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Grayne's Academy #1
A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts
In the start of a brand-new fantasy series, Genevieve Cogman, the author of the bestselling The Invisible Library, welcomes you to Graynes, a magical school for demon-summoning . . .
Philomena was happy with her life at Cambridge University – until her father’s mounting gambling debts forced her to leave the world of academia behind. So she can’t quite believe her luck when she is hired to be the new Latin teacher at Graynes, an all-girls school nestled in the remote Yorkshire Moors.
But just when Phil is getting used to the odd staff members, not to mention the frivolous schoolgirl pranks, things take a strange and unexpected her students are summoning demons in the cellar. Graynes, she discovers, is no ordinary school – it’s a training ground for the Queen’s elite force of demonologists.
Protecting England from nefarious forces certainly wasn’t on the job description. And as Phil is plunged into a world of dark arts, demon pacts and witches-in-training, she soon finds herself entangled in a plot that threatens to destroy the magical realm from the inside out . . .
Philomena was happy with her life at Cambridge University – until her father’s mounting gambling debts forced her to leave the world of academia behind. So she can’t quite believe her luck when she is hired to be the new Latin teacher at Graynes, an all-girls school nestled in the remote Yorkshire Moors.
But just when Phil is getting used to the odd staff members, not to mention the frivolous schoolgirl pranks, things take a strange and unexpected her students are summoning demons in the cellar. Graynes, she discovers, is no ordinary school – it’s a training ground for the Queen’s elite force of demonologists.
Protecting England from nefarious forces certainly wasn’t on the job description. And as Phil is plunged into a world of dark arts, demon pacts and witches-in-training, she soon finds herself entangled in a plot that threatens to destroy the magical realm from the inside out . . .
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 8, 2026
About the author
Genevieve Cogman
51 books4,652 followersGenevieve Cogman got started on Tolkien and Sherlock Holmes at an early age, and has never looked back. But on a perhaps more prosaic note, she has an MSC in Statistics with Medical Applications and has wielded this in an assortment of jobs: clinical coder, data analyst and classifications specialist. Although The Invisible Library is her debut novel, she has also previously worked as a freelance roleplaying game writer. Genevieve Cogman’s hobbies include patchwork, beading, knitting and gaming, and she lives in the north of England.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
October 8, 2026
Entertaining teacher POV story, pitched to me quite accurately as "St Trinians meets the legend of Faust".
Phil (short for Philomena) was happily settled in grad school as an eternal Classics student when the family money unexpectedly ran out and she had to find a job sharpish. Coming across a girls school in need of a Latin teacher and not too fussy about teaching qualifications seems almost too good to be true -- and it's true, there are some significant downsides. The school is in a beautiful but isolated part of the Yorkshire Moors. It has absolutely no mobile reception. School food is routinely grim. Where does one draw the line between student hijinks and homicidal activity? etc.
Phil is a marvellous combination of oblivious and competent, still assuming goodwill long after the rest us would have run away screaming. Her pragmatism and literal approach turns out to be exactly what's needed to handle the malevolent forces threatening the school, and also the beastly fourth years. The story is much more about her relationships with other adults than the children, too, which I appreciated.
Highly recommended to lovers of magic school stories, people who've taken an atypical route into teaching and found they loved it, and anyone looking for a little nuance in their demonology beyond "demons bad!" Am looking forward to book 2 (but book 1 has a satisfying close.)
Rating: 15/20
This review is based upon a complimentary advance review copy provided by the publisher at NetGalley.
Phil (short for Philomena) was happily settled in grad school as an eternal Classics student when the family money unexpectedly ran out and she had to find a job sharpish. Coming across a girls school in need of a Latin teacher and not too fussy about teaching qualifications seems almost too good to be true -- and it's true, there are some significant downsides. The school is in a beautiful but isolated part of the Yorkshire Moors. It has absolutely no mobile reception. School food is routinely grim. Where does one draw the line between student hijinks and homicidal activity? etc.
Phil is a marvellous combination of oblivious and competent, still assuming goodwill long after the rest us would have run away screaming. Her pragmatism and literal approach turns out to be exactly what's needed to handle the malevolent forces threatening the school, and also the beastly fourth years. The story is much more about her relationships with other adults than the children, too, which I appreciated.
Highly recommended to lovers of magic school stories, people who've taken an atypical route into teaching and found they loved it, and anyone looking for a little nuance in their demonology beyond "demons bad!" Am looking forward to book 2 (but book 1 has a satisfying close.)
Rating: 15/20
This review is based upon a complimentary advance review copy provided by the publisher at NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
In A Scholar’s Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts, we meet Philomela, an ex Cambridge scholar who desperately needs a job after her father gambled away the family money. She ends up teaching Latin at Grayne’s Academy, an all girl’s boarding school, despite not having any teaching qualifications. Turns out the school isn’t quite as it seems…
I had a fun time reading this book! It has just the type of humour I love in a fantasy - very witty and doesn’t take itself too seriously. The setting felt very British as the school is in the remote Yorkshire Moors with only a small town nearby. The book was also set in 2003 and so it was nostalgic for me personally as I would have been the same age as the students at that time. Phil was a great character to follow. She has a very can-do attitude. Coming in and teaching unruly children Latin with no experience. Summoning a demon despite never having done it before. She can do it all! I loved how nothing really seemed to faze her and she was very accepting of everything she discovered. It highlighted just how desperate for money she was! Her relationship with her demon familiar Alastor was my favourite part of the book and their conversations often had me laughing out loud.
The side characters were all well written and made an impact. The other teachers all had distinct personalities and I particularly liked Jane, the maths/computer teacher who clearly has some secret past - I hope we explore that in later books. The Head’s personality was perfect for setting the tone of the book and clearly settles for no nonsense! The students were stars of the book in their own right and also a reminder that teenage girls are vicious even before you give them tasers and heavy weaponry!
I did find the book a little bit slow to start, especially if you have read the blurb, as you are waiting for nearly half of the book before the plot really starts to kick in. However this meant the world building and tone were clearly set by the time the action really starts and I imagine shouldn’t be an issue in the sequel which I will definitely be picking up when it is released.
Highly recommend for fans of light hearted, witty fantasy that is more on the cosy end with sides of violence and peril who also enjoy funny characters and tongue-in-cheek writing.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tor for access to this ARC.
I had a fun time reading this book! It has just the type of humour I love in a fantasy - very witty and doesn’t take itself too seriously. The setting felt very British as the school is in the remote Yorkshire Moors with only a small town nearby. The book was also set in 2003 and so it was nostalgic for me personally as I would have been the same age as the students at that time. Phil was a great character to follow. She has a very can-do attitude. Coming in and teaching unruly children Latin with no experience. Summoning a demon despite never having done it before. She can do it all! I loved how nothing really seemed to faze her and she was very accepting of everything she discovered. It highlighted just how desperate for money she was! Her relationship with her demon familiar Alastor was my favourite part of the book and their conversations often had me laughing out loud.
