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Institute Thirteen #4
Crimson Dove
My life has never followed a plan, yet somehow it has carried me across worlds. Into magic and power I never asked for, along with truths I never expected.
Now I’m left reeling in revelations, family, and love, with everything I’ve fought for left standing on the brink of collapse.
The enemies closing in don’t want my crown or my loyalty… they want my destruction. And the only way we survive what’s coming is by risking everything we have left.
Our lives. Our bonds. Our hearts.
But some things are worth the cost.
My wolf.
My shadow fae.
My vampire.
Because a dove was never meant to conquer the sky… it was born to survive it. And survival is never gifted. It’s claimed with blood, sacrifice, and the courage to rise when the fall promises to shatter you.
This is the end of the journey.
And the moment I decide who I was always meant to become.
Crimson Dove is the explosive final installment in the Institute 13 dark fantasy academy romance series. Perfect for readers who love ruthless magical institutions, powerful heroines pushed to their limits, and dangerous men whose bonds are as deadly as they are irresistible.
Step into what remains, but be ready to fight for the cause.
Now I’m left reeling in revelations, family, and love, with everything I’ve fought for left standing on the brink of collapse.
The enemies closing in don’t want my crown or my loyalty… they want my destruction. And the only way we survive what’s coming is by risking everything we have left.
Our lives. Our bonds. Our hearts.
But some things are worth the cost.
My wolf.
My shadow fae.
My vampire.
Because a dove was never meant to conquer the sky… it was born to survive it. And survival is never gifted. It’s claimed with blood, sacrifice, and the courage to rise when the fall promises to shatter you.
This is the end of the journey.
And the moment I decide who I was always meant to become.
Crimson Dove is the explosive final installment in the Institute 13 dark fantasy academy romance series. Perfect for readers who love ruthless magical institutions, powerful heroines pushed to their limits, and dangerous men whose bonds are as deadly as they are irresistible.
Step into what remains, but be ready to fight for the cause.
518 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 27, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
April 1, 2026
I tried, I really did...
The series is well written and the majority of characters are distinct and memorable. There wasn't a ton of world building because the series is focused mainly on the bubble of "The Vale," Jude's pocket world (re:castle), and very brief honourable mentions of select earth cities. There is also no real exploration of abilities/powers or any real education of any kind happening at "The Vale." They go to or talk about going to class but they're new run class. So, I think to say this is in any way an academy centred series would be borderline false advertisement.
There were plot points that made zero sense. For example, if Walker was the son of Elodie's birth mother's best friend, and ultimately on her side, why did he not kill Jude when he was given ample opportunity to so. It was never expressly conveyed if he was or wasn't under the same mind control that others were. If he was, great, explains why he couldn't kill him and acted as minions extraordinaire. If he wasn't, then WTF? Also, Kael's mother was too blasé about the atrocities committed by Jude to ever be trusted especially when it's made clear at the end of the book how she felt about scythes.
Lastly, Elodie is an absolute shit heroine. She's contrary just for the sake of it. Thinks it makes her look tough but actually makes her look stupid. She's also a raging coward that runs from every problem in any way possible which includes burying her head in the sand. She doesn't seek out to learn what she capable of, so she can actually mean it when she says she doesn't need a "babysitter" and can take care of herself, until the eleventh hour and even then does a half assed job of it. Honestly, she reminds me of Harry Potter a bit. Meaning, without her friends saving her over and over and over again while also making all the plans, she'd be dead and their world would be hopeless. But she gets the saviour credit for delivering the last blow— just like H.P. Only, at least Harry Potter had some courage and initiative. Elodie is all bluster with nothing backing it up but the dust she's trailing behind her as she runs away crying.
I wanted to like this series but Elodie was such a trash heroine and I couldn't get behind her as a character. I stuck around for the side characters and among them the real star of the show that encapsulates what an FMC that's going to save the world should be—Ocean. Loved her character to pieces.
The series is well written and the majority of characters are distinct and memorable. There wasn't a ton of world building because the series is focused mainly on the bubble of "The Vale," Jude's pocket world (re:castle), and very brief honourable mentions of select earth cities. There is also no real exploration of abilities/powers or any real education of any kind happening at "The Vale." They go to or talk about going to class but they're new run class. So, I think to say this is in any way an academy centred series would be borderline false advertisement.
There were plot points that made zero sense. For example, if Walker was the son of Elodie's birth mother's best friend, and ultimately on her side, why did he not kill Jude when he was given ample opportunity to so. It was never expressly conveyed if he was or wasn't under the same mind control that others were. If he was, great, explains why he couldn't kill him and acted as minions extraordinaire. If he wasn't, then WTF? Also, Kael's mother was too blasé about the atrocities committed by Jude to ever be trusted especially when it's made clear at the end of the book how she felt about scythes.
