What do you think?
Rate this book
Apex Elite Academy #1
Apex Elite Academy: Year 1
Welcome to Apex Elite Academy, where elite supernaturals are sent to train to become agents for the Supernatural Council.
After months of begging, bribery, and a little emotional blackmail, I convinced my overprotective dad to let me take the Apex Elite Academy entrance exams. I passed, as expected, and I’m now a supernatural agent-in-training.
I was thrown into simulated missions with a prickly vampire determined to challenge me at every turn, a quiet dragon agent whose attention burned hotter than it should have, and a flirty chaos demon who hacked the academy’s surveillance just to watch me. Add in attending classes with a violent basilisk who had more uses for his venom than just torture, a clumsy phoenix whose harmless façade hid secret motivations, and a powerful warlock professor infatuated with my venom, and suddenly training was the least of my problems.
Especially when a mysterious illness spreads through the academy before sweeping through all supernatural territories in Kalista. Officially, it was labeled a rare sickness. Unofficially, intel revealed it was a human-made poison engineered to disorient and knock its victims unconscious, with aftereffects that mimicked the human flu. If the humans were responsible, they had a reason to target supernaturals, and none of those reasons were good.
Between risky finals, multiple growing relationships, political tensions, and a poison that clearly held ulterior motives, the first year at Apex Elite Academy might have killed me.
But honestly?
I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
After months of begging, bribery, and a little emotional blackmail, I convinced my overprotective dad to let me take the Apex Elite Academy entrance exams. I passed, as expected, and I’m now a supernatural agent-in-training.
I was thrown into simulated missions with a prickly vampire determined to challenge me at every turn, a quiet dragon agent whose attention burned hotter than it should have, and a flirty chaos demon who hacked the academy’s surveillance just to watch me. Add in attending classes with a violent basilisk who had more uses for his venom than just torture, a clumsy phoenix whose harmless façade hid secret motivations, and a powerful warlock professor infatuated with my venom, and suddenly training was the least of my problems.
Especially when a mysterious illness spreads through the academy before sweeping through all supernatural territories in Kalista. Officially, it was labeled a rare sickness. Unofficially, intel revealed it was a human-made poison engineered to disorient and knock its victims unconscious, with aftereffects that mimicked the human flu. If the humans were responsible, they had a reason to target supernaturals, and none of those reasons were good.
Between risky finals, multiple growing relationships, political tensions, and a poison that clearly held ulterior motives, the first year at Apex Elite Academy might have killed me.
But honestly?
I wouldn’t have had it any other way.
556 pages, Paperback
Published March 10, 2026
About the author
Lyra Winters
39 books890 followersLyra Winters is a twenty-something Kentucky woman who adores the book world. When she's not typing away on her laptop or daydreaming book ideas, Lyra is occupying her time taking care of her two spunky daughters and dreamy husband. She's addicted to Coca-Cola, 2000's rap music, and bubble baths. Her dream is to write love stories that touch the reader's hearts.
Visit her website at https://www.lyrawinters.com/
Visit her website at https://www.lyrawinters.com/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 314 reviews
March 19, 2026
I will be honest and say this one squeaked by with a 3 for me. spoilers ahead.
First off I think I have to make a new personal rule not to read a book if the only reviews are ARC. I need to not jump into a book head first on the release week because I truthfully cannot trust a single ARC reader at this point. 5 stars are useless if they come from an ARC.
Alright. I read fate hollow and I read most of the demon academy (did not read the last book for much the same reasons I did not really like this one), so I have actually read a ton of this authors work and usually she can suck me in with book one and keep me going until I'm frustrated by her ending. However, this one did not do that.
This book is incredibly repetitive and should in no way be close to 600 pages on Kindle unlimited. The conversations are the worst part of the repetition. Slater- says something sexy and funny Zucko agrees, rune rolls her eyes and Dimitri says they need to focus on their classes. Repeat for almost all of their conversations the entire damn book. No joke. bonus points if it's them walking to class between encounters with her ex boyfriend which happens CONSTANTLY. But I guess when you are only in your room or in class the plot has to move forward on your commute?
Then we have the simulations. Now I like getting more of what they are working on and seeing their applications it's something that makes sense for this setting of academia and made the read a little better. Having said that.....after the 5th in depth simulation I was over it. We get it. The whole book could've been edited down to around 300 pages and been a significantly better read and we still couldve had simulations.
Want to know why this makes me so mad? We finally get a good main character. Wren from fate hollow was a pick me tiny princess(see my review of wanting to scream about how many times they commented on her petiteness), Pandora was traumatized and repeatedly trauma dumped on everyone and in her own head for a whole series(see my review on that one, I definitely hated that repeated narrative) and we finally get a character that can stand on her own and has some fire and we lose it in the repeated scenes that show nothing about her. We also for almost 600 pages don't really get any real connections or real conversations which floored me. They aren't emotionally open or intimate at all and I think there are 4 sex scenes? 600 pages of an RH where we essentially know her mates from the first page and that's where we are?
Also, I get the mate bonds not clicking right away but again 600 pages and not a single bond snaps in place even though the "brother mate" thing gets repeated every other page? It just got too old. Every single person knows they are mates and we are still just waiting.
Also. if the Aura thing isn't beating you over the head REPEATEDLY and giving away that she is human you may be severely lacking in critical thinking skills. We have I think 5 direct instances of where she messes up her lore, and when she's first introduced we get the hint of her magic being different? It's not a cliffhanger if it's obvious from 3 conversations. Now granted we don't see her hurting Rune at the end. but... seriously.
Lastly, this book was so much more choppy than her other books which also messed with he enjoyment. We jump scene to scene and some just don't make sense in transition. example: she having this super weird intervention about her suicide tea and then boom girls bonding time. We go from "omg, please don't kill yourself" and everyone talking over her and blabbering about it, to "bye boys we are the only girls here and need time to hang". I get the need for the girl connections but the way it's written is odd. This also brings up this weird every single page discussion of poison. Did you know she likes poisons and that everyone in her life is worried about it? No? well don't worry you are told it on average every probably 5 pages. This could have been addressed one time., maybe 3 times but it was every single time she drank or used poison. It was constant and not needed. If she has a problem (which seems like she does and it is also super impulsive for a character that is supposed to be so good at what she does) then use the story line otherwise don't mention every five seconds.
Overall, I just don't know what to think about this book. I like the concept and the school aspect but every other part just was not there for me. It was confusing at times, the plot and relationships didn't really move forward, and I felt like I was reading an extra 300 pages because kindle pays more for larger books versus the author really having 600 pages that needed to be told. Which I have said repeatedly I get that! make money where you can especially in a shitty system but as a reader it's just making everything on Kindle unreadable.
First off I think I have to make a new personal rule not to read a book if the only reviews are ARC. I need to not jump into a book head first on the release week because I truthfully cannot trust a single ARC reader at this point. 5 stars are useless if they come from an ARC.
Alright. I read fate hollow and I read most of the demon academy (did not read the last book for much the same reasons I did not really like this one), so I have actually read a ton of this authors work and usually she can suck me in with book one and keep me going until I'm frustrated by her ending. However, this one did not do that.
This book is incredibly repetitive and should in no way be close to 600 pages on Kindle unlimited. The conversations are the worst part of the repetition. Slater- says something sexy and funny Zucko agrees, rune rolls her eyes and Dimitri says they need to focus on their classes. Repeat for almost all of their conversations the entire damn book. No joke. bonus points if it's them walking to class between encounters with her ex boyfriend which happens CONSTANTLY. But I guess when you are only in your room or in class the plot has to move forward on your commute?
Then we have the simulations. Now I like getting more of what they are working on and seeing their applications it's something that makes sense for this setting of academia and made the read a little better. Having said that.....after the 5th in depth simulation I was over it. We get it. The whole book could've been edited down to around 300 pages and been a significantly better read and we still couldve had simulations.
Want to know why this makes me so mad? We finally get a good main character. Wren from fate hollow was a pick me tiny princess(see my review of wanting to scream about how many times they commented on her petiteness), Pandora was traumatized and repeatedly trauma dumped on everyone and in her own head for a whole series(see my review on that one, I definitely hated that repeated narrative) and we finally get a character that can stand on her own and has some fire and we lose it in the repeated scenes that show nothing about her. We also for almost 600 pages don't really get any real connections or real conversations which floored me. They aren't emotionally open or intimate at all and I think there are 4 sex scenes? 600 pages of an RH where we essentially know her mates from the first page and that's where we are?