The side characters were all well written and made an impact. The other teachers all had distinct personalities and I particularly liked Jane, the maths/computer teacher who clearly has some secret past - I hope we explore that in later books. The Head’s personality was perfect for setting the tone of the book and clearly settles for no nonsense! The students were stars of the book in their own right and also a reminder that teenage girls are vicious even before you give them tasers and heavy weaponry!
I did find the book a little bit slow to start, especially if you have read the blurb, as you are waiting for nearly half of the book before the plot really starts to kick in. However this meant the world building and tone were clearly set by the time the action really starts and I imagine shouldn’t be an issue in the sequel which I will definitely be picking up when it is released.
Highly recommend for fans of light hearted, witty fantasy that is more on the cosy end with sides of violence and peril who also enjoy funny characters and tongue-in-cheek writing.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tor for access to this ARC.
September 29, 2026
St Trinians meets A Deadly Education from the teachers perspective.
October 8, 2026
This book caused me two very late nights because I genuinely couldn’t put it down! It’s a lighthearted and reasonably low stakes urban fantasy.
The mystery element lasts for the perfect amount of time imo, then the pace really picks up. Although the ending was satisfying, I actually think the book could’ve been 100 pages longer. I’m VERY hopeful we get a sequel pronto.
Thanks netgalley for the ARC!
The mystery element lasts for the perfect amount of time imo, then the pace really picks up. Although the ending was satisfying, I actually think the book could’ve been 100 pages longer. I’m VERY hopeful we get a sequel pronto.
Thanks netgalley for the ARC!
October 8, 2026
4 of 5 stars
https://lynns-books.com/2026/10/08/re...
My Five Word TL:DR Review: Great Start to New Series
I have enjoyed a few of Genevieve Cogman’s books and so was excited to pick up a copy of A Scholar’s Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts (ASGtDaODA) and it doesn’t disappoint. I did wonder, going into this one if it would have more of a YA feel to it being set in a school and all and of course there are the students but the focus is predominantly on Philomena (or Phil as she is affectionately known).
Phil finds herself in the difficult position of having to leave her scholarly life at Cambridge behind and find a paying job – the horror! Her father has disgraced the family, losing most of their money and desperate times call for desperate measures. So, Phil has applied for a job at Graynes, a school for girls set on the Yorkshire Moors, and although she has no teaching qualifications, she is offered a position, primarily teaching Latin but also it seems odd jobbing at just about everything else involved in school life.
What then follows is a rude awakening as Phil begins to understand that there is more to Graynes than a slightly down at heel gothic building, a bunch of incredibly unruly and highly energetic school girls and a lot of tight lipped colleagues that are either keeping secrets or are blissfully in the dark.
If you’ve heard of the St Trinians then the comparison is inevitable but this book inserts a boost of fantasy into the shenanigans and the fantasy isn’t just tacked on for good measure. This is well thought out, there’s plenty going on at the school and the scope for more adventures is very promising.
As part of the plot we have the inevitable baddie, seeking vengeance and plotting against everyone with the eventual mad dash capers in the concluding chapters as everything comes together for the grande finale.
I don’t want to say too much about the plot. I had fun reading this. It’s light hearted and enjoyable. The characters are easy to engage with. Phil was quite cool headed when put in a fix and although predominantly its all a little tongue in cheek the stakes do take a darker turn towards the end – and yet you simply know that everything will work out. I wouldn’t call this cosy but at the same time its the kind of story that has over the top villains and beleaguered teachers, surrounded by outlandish school children just waiting to be given a free reign.
The school is stuck out on the moors, the local villagers give the place a wide berth, taxis won’t enter the grounds and the education inspectors pay frequent visits to try and catch the school in any wrongdoing and presumably have an excuse to close it down.
On top of this there are mysterious crossroads, strange wards protecting the school, an extensive and labyrinthe like basement with a fascinating array of books and, of course, as the title would suggest, demons. Although here they seem more like familiars.
The rest of the cast are easy to imagine if a little bit cliched. The schoolgirls are wonderfully OTT and there’s an overall whimsical feel to the peace that puts you more in mind of simpler times. That’s probably exacerbated by the fact that mobile phones are made completely useless at the school due to some sort of blockers and also added to by the charm of the local village.
I’ll leave it there because part of the fun of this was letting the story develop bit by bit. I wouldn’t particularly say this is a fast paced read but I liked the tone and I wasn’t in a particular hurry, more just enjoying seeing things develop.
I really look forward to seeing what comes next in this series, like I mentioned above there’s certainly a lot of scope here.
I received a copy through Netgalley, courtesy of the publisher, for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.
https://lynns-books.com/2026/10/08/re...
My Five Word TL:DR Review: Great Start to New Series
I have enjoyed a few of Genevieve Cogman’s books and so was excited to pick up a copy of A Scholar’s Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts (ASGtDaODA) and it doesn’t disappoint. I did wonder, going into this one if it would have more of a YA feel to it being set in a school and all and of course there are the students but the focus is predominantly on Philomena (or Phil as she is affectionately known).
Phil finds herself in the difficult position of having to leave her scholarly life at Cambridge behind and find a paying job – the horror! Her father has disgraced the family, losing most of their money and desperate times call for desperate measures. So, Phil has applied for a job at Graynes, a school for girls set on the Yorkshire Moors, and although she has no teaching qualifications, she is offered a position, primarily teaching Latin but also it seems odd jobbing at just about everything else involved in school life.
What then follows is a rude awakening as Phil begins to understand that there is more to Graynes than a slightly down at heel gothic building, a bunch of incredibly unruly and highly energetic school girls and a lot of tight lipped colleagues that are either keeping secrets or are blissfully in the dark.
If you’ve heard of the St Trinians then the comparison is inevitable but this book inserts a boost of fantasy into the shenanigans and the fantasy isn’t just tacked on for good measure. This is well thought out, there’s plenty going on at the school and the scope for more adventures is very promising.
As part of the plot we have the inevitable baddie, seeking vengeance and plotting against everyone with the eventual mad dash capers in the concluding chapters as everything comes together for the grande finale.
I don’t want to say too much about the plot. I had fun reading this. It’s light hearted and enjoyable. The characters are easy to engage with. Phil was quite cool headed when put in a fix and although predominantly its all a little tongue in cheek the stakes do take a darker turn towards the end – and yet you simply know that everything will work out. I wouldn’t call this cosy but at the same time its the kind of story that has over the top villains and beleaguered teachers, surrounded by outlandish school children just waiting to be given a free reign.
The school is stuck out on the moors, the local villagers give the place a wide berth, taxis won’t enter the grounds and the education inspectors pay frequent visits to try and catch the school in any wrongdoing and presumably have an excuse to close it down.
On top of this there are mysterious crossroads, strange wards protecting the school, an extensive and labyrinthe like basement with a fascinating array of books and, of course, as the title would suggest, demons. Although here they seem more like familiars.
The rest of the cast are easy to imagine if a little bit cliched. The schoolgirls are wonderfully OTT and there’s an overall whimsical feel to the peace that puts you more in mind of simpler times. That’s probably exacerbated by the fact that mobile phones are made completely useless at the school due to some sort of blockers and also added to by the charm of the local village.