Lastly, Elodie is an absolute shit heroine. She's contrary just for the sake of it. Thinks it makes her look tough but actually makes her look stupid. She's also a raging coward that runs from every problem in any way possible which includes burying her head in the sand. She doesn't seek out to learn what she capable of, so she can actually mean it when she says she doesn't need a "babysitter" and can take care of herself, until the eleventh hour and even then does a half assed job of it. Honestly, she reminds me of Harry Potter a bit. Meaning, without her friends saving her over and over and over again while also making all the plans, she'd be dead and their world would be hopeless. But she gets the saviour credit for delivering the last blow— just like H.P. Only, at least Harry Potter had some courage and initiative. Elodie is all bluster with nothing backing it up but the dust she's trailing behind her as she runs away crying.
I wanted to like this series but Elodie was such a trash heroine and I couldn't get behind her as a character. I stuck around for the side characters and among them the real star of the show that encapsulates what an FMC that's going to save the world should be—Ocean. Loved her character to pieces.
May 3, 2026
2.5 stars.
I’m 50% and these are the things I need to know or want to happen before the book is over & if they don’t then I’ll be PISSED. Update: I finished and I updated each section. This book was a disappointment compared to the others in this series… so many unanswered questions, stuff that made zero sense, & ages, numbers, places, etc kept changing from the other books and leaving me confused.
• First of all the spice is getting so repetitive. I miss the sharing scenes between Rion & Kael. We only got like 1-2 😭 I swear if I don’t get a group sex scene between all 4 of them before the series is over, I will cry. Also if Rion doesn’t take Elodies anal virginity after saying he was over 3 times … I’m also gonna be pissed. UPDATE: I finished and there was 1 group scene between all 4 of them but it was short and not that great. 🥲
• If we don’t find out the deal with Walker? Like does he hate he and betrayed her or is he secretly trying to still protect her? I don’t get what his endgame is and I need to know. UPDATE: okay so we still don’t know what the fuck his deal was really and why he did what he did and what he was. Elodie killed him after he made her…
• Elodies Magic… please for fucksake let her start using it. It’s been 4 books almost and she has only used her magic a handful of times. Like I want to see her do some badass shit with it, not change some blades of grass. UPDATE: so she does save rions life by siphoning someone who was alive and gave there life to him which was cool but her shadow fae magic only worked in the shadow realm and we didn’t get to see her purple shadows and magic until the epilogue when the shadow realm was restored because she was pregnant with thornes baby.
• YOU MAKE THEM GO TO THIS SEXY BACKROOM WHERE VAMPIRES ARE FEEDING ON GIRLS NAKED AND DONT GIVE ME A SCENE WHERE KAEL BITES AND FEEDS ON ELODIE IN A SEXY WAY… I’ll never forgive you. Like why put a vampire in your smutty little academy book and not give me a feeding scene. UPDATE: this didn’t happen and I’m pissed about it honestly.
Okay so the third book Jude was 5 years older than Kael and then at 86% through the final book, Elodie asks him how much older is Jude than him and he says “seventeen years.” There is also a scene I think in book 1 or maybe 2 where they are in the gym and Elodie turns into a wolf and collapses after a battle with Willow but in the 4th book she acts like that’s her first time being a wolf. There is so many inconsistencies besides these as well which are super annoying.
All in all I enjoyed this series but I wish the ending was more tight and packed together instead of being all over the place. Them searching for the scythe book going through all the different wells and the killer mermaid and going back and forth to Paris was getting so repetitive and confusing. This series started out so fucking good, I’m so sad to see it end like this..
I’m 50% and these are the things I need to know or want to happen before the book is over & if they don’t then I’ll be PISSED. Update: I finished and I updated each section. This book was a disappointment compared to the others in this series… so many unanswered questions, stuff that made zero sense, & ages, numbers, places, etc kept changing from the other books and leaving me confused.
• First of all the spice is getting so repetitive. I miss the sharing scenes between Rion & Kael. We only got like 1-2 😭 I swear if I don’t get a group sex scene between all 4 of them before the series is over, I will cry. Also if Rion doesn’t take Elodies anal virginity after saying he was over 3 times … I’m also gonna be pissed. UPDATE: I finished and there was 1 group scene between all 4 of them but it was short and not that great. 🥲
• If we don’t find out the deal with Walker? Like does he hate he and betrayed her or is he secretly trying to still protect her? I don’t get what his endgame is and I need to know. UPDATE: okay so we still don’t know what the fuck his deal was really and why he did what he did and what he was. Elodie killed him after he made her…
• Elodies Magic… please for fucksake let her start using it. It’s been 4 books almost and she has only used her magic a handful of times. Like I want to see her do some badass shit with it, not change some blades of grass. UPDATE: so she does save rions life by siphoning someone who was alive and gave there life to him which was cool but her shadow fae magic only worked in the shadow realm and we didn’t get to see her purple shadows and magic until the epilogue when the shadow realm was restored because she was pregnant with thornes baby.