Also, I get the mate bonds not clicking right away but again 600 pages and not a single bond snaps in place even though the "brother mate" thing gets repeated every other page? It just got too old. Every single person knows they are mates and we are still just waiting.
Also. if the Aura thing isn't beating you over the head REPEATEDLY and giving away that she is human you may be severely lacking in critical thinking skills. We have I think 5 direct instances of where she messes up her lore, and when she's first introduced we get the hint of her magic being different? It's not a cliffhanger if it's obvious from 3 conversations. Now granted we don't see her hurting Rune at the end. but... seriously.
Lastly, this book was so much more choppy than her other books which also messed with he enjoyment. We jump scene to scene and some just don't make sense in transition. example: she having this super weird intervention about her suicide tea and then boom girls bonding time. We go from "omg, please don't kill yourself" and everyone talking over her and blabbering about it, to "bye boys we are the only girls here and need time to hang". I get the need for the girl connections but the way it's written is odd. This also brings up this weird every single page discussion of poison. Did you know she likes poisons and that everyone in her life is worried about it? No? well don't worry you are told it on average every probably 5 pages. This could have been addressed one time., maybe 3 times but it was every single time she drank or used poison. It was constant and not needed. If she has a problem (which seems like she does and it is also super impulsive for a character that is supposed to be so good at what she does) then use the story line otherwise don't mention every five seconds.
Overall, I just don't know what to think about this book. I like the concept and the school aspect but every other part just was not there for me. It was confusing at times, the plot and relationships didn't really move forward, and I felt like I was reading an extra 300 pages because kindle pays more for larger books versus the author really having 600 pages that needed to be told. Which I have said repeatedly I get that! make money where you can especially in a shitty system but as a reader it's just making everything on Kindle unreadable.
March 22, 2026
28% in on kindle. Love the idea but I just can't stand the dialogue. It feels childish.
March 7, 2026
I’m always addicted to Lyra Winters and her series. When I first heard of Rune in the last series I was so freaking intrigued. And now it’s here and I blew through this book so fast. Each individual series has its own thing but can I tell you we’re kind of getting back to that almost instant type of love from majority of the characters or obsession? I should say and I just love that. It’s what sucks me in. The different little trials in classes and simulations are so interesting and so well set up. And I’m so happy. This is a more of a rapid release because the ending… I need the next one right now. I know it’s not going to be a seriously super long wait. But I need to know!
June 23, 2026
4.2 stars.
May 29, 2026
This gave me whiplash initially.
I have mixed feelings about it. I’m not sure if this was supposed to be YA or something? Felt like it, minus the sex scenes.
It felt like the entrance exam was written by someone else, or at another point in time.
Certain things about many characters changed immediately once they got into the school.
As an example, Demitri smiles at her, flirts etc…then becomes grumpy central - except they only took the exam that morning and his personality has done a 180 in the space of hours, for absolutely no reason.
I HATED Slayter in the beginning. I get she was trying to go for a golden retriever vibe with him, but he came across as absolutely deranged and not in a hot psycho way.
More in a brainless twit way.
That whole “Venom baby” and Havoc Baby nearly made me put the book down.
Blegh.
Also, “brother mate” must die a quick death. Please, stop.
It felt very juvenile initially. The banter especially.
Luckily for the book and its readers, it does settle down as it progressed.
I’m not in love with Rune as a character- I’m hoping she gets better too.
She is the zenith of a Mary Sue character trope. Everything she does is the best, and she has no flaws, and she’s perfect.
Except she’s cocky as fuck and it irritated me to no end.
She also went on about Darian, but the abuse she mentions is not always the same? She mentioned him driving ice shards into her hands? But then never mentioned it again even when describing what he did to her? I don’t know it seemed like he was shitty, but for her to swing between this severe trauma response for what she described seems….like an overreaction ? Maybe there’s more to it. Who knows. Not me because it’s never clear.
Also other potential mate with a D word…Drecken or something? He seems mentally challenged. He’s never had an erection? Wut? In 168 years? Okaaaaaaay. *shuffles out of room slowly*
Overall, there is some spice, it’s ok, it’s not melting my panties that’s for sure but it’s fine.
The premise has potential. I’m hoping it continues to pick up, everywhere. If it continues like this I’ll stop reading but I am crossing fingers and going to head in to book 2.
I have mixed feelings about it. I’m not sure if this was supposed to be YA or something? Felt like it, minus the sex scenes.
It felt like the entrance exam was written by someone else, or at another point in time.
Certain things about many characters changed immediately once they got into the school.
As an example, Demitri smiles at her, flirts etc…then becomes grumpy central - except they only took the exam that morning and his personality has done a 180 in the space of hours, for absolutely no reason.
I HATED Slayter in the beginning. I get she was trying to go for a golden retriever vibe with him, but he came across as absolutely deranged and not in a hot psycho way.
More in a brainless twit way.
That whole “Venom baby” and Havoc Baby nearly made me put the book down.
Blegh.
Also, “brother mate” must die a quick death. Please, stop.
It felt very juvenile initially. The banter especially.
Luckily for the book and its readers, it does settle down as it progressed.
I’m not in love with Rune as a character- I’m hoping she gets better too.
She is the zenith of a Mary Sue character trope. Everything she does is the best, and she has no flaws, and she’s perfect.
Except she’s cocky as fuck and it irritated me to no end.
She also went on about Darian, but the abuse she mentions is not always the same? She mentioned him driving ice shards into her hands? But then never mentioned it again even when describing what he did to her? I don’t know it seemed like he was shitty, but for her to swing between this severe trauma response for what she described seems….like an overreaction ? Maybe there’s more to it. Who knows. Not me because it’s never clear.
Also other potential mate with a D word…Drecken or something? He seems mentally challenged. He’s never had an erection? Wut? In 168 years? Okaaaaaaay. *shuffles out of room slowly*
Overall, there is some spice, it’s ok, it’s not melting my panties that’s for sure but it’s fine.
The premise has potential. I’m hoping it continues to pick up, everywhere. If it continues like this I’ll stop reading but I am crossing fingers and going to head in to book 2.
May 8, 2026
Totally my trope for an academy book. 🥰 Slater, and Zuko were hillarious with their nickname for Rune. They were so sweet, and obsessed. Rune is a formidable character. I totally loved her poison side!
April 23, 2026
Best Academy Supernatural Book I’ve Read In A while!!!
**SPOILERS**
It’s Rune’s time!!
Rune is ready to enter Apex Academy as a first year to train to be an agent! She’s a basilisk that secretes venom…everywhere! Yup, she’s awesome! LOL!
She arrives at Apex Academy with her brother Tibby, and her parents (her dad is the headmaster). On her first day she is immediately drawn to several men, a few are fellow students, AND then there is the hot warlock professor (nom nom nom lol).
She passes her entrance exams with flying colors. And scores first place along with a broody vampire, Dmitri, that she’s clearly attracted to. It’s definitely a rival to romance between them. Slater the chaos demon is immediately obsessed with her, like beyond obsessed with her, snd Zuko a fellow basilisk flirts in a psychotic way with her upon their first meeting. They are placed in their first year dorms and teamed together, along with a few other cool characters. Koa is a phoenix who uh, dies uhmmmm a lot, lol, oh but resurrects. He’s a phoenix after all. Every test they face Rune aces. But there are sinister games afoot. Humans have made a poison that can hurt supernaturals, and it makes supernaturals sick. This is especially bad for Rune because she’s literally immune to all poisons and toxins, in fact, she eagerly eats poison and toxins daily…loving finding new toxins to try out. They’re usually like snacks to her, lol. It’s pretty funny. She mixes poisons into her tea, and sprinkles toxins and poison onto her food.
The back and forth rivalry romance goes on between Rune and Dmitri. And Slater and Zuko start dating her, knowing they are her fated mates but waiting impatiently for the mate bond to snap into place. Jasper is also interested in Rune, but it’s complicated because his cousin Damian is Rune’s crazy possessive ex boyfriend! Rune is also intrigued by Drecken, the warlock who is a poison expert and researcher. The human plot against supernaturals is heating up and there are human spies and plants in the academy. Will Rune and her guys uncover their sinister plot in time? Will she survive to year two? Well, obviously, she is, after all a sinister, pretty poison!!