I’ll leave it there because part of the fun of this was letting the story develop bit by bit. I wouldn’t particularly say this is a fast paced read but I liked the tone and I wasn’t in a particular hurry, more just enjoying seeing things develop.
I really look forward to seeing what comes next in this series, like I mentioned above there’s certainly a lot of scope here.
I received a copy through Netgalley, courtesy of the publisher, for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.
October 17, 2026
Another great from GC! Already really looking forward to the next instalment…whenever that’s going to be.
Loved the PoV from Phil and her genuine naivety/innocence about the school and what she was getting into. Taking a job at an all girls boarding school on the Yorkshire Moors, teaching Latin, without a teaching qualification. Not asking the pertinent questions or listening to warnings at being offered said job and her gradual uncovering of what’s actually going on at Graines.
It felt like St Trinians meets the Craft meets elements of Harry Potter as told by the teacher and not the students.
As usual with GCs writing, you can absolutely visualise the world with her descriptive styling and feel like you know the characters with how she personalises them. We’ve definitely got more to unearth with how / why some of them ‘know’ and why some don’t, and the backstory of the Headmistress…with some of the references of King Arthur and the artwork and tapestries etc and the knowledge she has about the school’s history - was she there for it all?
And the girls - the teachers have the patience of saints, and really do deserve improved meals with everything they deal with day in day out with the pranks, the lack of care or interest in lessons and study, the evening jaunts and secret pets (Wiggles).
Some of the monologue from Phil genuinely had me LOLing - the suggested description of the type of students for consideration in the school’s brochure truly tickled me. Her conversations with Alastro - I mean Jupiter and how she handles students and colleagues. Loved it.
Have we truly seen the end of Anne? I don’t think so.
And Alastro - I mean Jupiter - looking forward to learning more about this Duke from H*ll!
Bring on Book 2!
Loved the PoV from Phil and her genuine naivety/innocence about the school and what she was getting into. Taking a job at an all girls boarding school on the Yorkshire Moors, teaching Latin, without a teaching qualification. Not asking the pertinent questions or listening to warnings at being offered said job and her gradual uncovering of what’s actually going on at Graines.
It felt like St Trinians meets the Craft meets elements of Harry Potter as told by the teacher and not the students.
As usual with GCs writing, you can absolutely visualise the world with her descriptive styling and feel like you know the characters with how she personalises them. We’ve definitely got more to unearth with how / why some of them ‘know’ and why some don’t, and the backstory of the Headmistress…with some of the references of King Arthur and the artwork and tapestries etc and the knowledge she has about the school’s history - was she there for it all?
And the girls - the teachers have the patience of saints, and really do deserve improved meals with everything they deal with day in day out with the pranks, the lack of care or interest in lessons and study, the evening jaunts and secret pets (Wiggles).
Some of the monologue from Phil genuinely had me LOLing - the suggested description of the type of students for consideration in the school’s brochure truly tickled me. Her conversations with Alastro - I mean Jupiter and how she handles students and colleagues. Loved it.
Have we truly seen the end of Anne? I don’t think so.
And Alastro - I mean Jupiter - looking forward to learning more about this Duke from H*ll!
Bring on Book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
That was such a good book!
I snorted out loud several times, the tone and pacing was perfect. As a fan of Genevieve Cogman's Invisible Library series, I wasn't disappointed at all.
Phil is the perfect character to follow for this new series, as while she first enters the school because of her personal circumstances, it becomes clear soon enough that she completely belongs to Graynes. The other characters are interesting too, a lot of potential for growth and exposed secrets. I also loved the, hum, "pet" situation!
I can't wait to see how the story is going to unfold in the next volumes. The author kept open a few questions to keep us waiting for the next book, but subtly enough that the end still felt satisfying.
I want to thank Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for sending me an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I snorted out loud several times, the tone and pacing was perfect. As a fan of Genevieve Cogman's Invisible Library series, I wasn't disappointed at all.
Phil is the perfect character to follow for this new series, as while she first enters the school because of her personal circumstances, it becomes clear soon enough that she completely belongs to Graynes. The other characters are interesting too, a lot of potential for growth and exposed secrets. I also loved the, hum, "pet" situation!
I can't wait to see how the story is going to unfold in the next volumes. The author kept open a few questions to keep us waiting for the next book, but subtly enough that the end still felt satisfying.
I want to thank Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for sending me an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is so subversive and so much fun! Absolutely compulsive reading!
October 18, 2026
Funny and quirky book about demons, school kids, teachers and the sort. Enjoyed it
October 28, 2026
This very much felt like the first book in a series but it was fun to listen to.
November 8, 2026
📚😈 Part dark academia, part demon-fuelled chaos, and entirely impossible to put down — this book had me cackling from start to finish. 😈📚
4.5 ⭐ Review — The Scholar's Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts by Genevieve Cogman
The St Trinian's girl in me was absolutely SCREAMING while reading this book. 😭✨
I went into The Scholar's Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts expecting to enjoy it, but I was completely unprepared for just how much I would fall in love with it. This was one of those books that sneaks up on you, steals your heart, and then leaves you wondering how you're supposed to wait for the next instalment.
Firstly, a huge thank you to @torbooksuk for sending me an advanced copy because I genuinely think I have discovered a brand-new favourite series. The Scholar's Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts is available now, and if you're looking for your next cosy fantasy obsession, I highly recommend adding it to your shelves. 💜📖
The premise is fantastic, but it's the execution that truly shines. The combination of dark academia, demonic shenanigans, Yorkshire Moors atmosphere, mystery, and tongue-in-cheek humour completely won me over.
And the humour? Absolutely elite. 😂
There were multiple moments where I genuinely laughed out loud. Not cute little smiles. Not a polite chuckle. Full-blown snorts and inappropriate laughter. Genevieve Cogman has mastered that clever, witty humour that catches you completely off guard.
The setting feels wonderfully atmospheric without becoming overwhelming, and the balance between the darker elements and the cosy feel is handled beautifully. It manages to be magical, mysterious, and comforting all at once.
And can we please talk about Alastor?
Because Alastor is FABULOUS. ✨😌
No further explanation required.
If you're looking for:
📚 Dark academia 😈 Demons and magical chaos 🍂 Atmospheric Yorkshire Moors vibes ✨ Quirky characters 😂 Sharp humour 🖤 St Trinian's energy
...then you need this book on your shelves immediately.
I devoured it in just two sittings and am already desperate to know what comes next.
4.5 ⭐ Review — The Scholar's Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts by Genevieve Cogman
The St Trinian's girl in me was absolutely SCREAMING while reading this book. 😭✨
I went into The Scholar's Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts expecting to enjoy it, but I was completely unprepared for just how much I would fall in love with it. This was one of those books that sneaks up on you, steals your heart, and then leaves you wondering how you're supposed to wait for the next instalment.