• YOU MAKE THEM GO TO THIS SEXY BACKROOM WHERE VAMPIRES ARE FEEDING ON GIRLS NAKED AND DONT GIVE ME A SCENE WHERE KAEL BITES AND FEEDS ON ELODIE IN A SEXY WAY… I’ll never forgive you. Like why put a vampire in your smutty little academy book and not give me a feeding scene. UPDATE: this didn’t happen and I’m pissed about it honestly.
Okay so the third book Jude was 5 years older than Kael and then at 86% through the final book, Elodie asks him how much older is Jude than him and he says “seventeen years.” There is also a scene I think in book 1 or maybe 2 where they are in the gym and Elodie turns into a wolf and collapses after a battle with Willow but in the 4th book she acts like that’s her first time being a wolf. There is so many inconsistencies besides these as well which are super annoying.
All in all I enjoyed this series but I wish the ending was more tight and packed together instead of being all over the place. Them searching for the scythe book going through all the different wells and the killer mermaid and going back and forth to Paris was getting so repetitive and confusing. This series started out so fucking good, I’m so sad to see it end like this..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 30, 2026
End of Elodie's story
Elodie's series was fantastic! I loved it and couldnt get enough of her and her men. Her family may have abandoned her in the way she wasn't expecting and grew up in a life that wasn't the best, but she has found her home in her found family. Found family that will always have her back and believe in her no matter what. I didn't want her story to end, but so glad that she was able to have everything she deserved in life.
While I hate to leave Institute Thirteen, I am excited for a new series coming soon!
Elodie's series was fantastic! I loved it and couldnt get enough of her and her men. Her family may have abandoned her in the way she wasn't expecting and grew up in a life that wasn't the best, but she has found her home in her found family. Found family that will always have her back and believe in her no matter what. I didn't want her story to end, but so glad that she was able to have everything she deserved in life.
While I hate to leave Institute Thirteen, I am excited for a new series coming soon!
March 22, 2026
Elodie, Kael, Rion, + Thorne
-mfmm whychoose
-dark pnr institute
-vampire, wolf, shadow fae
-forbidden magic
-secrets
-final book
this got wrapped up all nicely for our crew! & we finally got a big ol orgy!! my favorite thing about rh hahah
-mfmm whychoose
-dark pnr institute
-vampire, wolf, shadow fae
-forbidden magic
-secrets
-final book
this got wrapped up all nicely for our crew! & we finally got a big ol orgy!! my favorite thing about rh hahah
April 7, 2026
The epic conclusion to the Institute Thirteen series. I devoured this book in mere hours. The usual for one of KC Kean's books.
It starts right where book three leaves off. Elodie continues to learn more about herself and her past. So many surprises and plot twists I do not see coming. Thorne, Kael, and Rion continue to support her while learning more about their own pasts as well. All three are willing to risk it all to defend Elodie and the others. They have become a chosen family, their bonds stronger than blood. It is thrilling and suspenseful with lots of spice between all four of them. Ocean is still the best friend ever and such a deeply interesting character. The plot flows so smoothly making the pages practically turn themselves. Each character gets their own perspectives and there is so much depth to each of them.
It is hard to say much more because this book is so full of action and one situation after another and any little thing might give away a significant plot point and ruin the surprise.
I will say this is one wild ride and I recommend highly taking it. It is part of a four book series, so reading the first three is a must, but so worth it.
This is one more fantastic series from a romantasy genius.
A big thank you to KC Kean for the advanced copy to read and review.
It starts right where book three leaves off. Elodie continues to learn more about herself and her past. So many surprises and plot twists I do not see coming. Thorne, Kael, and Rion continue to support her while learning more about their own pasts as well. All three are willing to risk it all to defend Elodie and the others. They have become a chosen family, their bonds stronger than blood. It is thrilling and suspenseful with lots of spice between all four of them. Ocean is still the best friend ever and such a deeply interesting character. The plot flows so smoothly making the pages practically turn themselves. Each character gets their own perspectives and there is so much depth to each of them.
It is hard to say much more because this book is so full of action and one situation after another and any little thing might give away a significant plot point and ruin the surprise.
I will say this is one wild ride and I recommend highly taking it. It is part of a four book series, so reading the first three is a must, but so worth it.
This is one more fantastic series from a romantasy genius.
A big thank you to KC Kean for the advanced copy to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*Reverse Harem
*Paranormal
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Prison/Academy
*’Thought she was human’
*Touch her and 💀
*Morally grey men
*Insta-Attraction
*Mixed supe harem
*Established harem (3)
*Fast Burn
*Book 4 / 4
Way to go Elodie 😍
There’s so much going on in this last book, it’s keeps you captivated and moving through the story quickly as you don’t want to put it down!