**THOUGHTS/OPINIONS**
O.M.G! I’m soooooo glad I tried this book! I almost didn’t because frankly, the cover is kinda, uh, awful (just my opinion) but the blurb was seriously great, so I obviously picked it up. I am definitely a girl who will forgive bad cover art if the blurb is good, lol.
Rune is AWESOME! I loved her from the first moment she was introduced! She is unapologetically herself! She doesn’t shirk away from the fact that she’s toxic and totally deadly. She’s not afraid of her sexuality, and gives as good as she gets!! Her guys are all distinctive and have enough page time that even though there are a lot of guys in her harem you feel as if you really get to know them. Each one calls to a facet of her nature and particular personality!
I loved Zuko, he’s a basilisk torturer, yup, he’s the guy you go to if you want to extract info from someone or something…painfully!!! Slater is sometimes a bit too enthusiastic, however, his over the top obsession becomes humorous and definitely provides comedic relief and some great banter! Dmitri needs to get his shyte together, lol, BUT, he is definitely a great brooding vampire stereotype, AND Rune needs someone who isn’t head over heels obsessed with her from the second they lay eyes on her. Drecken is yummy. I mean…a hot poison professor? Sign me up for extra lessons, lol!!! Jasper is…compared to the others a bit dull, at first, but he comes into his own. Koa cracks me up because first, he has a pet tortoise that eats everything, lol, AND, heck, reading how he kills himself with a clock and then comes back to life…hilarious! He literally clumsily kills himself multiple times…it’s really amusing!!! These guys are awesome harem members, and the author shows us how to have an interesting, diverse harem while shoring up the characters and giving them all an expert amount of page time!!! And of course, at the center of the storm…Rune, who makes no bones about the fact that she’s the baddest b*tch out there!
Believe me when I tell you, if you enjoy supernatural academy romance with a high steam level, lots of action, and a kickass FMC, you will want to read this book!!! Rune will become your role model, lol! And the guys…whew…let’s just say I wanted to jump into the book and grab me some of them…okay, all of them! LOL!
**SPOILERS**
It’s Rune’s time!!
Rune is ready to enter Apex Academy as a first year to train to be an agent! She’s a basilisk that secretes venom…everywhere! Yup, she’s awesome! LOL!
She arrives at Apex Academy with her brother Tibby, and her parents (her dad is the headmaster). On her first day she is immediately drawn to several men, a few are fellow students, AND then there is the hot warlock professor (nom nom nom lol).
She passes her entrance exams with flying colors. And scores first place along with a broody vampire, Dmitri, that she’s clearly attracted to. It’s definitely a rival to romance between them. Slater the chaos demon is immediately obsessed with her, like beyond obsessed with her, snd Zuko a fellow basilisk flirts in a psychotic way with her upon their first meeting. They are placed in their first year dorms and teamed together, along with a few other cool characters. Koa is a phoenix who uh, dies uhmmmm a lot, lol, oh but resurrects. He’s a phoenix after all. Every test they face Rune aces. But there are sinister games afoot. Humans have made a poison that can hurt supernaturals, and it makes supernaturals sick. This is especially bad for Rune because she’s literally immune to all poisons and toxins, in fact, she eagerly eats poison and toxins daily…loving finding new toxins to try out. They’re usually like snacks to her, lol. It’s pretty funny. She mixes poisons into her tea, and sprinkles toxins and poison onto her food.
The back and forth rivalry romance goes on between Rune and Dmitri. And Slater and Zuko start dating her, knowing they are her fated mates but waiting impatiently for the mate bond to snap into place. Jasper is also interested in Rune, but it’s complicated because his cousin Damian is Rune’s crazy possessive ex boyfriend! Rune is also intrigued by Drecken, the warlock who is a poison expert and researcher. The human plot against supernaturals is heating up and there are human spies and plants in the academy. Will Rune and her guys uncover their sinister plot in time? Will she survive to year two? Well, obviously, she is, after all a sinister, pretty poison!!
**THOUGHTS/OPINIONS**
O.M.G! I’m soooooo glad I tried this book! I almost didn’t because frankly, the cover is kinda, uh, awful (just my opinion) but the blurb was seriously great, so I obviously picked it up. I am definitely a girl who will forgive bad cover art if the blurb is good, lol.
Rune is AWESOME! I loved her from the first moment she was introduced! She is unapologetically herself! She doesn’t shirk away from the fact that she’s toxic and totally deadly. She’s not afraid of her sexuality, and gives as good as she gets!! Her guys are all distinctive and have enough page time that even though there are a lot of guys in her harem you feel as if you really get to know them. Each one calls to a facet of her nature and particular personality!
I loved Zuko, he’s a basilisk torturer, yup, he’s the guy you go to if you want to extract info from someone or something…painfully!!! Slater is sometimes a bit too enthusiastic, however, his over the top obsession becomes humorous and definitely provides comedic relief and some great banter! Dmitri needs to get his shyte together, lol, BUT, he is definitely a great brooding vampire stereotype, AND Rune needs someone who isn’t head over heels obsessed with her from the second they lay eyes on her. Drecken is yummy. I mean…a hot poison professor? Sign me up for extra lessons, lol!!! Jasper is…compared to the others a bit dull, at first, but he comes into his own. Koa cracks me up because first, he has a pet tortoise that eats everything, lol, AND, heck, reading how he kills himself with a clock and then comes back to life…hilarious! He literally clumsily kills himself multiple times…it’s really amusing!!! These guys are awesome harem members, and the author shows us how to have an interesting, diverse harem while shoring up the characters and giving them all an expert amount of page time!!! And of course, at the center of the storm…Rune, who makes no bones about the fact that she’s the baddest b*tch out there!
Believe me when I tell you, if you enjoy supernatural academy romance with a high steam level, lots of action, and a kickass FMC, you will want to read this book!!! Rune will become your role model, lol! And the guys…whew…let’s just say I wanted to jump into the book and grab me some of them…okay, all of them! LOL!
March 16, 2026
This book was okay. I really enjoyed Rune and her poisonous ways. She's sassy, flirty, knows what she wants and takes no crap from anyone.
Her love interests are all okay and the chemistry was believable and translated well through reading.
However, my one flaw was that the plot was lacking for me. The summary explains that Rune gets accepted, and then later attends, Apex Elite Academy where she's training to be a supernatural agent. That's all fine and dandy but that's literally all that happens in the book, and it isn't until about 70-ish percent through, that you find out there's this mysterious sickness targeting supernaturals. However, you don't get much insight as to what it is, who it's targeting, where it's coming from, how the students are getting sick, etc. I'm assuming we'll find out in other books but that was literally the only other added plot point to the story.
There's a minor plot point with an abusive ex that's trying to win her back, but even that felt like it was added to the story just to add some dramatics somewhere.
They just go to class, study, go home, go back to class, do a little bit of magic that we're just supposed to understand instead of it being explained, go to a different class, rinse and repeat.
Overall, the book was too long and I felt like this could've used some editing and rewriting in regards to the plot. It just felt boring to read because nothing else was really going on outside of the classes, except for the relationship developments and the mysterious sickness.
The ending was a cliffhanger but one I easily saw coming so I was underwhelmed.
I won't be reading the rest of the series. I just don't think it would hold my attention.
Her love interests are all okay and the chemistry was believable and translated well through reading.
However, my one flaw was that the plot was lacking for me. The summary explains that Rune gets accepted, and then later attends, Apex Elite Academy where she's training to be a supernatural agent. That's all fine and dandy but that's literally all that happens in the book, and it isn't until about 70-ish percent through, that you find out there's this mysterious sickness targeting supernaturals. However, you don't get much insight as to what it is, who it's targeting, where it's coming from, how the students are getting sick, etc. I'm assuming we'll find out in other books but that was literally the only other added plot point to the story.
There's a minor plot point with an abusive ex that's trying to win her back, but even that felt like it was added to the story just to add some dramatics somewhere.
They just go to class, study, go home, go back to class, do a little bit of magic that we're just supposed to understand instead of it being explained, go to a different class, rinse and repeat.
Overall, the book was too long and I felt like this could've used some editing and rewriting in regards to the plot. It just felt boring to read because nothing else was really going on outside of the classes, except for the relationship developments and the mysterious sickness.
The ending was a cliffhanger but one I easily saw coming so I was underwhelmed.