Firstly, a huge thank you to @torbooksuk for sending me an advanced copy because I genuinely think I have discovered a brand-new favourite series. The Scholar's Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts is available now, and if you're looking for your next cosy fantasy obsession, I highly recommend adding it to your shelves. 💜📖
The premise is fantastic, but it's the execution that truly shines. The combination of dark academia, demonic shenanigans, Yorkshire Moors atmosphere, mystery, and tongue-in-cheek humour completely won me over.
And the humour? Absolutely elite. 😂
There were multiple moments where I genuinely laughed out loud. Not cute little smiles. Not a polite chuckle. Full-blown snorts and inappropriate laughter. Genevieve Cogman has mastered that clever, witty humour that catches you completely off guard.
The setting feels wonderfully atmospheric without becoming overwhelming, and the balance between the darker elements and the cosy feel is handled beautifully. It manages to be magical, mysterious, and comforting all at once.
And can we please talk about Alastor?
Because Alastor is FABULOUS. ✨😌
No further explanation required.
If you're looking for:
📚 Dark academia 😈 Demons and magical chaos 🍂 Atmospheric Yorkshire Moors vibes ✨ Quirky characters 😂 Sharp humour 🖤 St Trinian's energy
...then you need this book on your shelves immediately.
I devoured it in just two sittings and am already desperate to know what comes next.
October 11, 2026
This was my first book by this author and it definitely won't be my last!
When I read the blurb for this one, I knew I was sold immediately. Cosy academia set in a boarding school in a fantasy setting. This book was described me as "St. Trinian's meets the Legend of Faust", and honestly I can't think if a better way to sum it up. As someone who ABSOLUTELY loved the St. Trinian movies when I was younger, this book captured that same wonderfully chaotic energy, with mischievous students, school antics, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, all wrapped up in a story involving demons, dark magic, and magical intrigue.
Philomena was such a fantastic protagonist. Forced to leave her beloved academic life at Cambridge due to her father's gambling debts, she takes a position as a Latin teacher at a remote girls school of Graynes, only to discover that the student's aren't just studying Latin. They are summoning demons in the cellar!! The story bneing told from the teachers POV was one of my favourite aspects of the book as it felt fresh and different from the usual magical school stories. It gave a unique perspective on the chaos unfolding around her.
I really enjoyed the relationship building between Phil (Philomena) and the other characters in the book. The staff in the story were wonderfully eccentric, the world building was brilliant and I loved the more nuanced approach to demonology rather than the usual "demons = bad" narrative.
Funny, clever and fully of heart, A scholars Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts is perfect for fans of magical school stories, dark academia and anyone who enjoys a healthy dose of chaos alongside their fantasy. If you're like me and you're in your cosy era, you cannot pass on this one. You will have the best time.
Thank you so much Chloe from Pan Macmillan for gifting me a copy of this book and having me on tour for this one.
When I read the blurb for this one, I knew I was sold immediately. Cosy academia set in a boarding school in a fantasy setting. This book was described me as "St. Trinian's meets the Legend of Faust", and honestly I can't think if a better way to sum it up. As someone who ABSOLUTELY loved the St. Trinian movies when I was younger, this book captured that same wonderfully chaotic energy, with mischievous students, school antics, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, all wrapped up in a story involving demons, dark magic, and magical intrigue.
Philomena was such a fantastic protagonist. Forced to leave her beloved academic life at Cambridge due to her father's gambling debts, she takes a position as a Latin teacher at a remote girls school of Graynes, only to discover that the student's aren't just studying Latin. They are summoning demons in the cellar!! The story bneing told from the teachers POV was one of my favourite aspects of the book as it felt fresh and different from the usual magical school stories. It gave a unique perspective on the chaos unfolding around her.
I really enjoyed the relationship building between Phil (Philomena) and the other characters in the book. The staff in the story were wonderfully eccentric, the world building was brilliant and I loved the more nuanced approach to demonology rather than the usual "demons = bad" narrative.
Funny, clever and fully of heart, A scholars Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts is perfect for fans of magical school stories, dark academia and anyone who enjoys a healthy dose of chaos alongside their fantasy. If you're like me and you're in your cosy era, you cannot pass on this one. You will have the best time.
Thank you so much Chloe from Pan Macmillan for gifting me a copy of this book and having me on tour for this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This story has the kind of charm that sneaks up on you — a blend of academic humour, gothic oddity, and magical mischief that makes Graynes School feel instantly alive. Philomela’s shift from Cambridge academia to the damp Yorkshire Moors is both funny and quietly poignant, and the book captures that sense of being uprooted with a wonderfully light touch.
Graynes itself is a delight. The school is eccentric in all the best ways: staff who seem to be hiding more than lesson plans, students whose pranks border on supernatural, and a cellar that absolutely should not contain a summoning circle… yet does. The moment Phil realises her new workplace is actually a training ground for demonologists, the story settles into a playful, slightly chaotic rhythm that’s incredibly enjoyable.
What stands out is how effortlessly the book balances whimsy with genuine stakes. Talking familiars, custard creams, and Latin lessons give the world a cosy, offbeat texture, but underneath is a darker thread — a threat that reaches far beyond the school walls. Watching Phil navigate this strange new life, armed mostly with her Classics background and stubborn practicality, is both endearing and surprisingly tense.
The mystery unfolds with a satisfying pace, pulling Phil deeper into a plot that threatens England itself. The worldbuilding feels rich without ever becoming heavy, and the tone stays delightfully sharp throughout.
Atmospheric, clever, and full of personality, A Scholar’s Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts is a charming start to a magical series with plenty of promise. Perfect for readers who enjoy magical academia with a mischievous edge.
With thanks to Genevieve Cogman, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Graynes itself is a delight. The school is eccentric in all the best ways: staff who seem to be hiding more than lesson plans, students whose pranks border on supernatural, and a cellar that absolutely should not contain a summoning circle… yet does. The moment Phil realises her new workplace is actually a training ground for demonologists, the story settles into a playful, slightly chaotic rhythm that’s incredibly enjoyable.
What stands out is how effortlessly the book balances whimsy with genuine stakes. Talking familiars, custard creams, and Latin lessons give the world a cosy, offbeat texture, but underneath is a darker thread — a threat that reaches far beyond the school walls. Watching Phil navigate this strange new life, armed mostly with her Classics background and stubborn practicality, is both endearing and surprisingly tense.
The mystery unfolds with a satisfying pace, pulling Phil deeper into a plot that threatens England itself. The worldbuilding feels rich without ever becoming heavy, and the tone stays delightfully sharp throughout.
Atmospheric, clever, and full of personality, A Scholar’s Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts is a charming start to a magical series with plenty of promise. Perfect for readers who enjoy magical academia with a mischievous edge.
With thanks to Genevieve Cogman, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I thoroughly enjoyed this fantasy reimagining of a classic, classic comedy farce that is.
When I was younger I used to watch the St Trinian’s movies, comedies, set in a girls private school where the girls and their headteacher were more than scallywags, and through major conniving always came out top,
Well this is St Trinians on steroids with Demons added too.
Unsuspecting new teacher Philomenia, though strongly warned against it, takes up a teaching post at Graynes, in the Classics (what else do you do with a Degree and PhD in that subject - especially when your family wealth has been gambled away by your father, and your job at university has disappeared).