It starts of after that mega cliffhanger of the previous book and honestly just keeps rolling from there - there’s a lot of different family drama for each of the members of this harem ranging from heart-warming to heart-breaking, and downright vengeful against others 😡😡 the only thing that did confused me was how they actually ended/got rid of Jude at the end 😳 that might just be me
There is a bit of a quest almost in this book for Elodie to find out more about her magic and the role she has in bringing about her enemies downfall and there’s plenty of action along the way 🙈
The best thing was seeing how they came together as a unit - the boys all accepting each others ‘moments’ and how the accept Ocean into their unit is adorable 🥰 they also really ramp up the group scenes in this book 🔥🌶️
A satisfying HEA and epilogue to a unique series 😃
*Paranormal
*Multi-1st-PoV
*Prison/Academy
*’Thought she was human’
*Touch her and 💀
*Morally grey men
*Insta-Attraction
*Mixed supe harem
*Established harem (3)
*Fast Burn
*Book 4 / 4
Way to go Elodie 😍
There’s so much going on in this last book, it’s keeps you captivated and moving through the story quickly as you don’t want to put it down!
It starts of after that mega cliffhanger of the previous book and honestly just keeps rolling from there - there’s a lot of different family drama for each of the members of this harem ranging from heart-warming to heart-breaking, and downright vengeful against others 😡😡 the only thing that did confused me was how they actually ended/got rid of Jude at the end 😳 that might just be me
There is a bit of a quest almost in this book for Elodie to find out more about her magic and the role she has in bringing about her enemies downfall and there’s plenty of action along the way 🙈
The best thing was seeing how they came together as a unit - the boys all accepting each others ‘moments’ and how the accept Ocean into their unit is adorable 🥰 they also really ramp up the group scenes in this book 🔥🌶️
A satisfying HEA and epilogue to a unique series 😃
April 10, 2026
Oh my that ending was perfection. The whole book itself was the perfect conclusion to a brilliant story. I loved these characters from day one and by the end, I loved them more than any others I have done in a long time. Anything this author puts down, I devour, with her books just getting so much better and yet her first series is incredible. So it says it all, does it not?
One of the main things that I loved throughout without a doubt was Ocean and Elodie’s friendship. I love Ocean, everyone needs a bestie like her. The way she is always there no matter what for Elodie, and even her friendships with the guys, becoming more familial, I loved.
Elodie is a force to be reckoned with throughout but I love how much the guys come through for her in this book, showing how much they love and will do anything to protect her and be who she needs them to be. The things they do to redeem and open themselves up to her will leave your heart wide open, falling more and more for them.
I loved these characters so much, and will no doubt be reading this series again very very soon. Filled with action, plenty of steamy parts, and emotional moments that tug at your heartstrings, what’s not to love.
Brilliant!
One of the main things that I loved throughout without a doubt was Ocean and Elodie’s friendship. I love Ocean, everyone needs a bestie like her. The way she is always there no matter what for Elodie, and even her friendships with the guys, becoming more familial, I loved.
Elodie is a force to be reckoned with throughout but I love how much the guys come through for her in this book, showing how much they love and will do anything to protect her and be who she needs them to be. The things they do to redeem and open themselves up to her will leave your heart wide open, falling more and more for them.
I loved these characters so much, and will no doubt be reading this series again very very soon. Filled with action, plenty of steamy parts, and emotional moments that tug at your heartstrings, what’s not to love.
Brilliant!
March 29, 2026
Another amazing series!
I was so enthralled with this series from the very beginning & I was so anxious for this book to come out so I could see how they finally handled Jude & The Sanctum.
Elodie has had so much thrown at her from the very beginning of this story, sometimes it felt incredibly overwhelming.
And with all of this new information being thrown at her about her parents & Thorne’s, then having to cope with how Kael has played into all of this, she is understandably stressed & very worried.
But now with the prospect of seeing her parents again & having the power to overthrow Jude, hope is finally on the horizon.
But a Elodie still has to figure out how exactly to do all of this & that presets its own set of problems. But thankfully with the help of her men & Ocean, they all overcome it & reunite every one & take down the veil & the Sanctum, & Jude.
That epilogue was definitely very sweet & obviously a huge part of me would love to see more of their future but it was still the perfect ending.
Absolutely loved this book & this series so much. I am so excited for KC Kean’s next series!
Amazing job!
I was so enthralled with this series from the very beginning & I was so anxious for this book to come out so I could see how they finally handled Jude & The Sanctum.
Elodie has had so much thrown at her from the very beginning of this story, sometimes it felt incredibly overwhelming.
And with all of this new information being thrown at her about her parents & Thorne’s, then having to cope with how Kael has played into all of this, she is understandably stressed & very worried.
But now with the prospect of seeing her parents again & having the power to overthrow Jude, hope is finally on the horizon.
But a Elodie still has to figure out how exactly to do all of this & that presets its own set of problems. But thankfully with the help of her men & Ocean, they all overcome it & reunite every one & take down the veil & the Sanctum, & Jude.
That epilogue was definitely very sweet & obviously a huge part of me would love to see more of their future but it was still the perfect ending.