I won't be reading the rest of the series. I just don't think it would hold my attention.
March 13, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 | 🌶️🌶️ | ARC Review
It's always nice to jump back into the world of Kalista, this book was a fun read. When I tell you that I laughed my way through this whole book I mean it. Something I think Lyra does well is making sure each of the guys in the why choose are different. Each of them had a very distinct voice and had their own set of issues and quarks that really helped to insure they didn't blend together.
Our FMC is probably one of my favorites that Lyra has written. While I love all the FMCs in her other series, Rune was just completely different. Not only is she strong but she is totally aware of how strong she is and wants to continue pushing herself. It was also lovely to see how confident she was just in her day to day life.
some other specific things I loved:
- the friendships we get to see developing
- some of the characters having loving parents
- the fast moving romantic relationship with Rune and some of her men
Now while I really did have so much fun with this one and Im extremely excited for the next book there were things that I didn't enjoy. I feel like the pacing of this story was off and while the first half was fine the second half of this story felt super rushed. Im hopeful that it was just due to all the time spent setting up the story and characters. I also do feel like all of the cute pet names were a bit overused. I did love that they all called her something different and she had a cute name for each of them too but I do think the use of them should have been spread out a little bit.
but overall I had a good time and I'm very excited to see where this story goes.
It's always nice to jump back into the world of Kalista, this book was a fun read. When I tell you that I laughed my way through this whole book I mean it. Something I think Lyra does well is making sure each of the guys in the why choose are different. Each of them had a very distinct voice and had their own set of issues and quarks that really helped to insure they didn't blend together.
Our FMC is probably one of my favorites that Lyra has written. While I love all the FMCs in her other series, Rune was just completely different. Not only is she strong but she is totally aware of how strong she is and wants to continue pushing herself. It was also lovely to see how confident she was just in her day to day life.
some other specific things I loved:
- the friendships we get to see developing
- some of the characters having loving parents
- the fast moving romantic relationship with Rune and some of her men
Now while I really did have so much fun with this one and Im extremely excited for the next book there were things that I didn't enjoy. I feel like the pacing of this story was off and while the first half was fine the second half of this story felt super rushed. Im hopeful that it was just due to all the time spent setting up the story and characters. I also do feel like all of the cute pet names were a bit overused. I did love that they all called her something different and she had a cute name for each of them too but I do think the use of them should have been spread out a little bit.
but overall I had a good time and I'm very excited to see where this story goes.
March 18, 2026
This book felt both slow… and rushed at the same time.
This one had a premise I usually enjoy — academy setting, paranormal elements, and a squad dynamic forming as the story progresses.
But the pacing felt a bit strange.
The beginning of the book moves very slowly, with a lot of detailed focus on the different tests and training the squad goes through. While the world building is interesting, the amount of time spent on those sections started to feel a bit excessive.
Then strangely, once the story gets moving, the timeline suddenly speeds up.
Terms two through four seem to fly by in comparison, which makes the pacing feel uneven overall. It’s almost like the book is both dragging and rushing at the same time.
Because of that, the story never quite settles into a rhythm.
There are interesting ideas here and the academy setup has potential, but something about the pacing just felt a little off for me.
🏫 paranormal academy setting
🧪 lots of training / testing scenes
👥 squad dynamics
🐢 very slow start
⚡ rushed later timeline
#ApexEliteAcademy #LyraWinters #AcademyRomance #ParanormalAcademy #KindleUnlimitedReads #ThreeStarRead
This one had a premise I usually enjoy — academy setting, paranormal elements, and a squad dynamic forming as the story progresses.
But the pacing felt a bit strange.
The beginning of the book moves very slowly, with a lot of detailed focus on the different tests and training the squad goes through. While the world building is interesting, the amount of time spent on those sections started to feel a bit excessive.
Then strangely, once the story gets moving, the timeline suddenly speeds up.
Terms two through four seem to fly by in comparison, which makes the pacing feel uneven overall. It’s almost like the book is both dragging and rushing at the same time.
Because of that, the story never quite settles into a rhythm.
There are interesting ideas here and the academy setup has potential, but something about the pacing just felt a little off for me.
🏫 paranormal academy setting
🧪 lots of training / testing scenes
👥 squad dynamics
🐢 very slow start
⚡ rushed later timeline
#ApexEliteAcademy #LyraWinters #AcademyRomance #ParanormalAcademy #KindleUnlimitedReads #ThreeStarRead
May 27, 2026
3.5-3.75 stars
I enjoyed the fmc right away bc I am sort of tired of the weak helpless bullied fmc trope. This fmc is deadly and has grown up w deadly parents and a strong brother. She is also kind but not a dummy.
Idk. Maybe too perfect but I’m sure weaknesses will be discovered to knock her down a peg or two.
The plot and story sucked me in. Hoping I can maintain my interest for four books.
RH (no MM)
Elite agent training academy-mid 20’s for some but some are way older too.
Mysterious human made poison killing supes.
FmC is daughter of some badass people
Various MMC’s-honestly too many imho but 😆🤷🏻♀️
Basilisks. Chaos demon. Warlock who is 160 yo. Phoenix. Dragon. Vampire.
Book one of four. Four is due end of month.
I enjoyed the fmc right away bc I am sort of tired of the weak helpless bullied fmc trope. This fmc is deadly and has grown up w deadly parents and a strong brother. She is also kind but not a dummy.
Idk. Maybe too perfect but I’m sure weaknesses will be discovered to knock her down a peg or two.
The plot and story sucked me in. Hoping I can maintain my interest for four books.
RH (no MM)
Elite agent training academy-mid 20’s for some but some are way older too.
Mysterious human made poison killing supes.
FmC is daughter of some badass people
Various MMC’s-honestly too many imho but 😆🤷🏻♀️
Basilisks. Chaos demon. Warlock who is 160 yo. Phoenix. Dragon. Vampire.
Book one of four. Four is due end of month.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2026
I don’t know if I have the words to review this without spoilers…I got an ARC of Apex Academy Y1 and I devoured it but I still don’t know how to explain how much I love it!
At this point I’ve read a lot of Lyra Winters books and I can honestly say that Rune might just be my favorite FMC of hers!
I love the guys (especially Slater 🥰) I’m so excited to see what comes next for them!!
If you haven’t read any of her books I highly recommend them!!
At this point I’ve read a lot of Lyra Winters books and I can honestly say that Rune might just be my favorite FMC of hers!
I love the guys (especially Slater 🥰) I’m so excited to see what comes next for them!!
If you haven’t read any of her books I highly recommend them!!
March 13, 2026
Apex Academy, 1
So disappointing. I loved Fate Hollow and Demon Reform Academy. I actually pre ordered this book. But what the heck happened with this one? Most of all I really dislike Rune, the heroine. She's a basilisk, which is naturally creepy, but her personality was arrogant and narcissistic. She's oh so special and every boy she meets wants her and she wants them back. Mom and Dads run the school and brother Tibby is another star. Her wanna be mate Slater is obnoxious and the others aren't much better. The dialogue is juvenile and the plot doesn't exist. The entire Academy curriculum is morbid and viciously unnecessary. What does an agent actually do? Why? I must be honest, I only made it to page 172 before I jumped to the cliffhanger. Along the way they rip out a student's heart because he groped Rune's butt, granted disgusting behavior, but his heart?!? So sorry this one not for me.
So disappointing. I loved Fate Hollow and Demon Reform Academy. I actually pre ordered this book. But what the heck happened with this one? Most of all I really dislike Rune, the heroine. She's a basilisk, which is naturally creepy, but her personality was arrogant and narcissistic. She's oh so special and every boy she meets wants her and she wants them back. Mom and Dads run the school and brother Tibby is another star. Her wanna be mate Slater is obnoxious and the others aren't much better. The dialogue is juvenile and the plot doesn't exist. The entire Academy curriculum is morbid and viciously unnecessary. What does an agent actually do? Why? I must be honest, I only made it to page 172 before I jumped to the cliffhanger. Along the way they rip out a student's heart because he groped Rune's butt, granted disgusting behavior, but his heart?!? So sorry this one not for me.