The job at Graynes turns out to be made all the more difficult because the school girls are wilfully wild but very clever, and very, very destructive, their propensity for blowing things up reaches spectacular new levels.
Then there’s the local School Inspector’s (Ofsted on steroids or definitely something mind warping, maybe not human in invention) who have plans to shut the school down.
Philomena has her work cut out for her. But then she knows the Classics inside out. And dealing with Demons she will find out is all about the Classics, so maybe she’s the right person after all. The headteacher certainly thinks so and is willing to employ her even though she doesn’t have a teaching degree and hasn’t actually taught in school before. Learn on the job!
Well, she’s going to learn a lot of new things in this job.
And that doesn’t start to describe the cellars and vaults, where things go bang in the night and demons are maybe not to be let loose before or after bedtime lights out.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
When I was younger I used to watch the St Trinian’s movies, comedies, set in a girls private school where the girls and their headteacher were more than scallywags, and through major conniving always came out top,
Well this is St Trinians on steroids with Demons added too.
Unsuspecting new teacher Philomenia, though strongly warned against it, takes up a teaching post at Graynes, in the Classics (what else do you do with a Degree and PhD in that subject - especially when your family wealth has been gambled away by your father, and your job at university has disappeared).
The job at Graynes turns out to be made all the more difficult because the school girls are wilfully wild but very clever, and very, very destructive, their propensity for blowing things up reaches spectacular new levels.
Then there’s the local School Inspector’s (Ofsted on steroids or definitely something mind warping, maybe not human in invention) who have plans to shut the school down.
Philomena has her work cut out for her. But then she knows the Classics inside out. And dealing with Demons she will find out is all about the Classics, so maybe she’s the right person after all. The headteacher certainly thinks so and is willing to employ her even though she doesn’t have a teaching degree and hasn’t actually taught in school before. Learn on the job!
Well, she’s going to learn a lot of new things in this job.
And that doesn’t start to describe the cellars and vaults, where things go bang in the night and demons are maybe not to be let loose before or after bedtime lights out.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine, freely given.
October 12, 2026
Thank you to Tor and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
When I saw that the author of The Invisible Library had a new book out, I knew that I had to read it right away! A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts by Genevieve Cogman is the first book in a new trilogy that is being called a mash-up between St. Trinian's and Faust. The story revolves around Philomena, called Phil, who has just gotten a new position as a Latin teacher at an all girl's school that seems like a reform girl for girls with violent or homicidal tendencies. Phil doesn't have any teaching certifications or qualifications, so why would the head of the school choose to hire her? Is there a more nefarious reason why the girls at the school have to learn Latin?
Overall, A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts is an amazing start to a brand-new trilogy that will appeal to fans of Girls Aloud and Netflix's How to Get to Heaven from Belfast. One highlight of this book are the laugh-out-loud funny parts. The author really added a lot of humor into this book that isn't present in her previous works. Another highlight of this book is the witty banter between Phil and Alastor. Although there isn't any romance in this book (although I hope that will change in the next books), I still enjoyed the development of their relationship. One final highlight of this book is the premise, which is so fun and original. Imagine being a teacher at a school with demon summoning, and you don't know whether you're more scared of the students than of the actual demons. If you're intrigued by the synopsis above, or if you're looking for the perfect Halloween read, I highly recommend that you check out this book, which is available now!
When I saw that the author of The Invisible Library had a new book out, I knew that I had to read it right away! A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts by Genevieve Cogman is the first book in a new trilogy that is being called a mash-up between St. Trinian's and Faust. The story revolves around Philomena, called Phil, who has just gotten a new position as a Latin teacher at an all girl's school that seems like a reform girl for girls with violent or homicidal tendencies. Phil doesn't have any teaching certifications or qualifications, so why would the head of the school choose to hire her? Is there a more nefarious reason why the girls at the school have to learn Latin?
Overall, A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts is an amazing start to a brand-new trilogy that will appeal to fans of Girls Aloud and Netflix's How to Get to Heaven from Belfast. One highlight of this book are the laugh-out-loud funny parts. The author really added a lot of humor into this book that isn't present in her previous works. Another highlight of this book is the witty banter between Phil and Alastor. Although there isn't any romance in this book (although I hope that will change in the next books), I still enjoyed the development of their relationship. One final highlight of this book is the premise, which is so fun and original. Imagine being a teacher at a school with demon summoning, and you don't know whether you're more scared of the students than of the actual demons. If you're intrigued by the synopsis above, or if you're looking for the perfect Halloween read, I highly recommend that you check out this book, which is available now!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 stars rounded up.
Thank you to Genevieve Cogman and Pan Macmillan for an eARC of this book on NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Some minor spoilers for the first half below.
Favourite tropes:
- Demonic familiar
- St Trinian’s but with a direct communication channel into hell
- Buried secrets waiting to be uncovered
Philomela (Phil) Fen has been pursuing academia for years but a tragic turn of events in her personal life lead her to take a job at a mysterious school despite having precisely zero teaching qualifications. The young women of Graynes School can only be described as crime-obsessed savages, and put Phil through her paces, leaving her questioning her life choices. As secrets of the school are revealed and Phil discovers the school’s inhabitants have a soft spot for communicating with Hell, Phil is drawn into the study of demonology, whether she wants to or not. Between studying for a teaching qualification, managing the pupils and learning about the art of demonology, Phil has plenty to be getting on with even without the mysterious person attempting to bring down the school.
With a cast of characters you can’t help but love, a cat-shaped demon and a Latin-obsessed main character (Phil), this book is a really enjoyable read. It has a dark academia atmosphere with the moody Yorkshire moors providing the perfect backdrop. It’s engaging, easy to get lost in for an hour or two, and will keep you entertained. As the first in a planned trilogy, I’m excited to see what happens next at Graynes!
Overall, a charming book which I ended up adoring - I hope you do too!
Thank you to Genevieve Cogman and Pan Macmillan for an eARC of this book on NetGalley. All opinions are my own. Some minor spoilers for the first half below.
Favourite tropes:
- Demonic familiar
- St Trinian’s but with a direct communication channel into hell
- Buried secrets waiting to be uncovered
Philomela (Phil) Fen has been pursuing academia for years but a tragic turn of events in her personal life lead her to take a job at a mysterious school despite having precisely zero teaching qualifications. The young women of Graynes School can only be described as crime-obsessed savages, and put Phil through her paces, leaving her questioning her life choices. As secrets of the school are revealed and Phil discovers the school’s inhabitants have a soft spot for communicating with Hell, Phil is drawn into the study of demonology, whether she wants to or not. Between studying for a teaching qualification, managing the pupils and learning about the art of demonology, Phil has plenty to be getting on with even without the mysterious person attempting to bring down the school.
With a cast of characters you can’t help but love, a cat-shaped demon and a Latin-obsessed main character (Phil), this book is a really enjoyable read. It has a dark academia atmosphere with the moody Yorkshire moors providing the perfect backdrop. It’s engaging, easy to get lost in for an hour or two, and will keep you entertained. As the first in a planned trilogy, I’m excited to see what happens next at Graynes!