Absolutely loved this book & this series so much. I am so excited for KC Kean’s next series!
Amazing job!
April 18, 2026
A Decent Conclusion, but…
There are some inconsistencies here, like the author forgot what was written in the previous books. Things are also incredibly vague in the epilogue. Where do they live? What does Elodie do? Kael is healing - what does that look like? Rion is creating bonds with other packs - what does that look like? Ocean’s coven - who are the people in it? It just left me with more questions.
I did enjoy the stuff surrounding Elodie’s parents, I thought the emotion was well conveyed. However, for the first 60% of the book, Elodie was still useless. No getting stronger, no getting smarter - which she admits herself. Three and a half books of “I can’t wrap my head around that” and “my brain can’t handle that right now” and “I need distraction instead” (aka more smut). It was just incredibly frustrating to read and I was grateful Elodie calmed down the defiance, secret keeping and calling everybody liars in this last book.
Over all, I’d give the series a 2. There were a lot of failed and abandoned plot lines that if explored, and done well, could have really benefitted the story.
There are some inconsistencies here, like the author forgot what was written in the previous books. Things are also incredibly vague in the epilogue. Where do they live? What does Elodie do? Kael is healing - what does that look like? Rion is creating bonds with other packs - what does that look like? Ocean’s coven - who are the people in it? It just left me with more questions.
I did enjoy the stuff surrounding Elodie’s parents, I thought the emotion was well conveyed. However, for the first 60% of the book, Elodie was still useless. No getting stronger, no getting smarter - which she admits herself. Three and a half books of “I can’t wrap my head around that” and “my brain can’t handle that right now” and “I need distraction instead” (aka more smut). It was just incredibly frustrating to read and I was grateful Elodie calmed down the defiance, secret keeping and calling everybody liars in this last book.
Over all, I’d give the series a 2. There were a lot of failed and abandoned plot lines that if explored, and done well, could have really benefitted the story.
April 6, 2026
Such a strong ending to this series—I honestly didn’t want it to be over.
This book picks up right after the last cliffhanger and just keeps going. It’s fast-paced, full of action, twists, and emotional moments that keep you hooked the whole way through.
Elodie’s growth really stands out—she’s come so far, and it’s satisfying to see her fully step into her power. I also loved the dynamic between her and the guys. I couldn’t even pick a favorite this time—they all bring something different, and together they just work so well. Seeing them come together as a unit (and fully embrace Ocean) was a highlight.
There’s a nice mix of action, relationship development, and backstory that helps tie everything together. The ending felt satisfying, with a solid HEA—though I definitely wouldn’t have minded a longer epilogue because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye.
Overall, an amazing, addictive series with a great final book.
This book picks up right after the last cliffhanger and just keeps going. It’s fast-paced, full of action, twists, and emotional moments that keep you hooked the whole way through.
Elodie’s growth really stands out—she’s come so far, and it’s satisfying to see her fully step into her power. I also loved the dynamic between her and the guys. I couldn’t even pick a favorite this time—they all bring something different, and together they just work so well. Seeing them come together as a unit (and fully embrace Ocean) was a highlight.
There’s a nice mix of action, relationship development, and backstory that helps tie everything together. The ending felt satisfying, with a solid HEA—though I definitely wouldn’t have minded a longer epilogue because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye.
Overall, an amazing, addictive series with a great final book.
March 27, 2026
I absolutely loved this series, I honestly didn’t want it to end.
This last book in the series tied everything together for a utterly beautiful happy ending.
Families are reunited and found families are built, the forgiveness and closure was perfectly written.
The steamy group scenes in this book were 🙌🏼🥵🫦🔥
While Elodie and her men were phenomenal characters, each with their own darkness and issues, my fav character was Ocean. And in this book seeing how they all accept her into the group was adorable.
Their journey in this book we see Elodie seeking out more about her unique magical powers. The suspense and action kept me on the edge of my chair, I adore this writer’s creativity and writing style - the outside world fades away and I fall into the book world oh so easily.
While I’m sad this series is over, I can’t wait to see what this author writes next.
This last book in the series tied everything together for a utterly beautiful happy ending.
Families are reunited and found families are built, the forgiveness and closure was perfectly written.
The steamy group scenes in this book were 🙌🏼🥵🫦🔥
While Elodie and her men were phenomenal characters, each with their own darkness and issues, my fav character was Ocean. And in this book seeing how they all accept her into the group was adorable.
Their journey in this book we see Elodie seeking out more about her unique magical powers. The suspense and action kept me on the edge of my chair, I adore this writer’s creativity and writing style - the outside world fades away and I fall into the book world oh so easily.
While I’m sad this series is over, I can’t wait to see what this author writes next.
March 28, 2026
Another why choose series complete by KC Kean 👏🏻
Institute Thirteen is a dark academia why choose paranormal series of four books each packed with plot twists and the spice gets spicier as you go.