March 5, 2026
SLATER AND ZUKO ARE MY FAVOURITE DUO🤍
I am utterly obsessed with this series already and I’ve only had the pleasure of reading Term 1. Only thing which will probably make me seem impatient is I wished at least one mate bond snapped into place. Didn’t affect how I feel about the book though and as I said I’m obsessed. Well done, Lyra.🤍
I am utterly obsessed with this series already and I’ve only had the pleasure of reading Term 1. Only thing which will probably make me seem impatient is I wished at least one mate bond snapped into place. Didn’t affect how I feel about the book though and as I said I’m obsessed. Well done, Lyra.🤍
June 12, 2026
I tried but I just cannot keep reading. DNF page 25.
The writing isn't good. Honestly I can tolerate lot of bad writing in my indie/ku books but this one crossed the line for me. Maybe with more rounds of editing? But right now it is bad enough that i don't want to give this author another try.
The first chapter was supposed to hook me in but it left me so confused that I just dont care to untangle what this book is talking about. I could get over the fact that it is so obvious this book is a sequel series in a shared world so I am definitely missing backstory in the world. But we got this weird information dumping chapter and what was info dumped honestly seemed both irrelevant and scattered. And yet at the same time we also got nothing. I've got names to characters but nothing to really describe them so i can visualize them in the scene. Got a lot of nothing on the world so I cannot picture the setting. I feel like i am doing this awkward dance reading the words and I am trying to guess which ones might be important and which are just plain old filler/info dumping.
Show me things. Don't just tell me things.
The writing isn't good. Honestly I can tolerate lot of bad writing in my indie/ku books but this one crossed the line for me. Maybe with more rounds of editing? But right now it is bad enough that i don't want to give this author another try.
The first chapter was supposed to hook me in but it left me so confused that I just dont care to untangle what this book is talking about. I could get over the fact that it is so obvious this book is a sequel series in a shared world so I am definitely missing backstory in the world. But we got this weird information dumping chapter and what was info dumped honestly seemed both irrelevant and scattered. And yet at the same time we also got nothing. I've got names to characters but nothing to really describe them so i can visualize them in the scene. Got a lot of nothing on the world so I cannot picture the setting. I feel like i am doing this awkward dance reading the words and I am trying to guess which ones might be important and which are just plain old filler/info dumping.
Show me things. Don't just tell me things.
March 16, 2026
Holy cow this was fantastic
Ok I absolutely loved this book! I can't wait to read more of this series and am so grateful right now that it's a rapid release. I'm platonically in love with Rune and have heart eyes for Jesper.
Ok I absolutely loved this book! I can't wait to read more of this series and am so grateful right now that it's a rapid release. I'm platonically in love with Rune and have heart eyes for Jesper.
Read
March 17, 2026🟢 This is a reverse harem 🟢
June 16, 2026
DNF. RH. Not sure if this is me or the book, but it feels like every other dialogue in interrupted with monologue and i just can’t.
April 27, 2026
loved this book! Definitely a must-read if you like why choose romatasy with an academy setting. I read this book in one sitting - I literally couldn't stop reading! The writing style is really addictive. I'm so excited to read book 2!
March 15, 2026
I'm giving this a 4 based on enjoyment, but the story telling would be a 3. There were a couple main reasons that I felt this book deserved a slightly lower rating. while the author did a great job expounding on the end of term tests, there was no day to day. it was like "second term really flew by, the last three months had been insane ... now it was test time" The reader missed out on so much dialogue and world building because of this. Also, it was a too instant lovey. I am not in any way opposed to instant love in books, but this read differently. it's hard to explain, but it felt like the characters were love bombing her instead of having it be genuine.
ok ... now for the positive. This book was packed with adventure. The main characters powers had a unique twist and the characters were just a fun time.
ok ... now for the positive. This book was packed with adventure. The main characters powers had a unique twist and the characters were just a fun time.
May 18, 2026
DNF 35%
Had potential, but the dialogue was pretty bad. Cutting my losses after reading reviews saying it gets no better and is very repetitive
Had potential, but the dialogue was pretty bad. Cutting my losses after reading reviews saying it gets no better and is very repetitive
June 20, 2026
I’m gonna try my best to articulate how this book is different than the other two series in this world.
So for context, if you’re new to this world DO NOT READ THIS SERIES 1ST. READ FHA, THEN DRA, THEN THIS SERIES
FHA: Wrens books. For a recap on that. She’s also the “last” of her kind. Arctic Fox. Wren essentially grew up in the world where the people shunned her because of the alpha she lived under. She goes to a school FHA and meets all seven of her mates, even though she knew one of them prior. They fight humans and other threats. Ends in an HEA.
DRA: Pandoras books. Pandora is a demon. She grew up essentially being tortured by her egg donor. I say essentially, but I mean literally. I was trying to be polite. Anyways, her egg donor takes it a step too far one day and tries to off Pandora. Pandora, thinking she was a shadow demon her whole life and was a defective one at that because her powers could never work actually unleashes her power and devours her mother soul. She’s a Soul Eater like dear old, Dad whose name is Death. Figuratively and literally kind of. She has five mates that she meets at DRA. Three lightly bully her and spend the next three books after book one making it up to her. Her stories about fighting a dark magic cult. They also ended in HEA.
Which brings me to this series. AEA: Rune. Rune is the daughter of one of the supernatural councilwoman. She’s a basilisk. But she’s rare kind of. No other basilisk can do what she can. So it kind of makes her an enigma amongst her people.
I don’t even know how to begin to describe the guys to you. They’re each extremely unique. But I will try.
Dimitri. He’s your typical stoic vampire. He’s very standoffish and competitive.
Koa. I would say he’s your typical Phoenix, but he’s really not. He’s very shy, sweet and also offs himself in ridiculously stupid ways.
Slater. If you read Pandora story, then you met his brother Bram. Slater is literally a chaos demon. He literally sows chaos everywhere he goes. He is absolutely adorable, playful, and energetic.
Zuko. He’s a basilisk like her. Very very flirty. Him and Slater are like besties.
Drecken. If you read the previous two series, this isn’t the first time we’re meeting this man. Although I do think one of my favorite moments of him will always be crawling across the SC’s table to get the relic in Pandora’s books. It was absolutely hilarious. He’s 166-year-old warlock who has never been with anybody and doesn’t understand that he cannot replicate the feeling that he gives her because one cannot replicate butterflies or feelings. He’s adorable though.
And lastly. Jesper. Dragon. Who’s also the cousin of her POS ex. But don’t worry he’s nothing like his POS cousin. He actually punches him in the face. Jesper we have also met in Pandora series. And if you’ve read that, yes April is still a problem. He is absolutely adorable though and even made her noodles.
I really am not great at descriptions, but comparing this to the other two series it’s very very different. It’s amazing. Don’t get me wrong. I absolutely love everything this author writes. She will forever be a purchase for me. No matter if I like the premise of the book or not. Like she’s just an automatic buy.
Wren was such like a sweet and naïve character who was just growing into herself, but knew about the world around her. Pandora was the same, except she was learning everything because she never had any interaction with anybody besides nebula and her POS egg donor. Rune is very different from them because she dives into danger head first without thinking. And because of her special power, she consumes poison like it’s candy cause to her it is. This is very heavy on tactical strategies and battle plans, and things like that. Think of this more as if you watch true crime or cop shows kind of like that but supernatural squad.
The best way I can think of describing this is if you’ve ever watched the show Legacies that’s about Klaus Michaelson’s daughter Hope. And how they had the super squad. That’s basically what they are. They’re like the supernatural FBI. I really don’t know how to describe it.
But in all honesty, I think this is gonna be the most immersive one we get as far as hands-on if that makes sense? It’s very different but it’s no less than her other two series. I’m actually excited to see where this goes.
Although I will say woman, I’m very offended by this cliffhanger I’m literally staring at the last word wondering what the hell?
Seriously though if you have not read this author return, she’s amazing and she’s currently working on the next series in this world
Also, one more thing before I continue just a thought. I’m calling this now. Velstra is definitely evil. Aura is definitely human. That rings, she keeps twisting and how she acts shady and kind of curls into a ball and doesn’t do anything when it comes to them having to do things in class makes me think she has a glamour and that she’s spying on them. Also, with the way the book ends, Rune said she smelt an overwhelming scent of flowers. Aura smell smells like an overwhelming center of flowers and no one can pinpoint the scent which is weird. I mean Rune definitely smell. Smells singularly like midnight. Orchid to everybody. So I find it extremely weird that Auras scent cannot be pinpointed. Also, if there’s any spelling or miss useful word, I’m using speech to text. So sorry about that. But back to my theory, the two of them were talking in the beginning of the book and Rune said something along the lines of that was suspicious and she didn’t like that.
