continued like that never happened. While overall the story is interesting and unique there needs to be some fine tuning when it comes to book 2.
March 13, 2026
Ashley Dawn’s secret could get her killed. Once human now turned Crimson Ascendant, she must hide in plain sight to survive. Her guardian Bael is a vampire dark nephilim whose blood may fulfill a part of the prophecy while the hunter professor Constantine’s fire is the other. Drawn to them both can she survive the trials to come?
Hierarchy, surveillance, and an order that doesn’t want to change, what more could you ask for in a read? Slow burn romance mixed with politics, tension, deadly trials and more! I loved the world building and have fallen in love with the characters. Rooting for Ashley to prove that all the senseless genocide was preventing the peace. I thought there’d be more significant connection with Iris but maybe in the next book.
Hierarchy, surveillance, and an order that doesn’t want to change, what more could you ask for in a read? Slow burn romance mixed with politics, tension, deadly trials and more! I loved the world building and have fallen in love with the characters. Rooting for Ashley to prove that all the senseless genocide was preventing the peace. I thought there’d be more significant connection with Iris but maybe in the next book.
March 14, 2026
If you loved Dragonis Academy, you need to pick up The Secrets We Keep today.
Serenity Rayne’s move into dark academia feels deliberate and controlled. The worldbuilding around Greyson Academy, the faction hierarchy, and the forbidden Ascendant mythology all layer beautifully with the slow-burn romantic tension. I finished it wanting more of this world immediately.
This is for readers who enjoy:
🔥 Fated Mates
🏫 Dark Academia
📖 Why Choose
⚔️ Deadly War Games
✨ Ancient Rivalries
🖤 Morally Complex FMC
It’s out now on KU. Congratulations @author.serenity.rayne and thank you @literaryinspired for organising the ARC read.
#LiteraryInspiredARCs #DarkAcademiaRomance #ParanormalRomance #WhyChoose #FatedMates #Romantasy #KindleUnlimited
March 16, 2026
So I will start off by saying I did enjoy the book and the storyline but I struggled to stay focused on this one. I feel like it could have been shorter since there was quite a bit of repetition of dialogue speaking about what they would do next. At one point they were even talking about escaping the next morning and then the next day it wasn’t mentioned until the end of the day when they started talking about escape again as if it hadn’t already been the plan for the previous day. I also didn’t quite feel the emotional connection that she supposedly has through her mate bond with Bael. And especially the bond she share with Constantine which is not a mate bond? Again the story itself was enjoyable though besides some flow issues.
March 26, 2026
This is the first book in the Greyson Academy series. I am not sure how many books there will be (Amazon says 2) but I am sure there will be a few more…I will definitely read them all! This book has me hooked.
I love the paranormal academy reverse harem series. I love them because of wonderful authors like Serenity Rayne, among a few others. I can honestly sayI enjoyed reading this book so much. I feel for this FMC so much. She has so much piled on her plate and I am not sure she could handle it all. The MMCs are total opposites. I have to say my favorite is Bael. What can I say? I love bad boys.
Thank you, Serenity Rayne, for another enthralling academy series. I cannot wait until the next book is released. I am loving these characters and I hate the bad guy so much!!
I love the paranormal academy reverse harem series. I love them because of wonderful authors like Serenity Rayne, among a few others. I can honestly sayI enjoyed reading this book so much. I feel for this FMC so much. She has so much piled on her plate and I am not sure she could handle it all. The MMCs are total opposites. I have to say my favorite is Bael. What can I say? I love bad boys.
Thank you, Serenity Rayne, for another enthralling academy series. I cannot wait until the next book is released. I am loving these characters and I hate the bad guy so much!!
March 13, 2026
Interesting
This world is so intriguing. I’m really digging the shadows and their different uses. Plus the addition of other types of powers and how they can all work together. Our fmc gets her world thrown upside down and inside out with no warning. She’s tossed to the wolves with minimal to no real guidance. Trying to navigate them, her powers and two men who seem to pop up at every turn is a lot. But slowly she gains confidence, experience and knowledge. Her tenacity definitely helps her keep semi afloat while everything else is trying to sink her. I’m super curious what’s next for her. I have tons of questions and will definitely be keeping my eyes out for the next book to see if any of them get answered.
This world is so intriguing. I’m really digging the shadows and their different uses. Plus the addition of other types of powers and how they can all work together. Our fmc gets her world thrown upside down and inside out with no warning. She’s tossed to the wolves with minimal to no real guidance. Trying to navigate them, her powers and two men who seem to pop up at every turn is a lot. But slowly she gains confidence, experience and knowledge. Her tenacity definitely helps her keep semi afloat while everything else is trying to sink her. I’m super curious what’s next for her. I have tons of questions and will definitely be keeping my eyes out for the next book to see if any of them get answered.