Books:
Wicked Dove
Broken Dove
Vengeful Dove
Crimson Dove
Elodie ends up going from one horrific reality to another only to end up trapped at the institute where she will be challenged every day whether it is by the villains haunting her every move, bullies trying to test her patience or three brooding men that are out to win over her heart.
She faces learning the secrets that have been hidden away about her past and has to make a decision to harness her powers and face her villains head on or make a run for it.
Tropes:
Vampires, Scythes, Shadow Fae, Wolves, Witches
Strong FMC
Obsessive MMCs
Found family
Dark academia
Spicy spice
Why choose
Institute Thirteen is a dark academia why choose paranormal series of four books each packed with plot twists and the spice gets spicier as you go.
Books:
Wicked Dove
Broken Dove
Vengeful Dove
Crimson Dove
Elodie ends up going from one horrific reality to another only to end up trapped at the institute where she will be challenged every day whether it is by the villains haunting her every move, bullies trying to test her patience or three brooding men that are out to win over her heart.
She faces learning the secrets that have been hidden away about her past and has to make a decision to harness her powers and face her villains head on or make a run for it.
Tropes:
Vampires, Scythes, Shadow Fae, Wolves, Witches
Strong FMC
Obsessive MMCs
Found family
Dark academia
Spicy spice
Why choose
April 6, 2026
I loved the ending to Elodie's story. I feel that this series had higher stakes then some of the others that KC has written and it was fun to read how everyone navigated them. This one also felt darker somehow. Between the parents that she grew up with and the constant betrayal and torture she faced, Elodie really did come into her own when it came to protecting herself, her power, and the people she loved.
I loved Rion and Thorne - I warmed up to Kael but the others were so much better for her. Thorne was so much more understandable once he opened up to Elodie, while Rion was always just a giant golden retriever.
Ocean was a great best friend and never once backed down when it came to helping everyone.
All in all it was a great series and I can't wait to see what KC comes up with next.
I loved Rion and Thorne - I warmed up to Kael but the others were so much better for her. Thorne was so much more understandable once he opened up to Elodie, while Rion was always just a giant golden retriever.
Ocean was a great best friend and never once backed down when it came to helping everyone.
All in all it was a great series and I can't wait to see what KC comes up with next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This happily ever after was hard earned and won. So much happened in this final chapter of the Institute Thirteen series. Families were reunited, found family was appreciated, so many answers were revealed and a lot of action happened. I was a little sad to have Kael leave the group as a mole for his brother so soon, as I loved having Elodie, Rion, Thorne, Kael and Ocean all together. Their group was always fun to see and interact together. I love how the BFF status between Rion and Ocean was cemented, and true forgiveness and acceptance was given between Thorne and Kael with Elodie. There was a lot of action happening that kept the pace hopping for the final chapter, but I'm so happy we got the HEA that was deserved.
March 28, 2026
Hold on and buckle up!
Crimson Dove is the fourth and final book in the Institute Thirteen series. There's no going back and Elodie is ready to fight...for herself, her friend, and for the guys that have let her know that she's not alone.
Crazy plans will come together as Elodie, Rion, Kael, Thorne, and Ocean take the fight to Jude. One that puts one of them at great risk. I don't want to spoil anything for others so I won't give details, but be ready for an epic showdown.
Secrets are revealed, danger is everywhere, unknown enemies will be brought to light, and a history of the supernatural world will never be the same again.
An outstanding conclusion to this amazing series! I look forward to whatever this author brings next.
Crimson Dove is the fourth and final book in the Institute Thirteen series. There's no going back and Elodie is ready to fight...for herself, her friend, and for the guys that have let her know that she's not alone.
Crazy plans will come together as Elodie, Rion, Kael, Thorne, and Ocean take the fight to Jude. One that puts one of them at great risk. I don't want to spoil anything for others so I won't give details, but be ready for an epic showdown.
Secrets are revealed, danger is everywhere, unknown enemies will be brought to light, and a history of the supernatural world will never be the same again.
An outstanding conclusion to this amazing series! I look forward to whatever this author brings next.
March 29, 2026
The finale was everything I hoped for and more
This final installment of the Institute 13 series did not disappoint. Elodie continued to discover who she really was and what that meant. As she discovered the truth about what being a scythe means she really came into her own and it was spectacular.
Ocean stood by her bestie along with Thorne, Rion and Kael. I loved their found family dynamic and how close they all became.
I loved every minute leading up to the showdown with Jude and also the one with The Sanctum. It was everything I hoped it would be. The ending was perfect.
Buckle up and enjoy Institute 13. It's everything and I highly recommend it. Join Elodie and her shadow fae, vampire and wolf shifter for a wild ride where very little is as it seems.
This final installment of the Institute 13 series did not disappoint. Elodie continued to discover who she really was and what that meant. As she discovered the truth about what being a scythe means she really came into her own and it was spectacular.
Ocean stood by her bestie along with Thorne, Rion and Kael. I loved their found family dynamic and how close they all became.