Being me, I definitely love true crime, and I love solving mysteries. I’ve literally color-coded my sections based off normal highlights which are in pink, and then my blue highlights, which are the facts. I’m just calling it that these two are gonna be evil.
Oh yeah, anyways I’m about to dive into book 2. Cannot wait to see how this goes. Thank you yet again for creating a masterpiece.
So for context, if you’re new to this world DO NOT READ THIS SERIES 1ST. READ FHA, THEN DRA, THEN THIS SERIES
FHA: Wrens books. For a recap on that. She’s also the “last” of her kind. Arctic Fox. Wren essentially grew up in the world where the people shunned her because of the alpha she lived under. She goes to a school FHA and meets all seven of her mates, even though she knew one of them prior. They fight humans and other threats. Ends in an HEA.
DRA: Pandoras books. Pandora is a demon. She grew up essentially being tortured by her egg donor. I say essentially, but I mean literally. I was trying to be polite. Anyways, her egg donor takes it a step too far one day and tries to off Pandora. Pandora, thinking she was a shadow demon her whole life and was a defective one at that because her powers could never work actually unleashes her power and devours her mother soul. She’s a Soul Eater like dear old, Dad whose name is Death. Figuratively and literally kind of. She has five mates that she meets at DRA. Three lightly bully her and spend the next three books after book one making it up to her. Her stories about fighting a dark magic cult. They also ended in HEA.
Which brings me to this series. AEA: Rune. Rune is the daughter of one of the supernatural councilwoman. She’s a basilisk. But she’s rare kind of. No other basilisk can do what she can. So it kind of makes her an enigma amongst her people.
I don’t even know how to begin to describe the guys to you. They’re each extremely unique. But I will try.
Dimitri. He’s your typical stoic vampire. He’s very standoffish and competitive.
Koa. I would say he’s your typical Phoenix, but he’s really not. He’s very shy, sweet and also offs himself in ridiculously stupid ways.
Slater. If you read Pandora story, then you met his brother Bram. Slater is literally a chaos demon. He literally sows chaos everywhere he goes. He is absolutely adorable, playful, and energetic.
Zuko. He’s a basilisk like her. Very very flirty. Him and Slater are like besties.
Drecken. If you read the previous two series, this isn’t the first time we’re meeting this man. Although I do think one of my favorite moments of him will always be crawling across the SC’s table to get the relic in Pandora’s books. It was absolutely hilarious. He’s 166-year-old warlock who has never been with anybody and doesn’t understand that he cannot replicate the feeling that he gives her because one cannot replicate butterflies or feelings. He’s adorable though.
And lastly. Jesper. Dragon. Who’s also the cousin of her POS ex. But don’t worry he’s nothing like his POS cousin. He actually punches him in the face. Jesper we have also met in Pandora series. And if you’ve read that, yes April is still a problem. He is absolutely adorable though and even made her noodles.
I really am not great at descriptions, but comparing this to the other two series it’s very very different. It’s amazing. Don’t get me wrong. I absolutely love everything this author writes. She will forever be a purchase for me. No matter if I like the premise of the book or not. Like she’s just an automatic buy.
Wren was such like a sweet and naïve character who was just growing into herself, but knew about the world around her. Pandora was the same, except she was learning everything because she never had any interaction with anybody besides nebula and her POS egg donor. Rune is very different from them because she dives into danger head first without thinking. And because of her special power, she consumes poison like it’s candy cause to her it is. This is very heavy on tactical strategies and battle plans, and things like that. Think of this more as if you watch true crime or cop shows kind of like that but supernatural squad.
The best way I can think of describing this is if you’ve ever watched the show Legacies that’s about Klaus Michaelson’s daughter Hope. And how they had the super squad. That’s basically what they are. They’re like the supernatural FBI. I really don’t know how to describe it.
But in all honesty, I think this is gonna be the most immersive one we get as far as hands-on if that makes sense? It’s very different but it’s no less than her other two series. I’m actually excited to see where this goes.
Although I will say woman, I’m very offended by this cliffhanger I’m literally staring at the last word wondering what the hell?
Seriously though if you have not read this author return, she’s amazing and she’s currently working on the next series in this world
Also, one more thing before I continue just a thought. I’m calling this now. Velstra is definitely evil. Aura is definitely human. That rings, she keeps twisting and how she acts shady and kind of curls into a ball and doesn’t do anything when it comes to them having to do things in class makes me think she has a glamour and that she’s spying on them. Also, with the way the book ends, Rune said she smelt an overwhelming scent of flowers. Aura smell smells like an overwhelming center of flowers and no one can pinpoint the scent which is weird. I mean Rune definitely smell. Smells singularly like midnight. Orchid to everybody. So I find it extremely weird that Auras scent cannot be pinpointed. Also, if there’s any spelling or miss useful word, I’m using speech to text. So sorry about that. But back to my theory, the two of them were talking in the beginning of the book and Rune said something along the lines of that was suspicious and she didn’t like that.
Being me, I definitely love true crime, and I love solving mysteries. I’ve literally color-coded my sections based off normal highlights which are in pink, and then my blue highlights, which are the facts. I’m just calling it that these two are gonna be evil.
Oh yeah, anyways I’m about to dive into book 2. Cannot wait to see how this goes. Thank you yet again for creating a masterpiece.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 12, 2026
Familiar Faces, New Chaos, and That Ending?!
I’ve been really excited to jump into this story. I’ve already read the previous two series in this universe, so seeing familiar characters pop up throughout the book was a really nice surprise.
Normally I dislike when FMCs are written to be great at everything, but in Rune’s case it actually worked. Considering who her parents are and the professions they hold, it makes sense that she’s as capable as she is. Her training and upbringing justify her skillset. I also loved how comfortable Rune was with herself and her sexuality. She didn’t hide from it or shy away from what she wanted.
That said, I did find it strange that she completely missed the issues with Aura. With the level of training Rune has had, that lack of awareness didn’t fully line up for me.
Speaking of Aura… I don’t trust her at all. Something about her feels off. My theory is that she’s either a human disguised as a supernatural or a supernatural who was raised by humans and sent there for a specific purpose. Whatever the case, she’s suspicious and I’m keeping my eye on her.
Dimitri honestly broke my heart a little. His behavior clearly reads as a trauma response, and unfortunately his parents aren’t doing anything to help that situation. If anything, they make it worse.
I enjoyed the rest of the guys, as well as Eleanor and Lorian. Hawk gave off creepy energy for most of the story and definitely got what he deserved. And Rune’s ex? Someone really needs to cut his tongue out because the things that come out of his mouth are disgusting.
One aspect I really loved was the agent training component. The classes, tests, and missions added a lot of depth to the story. Dimitri and Rune’s persona interview was especially entertaining, and the mission they were paired on was one of my favorite parts of the book.
The spice in this story also came in hot and early compared to the previous two series, which I appreciated. Reverse harem stories with multiple mates usually work better when the romantic tension starts developing early, especially when there are several potential partners involved.
Overall, this was a great start to the series. I spent most of the book waiting to see which mate bond would snap into place first. And that ending?! Absolutely wild. This is exactly why I struggle with reading unfinished series — now I need to know what happens next immediately.
Still, the story was strong enough that I’ll happily wait for book two.
I’ve been really excited to jump into this story. I’ve already read the previous two series in this universe, so seeing familiar characters pop up throughout the book was a really nice surprise.
Normally I dislike when FMCs are written to be great at everything, but in Rune’s case it actually worked. Considering who her parents are and the professions they hold, it makes sense that she’s as capable as she is. Her training and upbringing justify her skillset. I also loved how comfortable Rune was with herself and her sexuality. She didn’t hide from it or shy away from what she wanted.
That said, I did find it strange that she completely missed the issues with Aura. With the level of training Rune has had, that lack of awareness didn’t fully line up for me.
Speaking of Aura… I don’t trust her at all. Something about her feels off. My theory is that she’s either a human disguised as a supernatural or a supernatural who was raised by humans and sent there for a specific purpose. Whatever the case, she’s suspicious and I’m keeping my eye on her.
Dimitri honestly broke my heart a little. His behavior clearly reads as a trauma response, and unfortunately his parents aren’t doing anything to help that situation. If anything, they make it worse.