Overall, a charming book which I ended up adoring - I hope you do too!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am a huge fan of Genevieve Cogman's previous series so a new book is an auto-read for me - but the cherry on top was the setting, I also adore school stories and couldn't wait to dive into this gothic take.
Unfortunate family circumstances means Philomela needs a job, and as a classicist what better than to spread her love of Latin and Greek and the classical world to a new generation? Only problem, no qualifications and no means to get them. So, she can't believe her luck when she is offered a role at an exclusive girls' school with the opportunity to train on the job. Okay, the school is in the middle of the Yorkshire moors and in a phone dead spot, okay the locals refuse to interact with the school or anyone connected, okay she really can't find much about Graynes online, okay one of the other teachers warned her off the role, and okay, the girls do seem unusually feral, but beggars cannot be choosers and so she accepts.
I hadn't read any blurb going in and so had no idea what to expect and the first third gives no real clues, we the reader discover the secrets lurking at the heart ogfGraynes along with Phil, but knowing Cogman (magic library, vampire French revolutionary retelling), I knew it would be fantastical, dark and fun and I wasn't disappointed. Already looking forward to the next. Recommended.
Unfortunate family circumstances means Philomela needs a job, and as a classicist what better than to spread her love of Latin and Greek and the classical world to a new generation? Only problem, no qualifications and no means to get them. So, she can't believe her luck when she is offered a role at an exclusive girls' school with the opportunity to train on the job. Okay, the school is in the middle of the Yorkshire moors and in a phone dead spot, okay the locals refuse to interact with the school or anyone connected, okay she really can't find much about Graynes online, okay one of the other teachers warned her off the role, and okay, the girls do seem unusually feral, but beggars cannot be choosers and so she accepts.
I hadn't read any blurb going in and so had no idea what to expect and the first third gives no real clues, we the reader discover the secrets lurking at the heart ogfGraynes along with Phil, but knowing Cogman (magic library, vampire French revolutionary retelling), I knew it would be fantastical, dark and fun and I wasn't disappointed. Already looking forward to the next. Recommended.
October 8, 2026
I read an eARC of this book on NetGalley so thank you to the author and the publisher.
This was an amusing, school-set book. We follow a woman called Phil, who due to changed circumstances has to take a job as a Latin teacher at a girl’s school in Yorkshire. She’s not fully qualified, a fact people keep reminding her of. It’s a strange school (I think you can tell from the title of the book that there’s going to be something supernatural here). There’s a real joy of the boarding school experience here. The students are chaotic, they are not all totally studious, some are quite destructive. They keep the teachers on their toes.
I found this an enjoyable read. It did take quite a while to get to the supernatural content in the book, though it is alluded to. I wouldn’t have minded a bit more demonology. However it’s a minor point.
The main character Phil is pretty reckless. She often makes quite questionable choices. However this is necessary for the plot as it gets her into entertaining situations. Some of her motivations being driven by how much she’d like a cat which I found quite amusing. The writing is often quite funny. There were a few moments that made me smile. The book does have a bit of darker stuff but it’s lighthearted over all.
Read this for a fun, entertaining read set in a boarding school, with reckless characters, plenty of chaos, and loveable pets.
This was an amusing, school-set book. We follow a woman called Phil, who due to changed circumstances has to take a job as a Latin teacher at a girl’s school in Yorkshire. She’s not fully qualified, a fact people keep reminding her of. It’s a strange school (I think you can tell from the title of the book that there’s going to be something supernatural here). There’s a real joy of the boarding school experience here. The students are chaotic, they are not all totally studious, some are quite destructive. They keep the teachers on their toes.
I found this an enjoyable read. It did take quite a while to get to the supernatural content in the book, though it is alluded to. I wouldn’t have minded a bit more demonology. However it’s a minor point.
The main character Phil is pretty reckless. She often makes quite questionable choices. However this is necessary for the plot as it gets her into entertaining situations. Some of her motivations being driven by how much she’d like a cat which I found quite amusing. The writing is often quite funny. There were a few moments that made me smile. The book does have a bit of darker stuff but it’s lighthearted over all.
Read this for a fun, entertaining read set in a boarding school, with reckless characters, plenty of chaos, and loveable pets.
September 6, 2026
Review from netgalley arc provided in exchange for an honest review.
Whimsical, fun, and cosy. This charming book is a cosy fantasy/academia book about a new teacher coming to a school that’s a little out of the ordinary. As Phil settles into the school she realises it’s not simply some anachronistic private school but instead is full of little discussed secrets. This was fun and whilst weird very charming. I loved the protagonist and her companion, I enjoyed the character building of the teachers and the girls. It’s a little between genres perhaps, in that if this had been a bit more from the girls perspective given the youthful demeanour of the main protagonist I might have placed it slightly more in the NA/YA category. I wanted more Yorkshire mythology given the setting (interestingly, on first read, I’d assumed the author was American but placing this in the U.K.). I hope we might get that in subsequent books. Really enjoyed this
charming adventure, and with a little more character development (which I hope will follow in subsequent books) or a little more convincing peril (though appreciate this would then be less cosy!) I would have given this a 5. If you like Lucy Jane Wood I think you’ll like this.
Whimsical, fun, and cosy. This charming book is a cosy fantasy/academia book about a new teacher coming to a school that’s a little out of the ordinary. As Phil settles into the school she realises it’s not simply some anachronistic private school but instead is full of little discussed secrets. This was fun and whilst weird very charming. I loved the protagonist and her companion, I enjoyed the character building of the teachers and the girls. It’s a little between genres perhaps, in that if this had been a bit more from the girls perspective given the youthful demeanour of the main protagonist I might have placed it slightly more in the NA/YA category. I wanted more Yorkshire mythology given the setting (interestingly, on first read, I’d assumed the author was American but placing this in the U.K.). I hope we might get that in subsequent books. Really enjoyed this
charming adventure, and with a little more character development (which I hope will follow in subsequent books) or a little more convincing peril (though appreciate this would then be less cosy!) I would have given this a 5. If you like Lucy Jane Wood I think you’ll like this.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I thoroughly enjoyed this as a very different flavour to things I usually read - there's no romance, and it's probably more of a YA novel, but with slightly darker themes. A loose summary would be St Trinian's with demons, and it absolutely fit the bill. St Trinian's was a firm favourite of mine growing up, and this book is similarly so!
It was fun, it was chaotic, it didn't take itself too seriously, and yet I didn't want to put it down in order to know what happened next!! It was a total whirlwind, and knowing it is a trilogy makes me so excited for future instalments in the series. The girls and teachers at the boarding school had excellent personality and were so engaging - and you got to know enough of them without feeling too overwhelmed by too many names. There's still enough intrigue on thing that aren't known to make you want to come back, but it's also well wrapped up and finished as a first book.
My only slight gripe is that the blurb told me too much about what would happen in the plot - probably necessary, but when some of that doesn't happen until half way through the book, it was a little frustrating.