I loved every minute leading up to the showdown with Jude and also the one with The Sanctum. It was everything I hoped it would be. The ending was perfect.
Buckle up and enjoy Institute 13. It's everything and I highly recommend it. Join Elodie and her shadow fae, vampire and wolf shifter for a wild ride where very little is as it seems.
April 4, 2026
K.C. is Queen of fantasy. She's on fire too. she's giving us full series one right after another and I love it.
Elodie is a Scythe, what is that? she doesn't even know that herself. She finds herself thrown into a supernatural prison in a supernatural world she never knew existed. She was already fighting for survival every day before then, now thrown in people with abilities and she's drowning. She doesn't know who to trust at first and when she finally realizes that the people she's trying not to give herself to are hiding things from her. Can she forgive them? Will she fall in love? Will she finally find out who she really is and what she can do? ? ?
Pick up this series. Pick up everything this amazing author writes. Its all Gold. I absolutely love and recommend everything.
Elodie is a Scythe, what is that? she doesn't even know that herself. She finds herself thrown into a supernatural prison in a supernatural world she never knew existed. She was already fighting for survival every day before then, now thrown in people with abilities and she's drowning. She doesn't know who to trust at first and when she finally realizes that the people she's trying not to give herself to are hiding things from her. Can she forgive them? Will she fall in love? Will she finally find out who she really is and what she can do? ? ?
Pick up this series. Pick up everything this amazing author writes. Its all Gold. I absolutely love and recommend everything.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve been impatiently waiting for this book since I finished Vengeful Dove and it was everything I was hoping for and expecting it to be. This book is action packed, from learning new information, meeting new characters, getting to know other characters, along with some well deserved deaths. 😏 The character growth for all of our main characters, from the first book through to the end of this one, was astounding. They all changed and grew so much and really came into their own, and this book showcased that so well. Once you start reading this book, buckle up, because you’re not going to want to put it down until you finish.
I’m sad to leave this world and these characters but as always I’m excited to see what K.C. is going to give us next.
I’m sad to leave this world and these characters but as always I’m excited to see what K.C. is going to give us next.
March 30, 2026
Crimson Dove is the fourth and final book in this series and it has been a hell of a ride!
Elodie, Kael, Rion and Thorne face more challenges in the fight against Jude and the Sanctum.
I really enjoyed this final book, it was action packed with moments of intimacy squeezed between. There were relationship developments, reveals and plenty of flashbacks that filled in the blanks of history.
This series has become one of my favourites by KC Kean and the ending satisfied all that I needed. My only complaint is to have a longer epilogue, only because I didn't want it to be the end of these characters.
Elodie, Kael, Rion and Thorne face more challenges in the fight against Jude and the Sanctum.
I really enjoyed this final book, it was action packed with moments of intimacy squeezed between. There were relationship developments, reveals and plenty of flashbacks that filled in the blanks of history.
This series has become one of my favourites by KC Kean and the ending satisfied all that I needed. My only complaint is to have a longer epilogue, only because I didn't want it to be the end of these characters.
April 6, 2026
As the final words drift off the page, and book four comes to a close, it is a bittersweet goodbye. Kael, Elodie, Rion and Thorne are not easily forgotten. This series quickly became one of my very favorites. The epitomy of the found family trope, KC Kean has once again given us characters that allow us to be deeply embed in their world. "Forever Outcasts, always a family" is hands down the underlying theme that resonates strongest in this final book. Not to make things easy, the four are thrown into turmoil and danger again and again. We get to see a softer side of each of the MMC as they come to the realization that their story revolves around the girl that has claimed all of their hearts. ( even as she fought it every step of the way). Brilliant series, loved everything about it!!!
April 10, 2026
Excellent final book
I was frustrated by the slow start in the first two books. They were chaotic and the characters didn’t seem to have a clear goal beyond survival.
I’m glad that I kept reading. I also appreciate the thought that went into the building of the reverse harem relationship. The characters each had their own depth and traumas to cope with.
This series was definitely worth the time. I will continue to follow this author.
It seems like a small thing, but it really helps me that it’s easy to check which pov the chapter I’m reading is written from. Many thanks to the author or editor who made that decision.
I was frustrated by the slow start in the first two books. They were chaotic and the characters didn’t seem to have a clear goal beyond survival.
I’m glad that I kept reading. I also appreciate the thought that went into the building of the reverse harem relationship. The characters each had their own depth and traumas to cope with.
This series was definitely worth the time. I will continue to follow this author.
It seems like a small thing, but it really helps me that it’s easy to check which pov the chapter I’m reading is written from. Many thanks to the author or editor who made that decision.
April 12, 2026
"Love is power and power is energy, which can neither be destroyed nor created without vulnerability and heart. In such, love shall never die."
The final conclusion to Institute Thirteen
and the author did not hold back. Well the cliffhanger ending on the last book that had us all throwing our readers we are briefly introduced to again catching us all up to speed.