I enjoyed the rest of the guys, as well as Eleanor and Lorian. Hawk gave off creepy energy for most of the story and definitely got what he deserved. And Rune’s ex? Someone really needs to cut his tongue out because the things that come out of his mouth are disgusting.
One aspect I really loved was the agent training component. The classes, tests, and missions added a lot of depth to the story. Dimitri and Rune’s persona interview was especially entertaining, and the mission they were paired on was one of my favorite parts of the book.
The spice in this story also came in hot and early compared to the previous two series, which I appreciated. Reverse harem stories with multiple mates usually work better when the romantic tension starts developing early, especially when there are several potential partners involved.
Overall, this was a great start to the series. I spent most of the book waiting to see which mate bond would snap into place first. And that ending?! Absolutely wild. This is exactly why I struggle with reading unfinished series — now I need to know what happens next immediately.
Still, the story was strong enough that I’ll happily wait for book two.
March 13, 2026
4.0-4.5⭐️
“𝒟𝑒𝒹𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝓅𝑜𝒾𝓈𝑜𝓃 𝒾𝓃 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝓋𝑒𝒾𝓃𝓈.—𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓉𝒽𝓇𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒽𝒶𝓇𝓈𝒽𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝒸𝑜𝓃𝒹𝒾𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃𝓈”
oh i love being back into the world of Kalista with Rune in 𝑨𝒑𝒆𝒙 𝑬𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒚 𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒓 1 💚
i do love that each series and fmc is so different but the world is pretty similar so you don’t feel like you’re reading the same story over and over again. Rune, our basilisk fmc, is slightly unhinged and i LOVE it. and all her potential mates we have seen so far all seem to be a good balance for in different ways.
““𝐍𝐨 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫,” 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐠𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐲. “𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐞?” “𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐬,” 𝐙𝐮𝐤𝐨 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐝. “𝐌𝐲 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬.” 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐬.”
when you begin the book, you wonder what exactly Rune and her mates are going to go through. is it just surviving the academy and becoming agents or is there something more lurking. and as more unfolds, you also get the relationship development with all her potentials mates. it’s a slower burn for some, one who is resisting the pull to Rune… but then you have Slater and Zuko who are obsessed right away.
“𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧. 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡, 𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐢𝐞𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐡𝐞’𝐝 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞.”
i loved this book and the introduction to the academy rules and all the characters in the first half of the book, but the last maybe 1/3 of the book did feel a little rushed to finish out the year and to get to the ending and cliffhanger. however, still loved this book and story and where it’s going. definitely had me laughing at some points. poor Drecken 🤣 i cannot wait for the next book.
you do not need to read 𝑭𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒚 or 𝑫𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒏 𝑹𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒚 before this book, but it’s HIGHLY recommended and there is a lot of reference to the previous wars as well as characters.
““𝐈𝐟 𝐈 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠?” “𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭. 𝐎𝐛𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐥𝐲.””
thank you Lyra Winters for an e-ARC of 𝑨𝒑𝒆𝒙 𝑬𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒚 𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒓 1 🐍💚🖤
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
MFMMMMM, 1st person multi-POV
6 potential mates, 22 fmc
shared universe, academy setting, fated mates, mate bonds, MF & MFM scenes, Jacob’s Ladder, tattooed 🐓, obsessed mmcs, professor mmc, mixed supernatural, reluctant mmc, virgin mmc(s?), medium-slow burn, cliffhanger
safety: slight OW (obsessed fmc with one of the fmc’s mates, he does not reciprocate) & OM drama (fmc’s ex and squad member), no cheating, no manwhores
“𝒟𝑒𝒹𝒾𝒸𝒶𝓉𝑒𝒹 𝓉𝑜 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝓅𝑜𝒾𝓈𝑜𝓃 𝒾𝓃 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝓋𝑒𝒾𝓃𝓈.—𝓎𝑜𝓊 𝓌𝒾𝓁𝓁 𝓉𝒽𝓇𝒾𝓋𝑒 𝒾𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒽𝒶𝓇𝓈𝒽𝑒𝓈𝓉 𝒸𝑜𝓃𝒹𝒾𝓉𝒾𝑜𝓃𝓈”
oh i love being back into the world of Kalista with Rune in 𝑨𝒑𝒆𝒙 𝑬𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒚 𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒓 1 💚
i do love that each series and fmc is so different but the world is pretty similar so you don’t feel like you’re reading the same story over and over again. Rune, our basilisk fmc, is slightly unhinged and i LOVE it. and all her potential mates we have seen so far all seem to be a good balance for in different ways.
““𝐍𝐨 𝐟𝐚𝐢𝐫,” 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐦𝐮𝐦𝐛𝐥𝐞𝐝 𝐠𝐫𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐲. “𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐛 𝐡𝐢𝐦 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐦𝐞?” “𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭’𝐬 𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐬𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐥𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐬,” 𝐙𝐮𝐤𝐨 𝐩𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐝. “𝐌𝐲 𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐬.” 𝐒𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐦𝐬.”
when you begin the book, you wonder what exactly Rune and her mates are going to go through. is it just surviving the academy and becoming agents or is there something more lurking. and as more unfolds, you also get the relationship development with all her potentials mates. it’s a slower burn for some, one who is resisting the pull to Rune… but then you have Slater and Zuko who are obsessed right away.
“𝐈 𝐝𝐢𝐝𝐧’𝐭 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐧 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐬𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧. 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡, 𝐤𝐧𝐞𝐞𝐥 𝐚𝐭 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐧𝐲, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐦𝐲 𝐧𝐚𝐦𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐦𝐲 𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐮𝐞 𝐚𝐜𝐫𝐨𝐬𝐬 𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐢𝐞𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐬𝐡𝐞’𝐝 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐦𝐞.”
i loved this book and the introduction to the academy rules and all the characters in the first half of the book, but the last maybe 1/3 of the book did feel a little rushed to finish out the year and to get to the ending and cliffhanger. however, still loved this book and story and where it’s going. definitely had me laughing at some points. poor Drecken 🤣 i cannot wait for the next book.
you do not need to read 𝑭𝒂𝒕𝒆 𝑯𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒚 or 𝑫𝒆𝒎𝒐𝒏 𝑹𝒆𝒇𝒐𝒓𝒎 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒚 before this book, but it’s HIGHLY recommended and there is a lot of reference to the previous wars as well as characters.
““𝐈𝐟 𝐈 𝐬𝐚𝐢𝐝 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐦𝐲 𝐟𝐚𝐧𝐠𝐬 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐰𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐭𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠?” “𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭. 𝐎𝐛𝐯𝐢𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐥𝐲.””
thank you Lyra Winters for an e-ARC of 𝑨𝒑𝒆𝒙 𝑬𝒍𝒊𝒕𝒆 𝑨𝒄𝒂𝒅𝒆𝒎𝒚 𝒀𝒆𝒂𝒓 1 🐍💚🖤
✦ ✦ ✦ ✦ ✦
MFMMMMM, 1st person multi-POV
6 potential mates, 22 fmc
shared universe, academy setting, fated mates, mate bonds, MF & MFM scenes, Jacob’s Ladder, tattooed 🐓, obsessed mmcs, professor mmc, mixed supernatural, reluctant mmc, virgin mmc(s?), medium-slow burn, cliffhanger
safety: slight OW (obsessed fmc with one of the fmc’s mates, he does not reciprocate) & OM drama (fmc’s ex and squad member), no cheating, no manwhores
Review of advance copy received from Author
Amazing book 1 in series - academy, why choose
Absolutely in a chokehold over Year 1 and can't wait for Year 2. This book brings some steamy love interests into the heroine's life from the get-go. Our FMC is compassionate and deadly too, fits right in with the academy where they are training to be agents for the supernatural council.
Rune, basilisk, a prodigy in her own right, passed the entrance exam with flying colors, especially since her dad is the headmaster, the other is an instructor, and her mom works with the council already. At exams, Rune runs into some men she just can't take her eyes off of, and some of them just know they are going to fall for her too. Slater, chaos demon, brother of Bram (Demon Reform Academy), pretty much tells them all he's going to be part of the family. He's got this golden retriever puppy energy that is contagious. Then Zuko, another basilisk, taken in right away by her beauty and venom - even goes so far as to tattoo her name a certain place. Koa, quiet phoenix shifter, healing powers, he's got some family history that makes the council keep an eye on him. Dimitri, vampire, definite family issues, piano prodigy, scores top marks in exam with Rune. Jesper, a drake (dragon) super agent already, very careful about how he acts around women, doesn't want to be like his sperm donor. And finally, Drecken, seems to be on the spectrum, never bothered with anything romantic in the past, and totally obsessed with Rune's venoms. He absolutely doesn't know what to do with these new things he's feeling so is trying to recreate them in the lab.