But otherwise, very much looking forward to more from this series!
It was fun, it was chaotic, it didn't take itself too seriously, and yet I didn't want to put it down in order to know what happened next!! It was a total whirlwind, and knowing it is a trilogy makes me so excited for future instalments in the series. The girls and teachers at the boarding school had excellent personality and were so engaging - and you got to know enough of them without feeling too overwhelmed by too many names. There's still enough intrigue on thing that aren't known to make you want to come back, but it's also well wrapped up and finished as a first book.
My only slight gripe is that the blurb told me too much about what would happen in the plot - probably necessary, but when some of that doesn't happen until half way through the book, it was a little frustrating.
But otherwise, very much looking forward to more from this series!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Faced with her family’s financial doom, Philomela Fen is forced to consider a life worlds apart from her comfortable situation as an independent scholar. Securing a job as a Latin teacher at Grayne’s Academy, what she lacks in teaching qualifications she more than makes up for in passion for her subject. But Graynes Academy is a school reminiscent of St Trinian’s; one where mettle and quick thinking are required to keep both a pack of girls in check and the Department for Education at bay.
This engaging and amusing book is a fabulous start to Genevieve Cogman’s new trilogy. Philomela is a delightful character. Seemingly unphased by the unexpected, she shows a degree of capability that no teaching could qualification could prepare her for. The exploration of demonology and the dark arts adds a fun twist to a plot about a school that is already entirely unconventional in its expectations and outlook. Cogman’s writing is tight and well-structured, standing in stark contrast to the chaotic environment that she so vividly brings to life. I loved this novel and can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you to Tor and NetGalley for sharing an eARC with me in exchange for an honest review.
This engaging and amusing book is a fabulous start to Genevieve Cogman’s new trilogy. Philomela is a delightful character. Seemingly unphased by the unexpected, she shows a degree of capability that no teaching could qualification could prepare her for. The exploration of demonology and the dark arts adds a fun twist to a plot about a school that is already entirely unconventional in its expectations and outlook. Cogman’s writing is tight and well-structured, standing in stark contrast to the chaotic environment that she so vividly brings to life. I loved this novel and can’t wait for the next book.
Thank you to Tor and NetGalley for sharing an eARC with me in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Unfortunately, I ended up DNFing this one at around 21%.
I requested this eARC because the premise immediately caught my attention, and it sounded like something I would absolutely devour. There were definitely things that intrigued me, especially the school setting and the hints of a slightly chaotic, St. Trinian’s-esque atmosphere. However, I think that comparison ultimately worked against the book for me, as I found myself comparing the students and their antics to St. Trinian’s rather than experiencing the story entirely on its own terms.
I also found the pacing a little too slow for my personal taste. By the time I reached 20%, I was still waiting for the story to really get going, and unfortunately I hadn’t connected strongly enough with the characters to make me want to push through.
That said, I don’t think this is a bad book at all. I can absolutely see it appealing to readers who enjoy lighter fantasy, particularly fantasy set within our own world, and I think the premise has plenty of potential.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan, for the opportunity to review this book. All thought and opinions are my own.
I requested this eARC because the premise immediately caught my attention, and it sounded like something I would absolutely devour. There were definitely things that intrigued me, especially the school setting and the hints of a slightly chaotic, St. Trinian’s-esque atmosphere. However, I think that comparison ultimately worked against the book for me, as I found myself comparing the students and their antics to St. Trinian’s rather than experiencing the story entirely on its own terms.
I also found the pacing a little too slow for my personal taste. By the time I reached 20%, I was still waiting for the story to really get going, and unfortunately I hadn’t connected strongly enough with the characters to make me want to push through.
That said, I don’t think this is a bad book at all. I can absolutely see it appealing to readers who enjoy lighter fantasy, particularly fantasy set within our own world, and I think the premise has plenty of potential.
Thank you to NetGalley and Pan Macmillan, for the opportunity to review this book. All thought and opinions are my own.
October 13, 2026
I really enjoyed A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts!
It was such a fun read and had some great humour that had me laughing at a couple of scenes.
The description of the book being St Trinians meets the legend of faust i found to be pretty accurate!
I also loved that the book was from the teacher's perspective, as while I've read quite a few books set in a school, very few of those were from a the pov of a teacher. So it was definitely an awesome change of pace!
I really liked Phil a lot as a character and i thought she was so much fun! I also really liked both Jane and Alastor!
The students were absolutely crazy and terrifying at times and I loved them so much! I loved every scene that the girls were in!
The book also had a satisfying ending and most things were wrapped up. There wasn't a cliffhanger, but it did leave some loose threads that i'm really excited to see develop in the sequels!
All in all this was a highly entertaining read that I definitely recommend checking out!
It was such a fun read and had some great humour that had me laughing at a couple of scenes.
The description of the book being St Trinians meets the legend of faust i found to be pretty accurate!
I also loved that the book was from the teacher's perspective, as while I've read quite a few books set in a school, very few of those were from a the pov of a teacher. So it was definitely an awesome change of pace!
I really liked Phil a lot as a character and i thought she was so much fun! I also really liked both Jane and Alastor!
The students were absolutely crazy and terrifying at times and I loved them so much! I loved every scene that the girls were in!
The book also had a satisfying ending and most things were wrapped up. There wasn't a cliffhanger, but it did leave some loose threads that i'm really excited to see develop in the sequels!
All in all this was a highly entertaining read that I definitely recommend checking out!
November 5, 2026
Thank you to the publisher for this ARC!
A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts is a rollercoaster of a read - it's wacky, sarcastic, and full of unexpected twists. What starts as a dry and practical observation of applying for a Latin teaching position at a private girl's school slowly transforms into a action filled (and often bloodthirsty) romp. Expect explosions, demons, and high speed chases!
The beginning took a bit to really get into, but once Phil is settled in the school, it picks up quickly. I especially liked how she develops as a teacher and how no nonsense she is despite all the weirdness that goes on around her.
Of course, the giant demonic talking cat is also a huge plus! Once Alistair was introduced, the story got even better - the pace amped up, the snark increased, and the danger spiked.
I do think the motivations behind a lot of the action was a bit too loose, and we are left with a lot of questions (like who is Jane, who set up the summoning, and which staff members are in on the secret), but despite the gaps, I still had a good time.
A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts is a rollercoaster of a read - it's wacky, sarcastic, and full of unexpected twists. What starts as a dry and practical observation of applying for a Latin teaching position at a private girl's school slowly transforms into a action filled (and often bloodthirsty) romp. Expect explosions, demons, and high speed chases!
The beginning took a bit to really get into, but once Phil is settled in the school, it picks up quickly. I especially liked how she develops as a teacher and how no nonsense she is despite all the weirdness that goes on around her.
Of course, the giant demonic talking cat is also a huge plus! Once Alistair was introduced, the story got even better - the pace amped up, the snark increased, and the danger spiked.
I do think the motivations behind a lot of the action was a bit too loose, and we are left with a lot of questions (like who is Jane, who set up the summoning, and which staff members are in on the secret), but despite the gaps, I still had a good time.