March 12, 2026
On the night of her twentieth birthday Bael a fallen Nephilim with vampire blood reveals she is about to have transformation. When Bael tells her, she is an Ascendant which is a rare form of Nephilim. He gets her signed up to Greyson Academy where it’s a neutral ground for light and dark Nephilim to go and a thing called gifted humans. This book is slow burn between Bael, Constantine and Ashley as both MMC’s help her train in her new powers while try to stay hidden as if anyone finds out she can be eliminated. This is a dark academia book that leaves you on a cliffhanger that makes you want more.
March 30, 2026
I received an arc copy for review. For me I struggled with this book. Initially I really liked it, & thought the premise was fun. I enjoyed the characters, & getting to know them, however as it continued on, I felt like the story was extremely drawn out, & repetitive. There are some things that happen that kind of build the tension however they just seem to continually keep happening so I feel like that tension building kind of gets to a point where it no longer is actually a build if that makes sense. It was also kind of an insanely slow burn, that when you finally got to a spicy scene it was kind of quick & not worth all the build up in my mind.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ahsley is an ascendant that had no clue who or what she was. She always believed she was human. Bow she is sent to Greyson Academy and told to keep her nature hidden because her kind is hunted to extinction. There are many challenges she faces with one being told to hide her power when she has never had any before and understanding who and what she is. Bael and Constantine both work to help her in many ways. This book is a great start to this brand new series and the ending will have you wondering what is going to be thrown at her next.
March 8, 2026
Thank you to the author and Literary inspired for this ARC copy of this book and I am voluntarily sharing my opinions based on my own accord. I definitely enjoyed this book 100%. What I wish I could have see more of Ashley and Constantine and their relationship grow more into something but overall I definitely couldn’t stop reading this book and would recommend it. I also love the relationship that Beal and Ashley has and I can’t wait to find out what happens next and to see all of the relationships grow! Thank you again for letting me arc read!
March 20, 2026
The Secrets We Keep is an emotionally powerful story that explores trust, hidden truths, and the impact secrets can have on relationships. From the beginning, the narrative pulls you into the characters’ lives and keeps you invested in how
their stories unfold.
What stood out most to me was the emotional depth within the relationships. As the characters confront their pasts and the secrets they carry, their journeys feel both raw and meaningful.
The tension created by the hidden truths adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story. Watching those pieces slowly come together kept me curious about what would happen next.
For me, this easily earns 5 ⭐ because the emotional storytelling and character development made the story especially compelling.
This is a 5 ⭐ for me because:
• the emotional depth made the characters feel authentic
• the secrets and revelations kept the story intriguing
• the relationships added strong emotional stakes
• the narrative kept me fully invested throughout
Emotional. Intense. Captivating.
Read this book if you like:
• emotionally driven stories
• romance with deeper character struggles
• stories about secrets and personal growth
• relationship-focused narratives
their stories unfold.
What stood out most to me was the emotional depth within the relationships. As the characters confront their pasts and the secrets they carry, their journeys feel both raw and meaningful.
The tension created by the hidden truths adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story. Watching those pieces slowly come together kept me curious about what would happen next.
For me, this easily earns 5 ⭐ because the emotional storytelling and character development made the story especially compelling.
This is a 5 ⭐ for me because:
• the emotional depth made the characters feel authentic
• the secrets and revelations kept the story intriguing
• the relationships added strong emotional stakes
• the narrative kept me fully invested throughout
Emotional. Intense. Captivating.
Read this book if you like:
• emotionally driven stories
• romance with deeper character struggles
• stories about secrets and personal growth
• relationship-focused narratives
March 21, 2026
I received an early copy of this book and was hooked from the very beginning. I loved the storyline, and I’m always a sucker for academy-based stories. Add in Hunters, Light and Dark Nephilims with unique gifts, and I was completely invested. It was especially engaging watching Ashley, the FMC, as her powers and abilities started to develop.
This is a slow burn with two potential love interests, which added to the tension and intrigue. If you enjoy dark academy settings, prophecies, trials, and Nephilims, this is definitely a must-read!
This is a slow burn with two potential love interests, which added to the tension and intrigue. If you enjoy dark academy settings, prophecies, trials, and Nephilims, this is definitely a must-read!
Review of advance copy
If you enjoy Dark Academy settings, secret identities, bonds, and left wanting to know what's going to happen next The Secrets We Keep: Greyson Academy Year one has it all. Academy books are one of my favorite genres and this one was good! The challenges the FMC had to face not only her trying to keep who she really is a secret but also dealing with other students in the school and higher ups keep me hooked. Looking forward to book 2!
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