And speed it was this book was fast paced with so many aspects of the story all developing with eage page turn resulting in a fitting end to a great series.
" Loyalty knows no bounds, and wherever I may land, I know I will never be alone again."
The final conclusion to Institute Thirteen
and the author did not hold back. Well the cliffhanger ending on the last book that had us all throwing our readers we are briefly introduced to again catching us all up to speed.
And speed it was this book was fast paced with so many aspects of the story all developing with eage page turn resulting in a fitting end to a great series.
" Loyalty knows no bounds, and wherever I may land, I know I will never be alone again."
April 14, 2026
Overall this was a 3 star series. I did enjoy most aspects of the books but they were just too long and 4 books was too many for what this series was. I said it before but I love Ocean and I hope we get more on her someday. The guys I really ended up liking too. Elodie well she was okay, she just annoyed me for reason. She just never used her brain and just made unnecessary decisions and ran away from everything. The last 30% of this I really liked. But I also still have so
Many questions? Like what is the purpose of the dove? How did Elodie end up where she did as a child? Just Walker in general? Idk
Many questions? Like what is the purpose of the dove? How did Elodie end up where she did as a child? Just Walker in general? Idk
Review of advance copy received from Author
Seriously obsessed and in love with this dark and delicious series. @KC Kean you did it again! Elodie’s character arc is amazing and I love her bestie relationship with Ocean more with every book. But her relationship with the guys has me wishing WhyChoose was in real life! Thorne is so dang 🔥😈, Kael’s redemption is perfect, while Rion’s cinnamon roll with a side of crazy 🤪 makes my heart melt for him. This book gives so many great characters their chance to shine. I cannot recommend this series enough- if supernatural dark fantasy is your thing.
April 16, 2026
This series has been absolutely amazing! This was the perfect conclusion! I have fallen in love with all these characters! Elodie learns something huge about herself and is unsure about it at first. Kael really steps up in this book and does a huge thing to help Elodie and the others. Throne and Rion are amazing as always and have some life changing things in this book. Ocean is such ab amazing character! So much happens and of course some surprises. I highly recommend this book and of course the whole series!
April 25, 2026
3.75 ☆ haha
Ok... so I have just finished this series and need to get my thoughts down before I burst 🤣
PROS:
◇ character growth 10/10
◇ plot twists - brill!
◇ side kick bestie👌🏻 wish we got more of her backstory though
◇ writing style 😎 👌🏻
◇ main plot , kept me guessing
CONS:
¤ plot holes! Some small, some frustrating as hell lol
¤ the ending- just all that build up then poof done 😬
¤ wish the fmc had shown more of her power as she was meant to be super powerful but barely tapped into her magic it felt
Ok... so I have just finished this series and need to get my thoughts down before I burst 🤣
PROS:
◇ character growth 10/10
◇ plot twists - brill!
◇ side kick bestie👌🏻 wish we got more of her backstory though
◇ writing style 😎 👌🏻
◇ main plot , kept me guessing
CONS:
¤ plot holes! Some small, some frustrating as hell lol
¤ the ending- just all that build up then poof done 😬
¤ wish the fmc had shown more of her power as she was meant to be super powerful but barely tapped into her magic it felt
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am such a fan of this series. Elodie is such an interesting character and I love the guys so much. Even the side characters make me want to know more about them. From the first book, there have been many twists and turns and you're never quite sure what surprise will be revealed next and this final book is no different. This book kept the momentum going and was a great conclusion to the series!
March 27, 2026
I’ve been looking forward to this book, and it did not disappoint. That said, I’m never disappointed with K.C. Kean’s books. I’m having a hard time finding the right words to express how I feel about it without giving anything away. I’ll just say that I loved all the characters, especially the relationship between Elodie and Ocean. There’s so much going on and so many new things to discover. It was an amazing read I was completely drawn in, and you’re going to love it.
March 27, 2026
I don't like to give anything away as I don't like spoilers myself. But I will say this KC you have smashed it again , I didn't want it to end this journey has been amazing I love Elodie an i always knew Thorne was my favourite but Rion and Kael come a very close second ! Ocean is a bestie everyone could do with the twists that came out in this book were the twists I wanted. Congratulations it was amazing didn't want it to end 🫶🫶
March 29, 2026
Amazing series from start to finish
I must say reading this description didn’t make me think I would have such a winner read. I was certainly intrigued by the description but didn’t expect the actual books’ content to be as wonderful as it was. I think the description doesn’t give this series justice. I was pleasantly surprised at every turn and each book just made me love the characters more. This is a good series from start to finish. Definite recommend.
I must say reading this description didn’t make me think I would have such a winner read. I was certainly intrigued by the description but didn’t expect the actual books’ content to be as wonderful as it was. I think the description doesn’t give this series justice. I was pleasantly surprised at every turn and each book just made me love the characters more. This is a good series from start to finish. Definite recommend.
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