August 3, 2026
Man was this book a whirlwind in the best way possible and I gratefully devoured every page. It got its hooks in and my few chapters of this book with my coffee in the mornings was my highlight of the day.
I really enjoyed getting to know Grayne’s, a boarding school of hidden depths and more besides. Phil, our MC, I quickly got behind and she was an easy character to root for. She accepts a Latin teaching post and me thinks she didn’t quite know what she was signing herself up for…! She meets everything in her stride though and I actually quickly became attached to this school of lovable (& dangerous) rogues.
I wasn’t too sure what sort of plot this book had in store and I was enraptured. Especially towards the end where I physically couldn’t read it fast enough.
So so so enjoyable and what a great read.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
I really enjoyed getting to know Grayne’s, a boarding school of hidden depths and more besides. Phil, our MC, I quickly got behind and she was an easy character to root for. She accepts a Latin teaching post and me thinks she didn’t quite know what she was signing herself up for…! She meets everything in her stride though and I actually quickly became attached to this school of lovable (& dangerous) rogues.
I wasn’t too sure what sort of plot this book had in store and I was enraptured. Especially towards the end where I physically couldn’t read it fast enough.
So so so enjoyable and what a great read.
Thank you to the author and publisher for this book on NetGalley in return for my honest thoughts and review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The urgency involving the settlement of matters related to her father's gambling habits forces a PhD student at Cambridge to trade in an enjoyable present and a bright future for the slog of life as a Latin teacher at a remote and peculiar school on the Yorkshire moors. But Philomela has no idea just how strange things really are at Graynes, which turns out to be a place dedicated to training future demonologists!
And since demonologists by the nature of their choice of subject are not likely to be the average boarding school students, Philomela soon has her hands full navigating her new surroundings and the inhabitants dwelling therein...
An original and entertaining story, this will appeal to most readers - especially those who enjoy fantastical and humorous elements in story telling.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
And since demonologists by the nature of their choice of subject are not likely to be the average boarding school students, Philomela soon has her hands full navigating her new surroundings and the inhabitants dwelling therein...
An original and entertaining story, this will appeal to most readers - especially those who enjoy fantastical and humorous elements in story telling.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I laughed out loud SO many times as I read this absolutely delightful romp of a book, set in a girls' boarding school in Yorkshire where the spiked gates are sensibly aimed at keeping the girls in (for their own safety as well as that of the wider world) rather than keeping most (comparatively hapless) intruders out - and the demons who get summoned along the way are far less of a menace than the (fabulously creative) students. Every casually dropped mention in act one gets fabulously well followed through in the dazzlingly clever climax, and I cannot wait for the next Grayne Girls adventure!
This is the blurb I just sent the publisher:
"A dazzlingly clever, laugh-out-loud delight. Watch out for Grayne girls, world! I only wish that I was one of them." - Stephanie Burgis, author of Wooing the Witch Queen
Definitely preorder it!
This is the blurb I just sent the publisher:
"A dazzlingly clever, laugh-out-loud delight. Watch out for Grayne girls, world! I only wish that I was one of them." - Stephanie Burgis, author of Wooing the Witch Queen
Definitely preorder it!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Scholars Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts by Genevieve Cogman
Rating: 2
The premise of A Scholar's Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts instantly hooked me—a witchy St. Trinian's? Yes, please. Unfortunately, while the concept was brilliant, the execution sadly lacked oomph.
I did genuinely enjoy our protagonist, Philomena ("Phil"). As a desperate Latin scholar turned equally desperate Latin teacher, her endearing naivety and witty observations provided the book's strongest moments.
However, the pacing was a major stumbling block. The plot felt painfully slow and meandering, which meant the side characters were never given the room to develop any true depth.
While I can absolutely see this quirky academy tale charming other readers, it ultimately missed the mark for me.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 2
The premise of A Scholar's Guide to Demonology and Other Dark Arts instantly hooked me—a witchy St. Trinian's? Yes, please. Unfortunately, while the concept was brilliant, the execution sadly lacked oomph.
I did genuinely enjoy our protagonist, Philomena ("Phil"). As a desperate Latin scholar turned equally desperate Latin teacher, her endearing naivety and witty observations provided the book's strongest moments.
However, the pacing was a major stumbling block. The plot felt painfully slow and meandering, which meant the side characters were never given the room to develop any true depth.
While I can absolutely see this quirky academy tale charming other readers, it ultimately missed the mark for me.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2026
Thank you Pan Macmillan and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for honest review.
As always I requested a book with reading a blurb and forgetting it in next second what means when I finally started reading A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts all I know it is about school and demons.
Where idea of the story was very interesting delivery was a bit lacking. First 60% of book were very slow and FMC was trully annoying with her naive approach to situation.
Not much of magic as well.
What I found interesting was last 40% of the story, where a lot was happening and also I liked the funny side of FMC.
Worth mentioning are students... A group of rebellious girls, with way too many bad ideas bulling all the teachers.
In my opinion 2nd book from this series could be better and definitely will read it.
As always I requested a book with reading a blurb and forgetting it in next second what means when I finally started reading A Scholar's Guide to Demonology & Other Dark Arts all I know it is about school and demons.
Where idea of the story was very interesting delivery was a bit lacking. First 60% of book were very slow and FMC was trully annoying with her naive approach to situation.
Not much of magic as well.
What I found interesting was last 40% of the story, where a lot was happening and also I liked the funny side of FMC.
Worth mentioning are students... A group of rebellious girls, with way too many bad ideas bulling all the teachers.
In my opinion 2nd book from this series could be better and definitely will read it.
September 17, 2026
✨4 stars✨
I thought this book was such a fun start to this trilogy, as it seemed like the perfect mix of the films St Trinian’s and Wild Child, the Malory Towers and St Clare’s book series by Enid Blyton combined with the fantastical element which was really intriguing!
I enjoyed Genevieve Colman’s writing and the humour felt incredibly British which I loved. This was also set in the Yorkshire moors so any book set in Northern England is a win for me 😂.
The overall vibe of the book was very atmospheric (with the moody moors) and I thought the plot was binge-worthy as I flew through this. There’s even a cat possessed by a demon so what’s not to like honestly.
Furthermore, I’m interested to see how the author is going to build on what happened and develop the story in the rest of the trilogy!
I received an ARC from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I thought this book was such a fun start to this trilogy, as it seemed like the perfect mix of the films St Trinian’s and Wild Child, the Malory Towers and St Clare’s book series by Enid Blyton combined with the fantastical element which was really intriguing!
I enjoyed Genevieve Colman’s writing and the humour felt incredibly British which I loved. This was also set in the Yorkshire moors so any book set in Northern England is a win for me 😂.
The overall vibe of the book was very atmospheric (with the moody moors) and I thought the plot was binge-worthy as I flew through this. There’s even a cat possessed by a demon so what’s not to like honestly.
Furthermore, I’m interested to see how the author is going to build on what happened and develop the story in the rest of the trilogy!
I received an ARC from the publishers via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
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