There are supernaturals disappearing, some returning almost dead, some not coming back at all. And not only that but there is a poison masking as a disease making it's way around the academy that no one can heal from. As we all know in Lyra's worlds, it's going to get a lot worse before it gets better. Loved this start of the new series.
Absolutely in a chokehold over Year 1 and can't wait for Year 2. This book brings some steamy love interests into the heroine's life from the get-go. Our FMC is compassionate and deadly too, fits right in with the academy where they are training to be agents for the supernatural council.
Rune, basilisk, a prodigy in her own right, passed the entrance exam with flying colors, especially since her dad is the headmaster, the other is an instructor, and her mom works with the council already. At exams, Rune runs into some men she just can't take her eyes off of, and some of them just know they are going to fall for her too. Slater, chaos demon, brother of Bram (Demon Reform Academy), pretty much tells them all he's going to be part of the family. He's got this golden retriever puppy energy that is contagious. Then Zuko, another basilisk, taken in right away by her beauty and venom - even goes so far as to tattoo her name a certain place. Koa, quiet phoenix shifter, healing powers, he's got some family history that makes the council keep an eye on him. Dimitri, vampire, definite family issues, piano prodigy, scores top marks in exam with Rune. Jesper, a drake (dragon) super agent already, very careful about how he acts around women, doesn't want to be like his sperm donor. And finally, Drecken, seems to be on the spectrum, never bothered with anything romantic in the past, and totally obsessed with Rune's venoms. He absolutely doesn't know what to do with these new things he's feeling so is trying to recreate them in the lab.
There are supernaturals disappearing, some returning almost dead, some not coming back at all. And not only that but there is a poison masking as a disease making it's way around the academy that no one can heal from. As we all know in Lyra's worlds, it's going to get a lot worse before it gets better. Loved this start of the new series.
March 19, 2026
Lyra, you have done it again! What a literal Masterpiece. I loved it and couldn't get enough.
Our fmc is Rune. I love everything about her. She is smart, kind, genuine, brave, beautiful and extremely intelligent. We have met Rune in Pandora's story and I really liked her so I was so excited that we got her story.
Our mmc's are Slater, Zuko, Koa, Drecken, Jesper and Dimitri. These men are all so different, and i really like them all. They each bring something unique out in Rune and I am so excited to see more from them, except Dimitri in a way. He has some grovelling to do because he's been a little naughty towards Rune if i do say so myself.
The plot was everything. Rune enters Apex Elite Academy and has caught the attention of not one, but 6 men. Rune hits the ground running and proves time after time that she is meant to be an agent through her skills, Venom, intelligence and leadership. I loved that Rune was able to let a couple of the guys in so early on and felt safe with them after what she has been through. I am excited to see how all the relationships evolve over time because I think it's going to be really sweet and beautiful. There's so much more I could say but I just don't want to spoil anything so I am being really vague, sorry 😅.
Be prepared for the cliffhanger because that was absolutely insane, I need to know what the heck happened.
Shout out to Rune's brother and friends, your the best.
An amazing introduction into this world. So worth the read!
Thank you so much Lyra and your incredible team for the opportunity to read this story and to be a part of your ARC team 🙏 I am forever grateful 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶🌶
💚 why choose
💚 multiple pov
💚 bada$$ fmc
💚 fated mates
💚 elite agent training academy
💚 unhinged mmc's
💚 supernaturals
💚 touch them and ☠️
💚 forced proximity
💚 age gap
💚 student x teacher
💚 spicy
💚 so much more...
Our fmc is Rune. I love everything about her. She is smart, kind, genuine, brave, beautiful and extremely intelligent. We have met Rune in Pandora's story and I really liked her so I was so excited that we got her story.
Our mmc's are Slater, Zuko, Koa, Drecken, Jesper and Dimitri. These men are all so different, and i really like them all. They each bring something unique out in Rune and I am so excited to see more from them, except Dimitri in a way. He has some grovelling to do because he's been a little naughty towards Rune if i do say so myself.
The plot was everything. Rune enters Apex Elite Academy and has caught the attention of not one, but 6 men. Rune hits the ground running and proves time after time that she is meant to be an agent through her skills, Venom, intelligence and leadership. I loved that Rune was able to let a couple of the guys in so early on and felt safe with them after what she has been through. I am excited to see how all the relationships evolve over time because I think it's going to be really sweet and beautiful. There's so much more I could say but I just don't want to spoil anything so I am being really vague, sorry 😅.
Be prepared for the cliffhanger because that was absolutely insane, I need to know what the heck happened.
Shout out to Rune's brother and friends, your the best.
An amazing introduction into this world. So worth the read!
Thank you so much Lyra and your incredible team for the opportunity to read this story and to be a part of your ARC team 🙏 I am forever grateful 🩷
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 🌶🌶🌶🌶
💚 why choose
💚 multiple pov
💚 bada$$ fmc
💚 fated mates
💚 elite agent training academy
💚 unhinged mmc's
💚 supernaturals
💚 touch them and ☠️
💚 forced proximity
💚 age gap
💚 student x teacher
💚 spicy
💚 so much more...
April 4, 2026
Ok. There’s a lot to unpack here. First of all, I just wanna say that I really enjoyed the fate Hollow series. I’ve read it several times. That’s just what I do with my favorite series books. The final book always does annoy me a fat Hollow because there’s so much sex. I wouldn’t necessarily say we had the same problem with this book, but it was so long.
This book is over 600 pages. On Kindle. That’s insane. It’s over 600 pages and it ends on a cliffhanger with zero mate bonds snapping into effect. I like the twist that the bonds stopped being instant, like how Wren was with Rowan. I really like that this is intertwined and we got a little tiny update on some of those characters from fate Hollow. But this book was very frustrating.
First of all, I just wanna say that Rune is actually a great character. She’s sassy, has a badass power, she doesn’t need a guy and I really appreciate the fact that she isn’t so timid and constantly needs to be around them. But it’s also kind of anti-climactic because right when she’s about to do something awesome somebody steps in it’s really weird. One of the boys always intervenes or aura intervenes.
Speaking of aura, I clocked that within the first couple of chapters that she was a bad guy. It was way too obvious. It’s not said in this book, but it’s way too obvious.
Slater and Zuko are way too close in personality. There’s almost no differentiating the two of them. Dimitri is interesting, but he’s also very close to Koa. Jesper it’s OK. I don’t really think he was in the first book enough to get a sense for him and the warlock was funny.
I think too much focus was put on the simulations and the classes, not enough actual story was told. We should not have been put through four terms of a year you should have skimmed through further. And at least one of the bonds should have snapped into place. I’m gonna give book to a try because I have never not finished one of her series, but I was very disappointed in this book.
This book is over 600 pages. On Kindle. That’s insane. It’s over 600 pages and it ends on a cliffhanger with zero mate bonds snapping into effect. I like the twist that the bonds stopped being instant, like how Wren was with Rowan. I really like that this is intertwined and we got a little tiny update on some of those characters from fate Hollow. But this book was very frustrating.
First of all, I just wanna say that Rune is actually a great character. She’s sassy, has a badass power, she doesn’t need a guy and I really appreciate the fact that she isn’t so timid and constantly needs to be around them. But it’s also kind of anti-climactic because right when she’s about to do something awesome somebody steps in it’s really weird. One of the boys always intervenes or aura intervenes.
Speaking of aura, I clocked that within the first couple of chapters that she was a bad guy. It was way too obvious. It’s not said in this book, but it’s way too obvious.
Slater and Zuko are way too close in personality. There’s almost no differentiating the two of them. Dimitri is interesting, but he’s also very close to Koa. Jesper it’s OK. I don’t really think he was in the first book enough to get a sense for him and the warlock was funny.
I think too much focus was put on the simulations and the classes, not enough actual story was told. We should not have been put through four terms of a year you should have skimmed through further. And at least one of the bonds should have snapped into place. I’m gonna give book to a try because I have never not finished one of her series, but I was very disappointed in this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2026
If you love Academy Romance and multiple fated mates Apex Elite Academy is for you! This book was amazing, and I could not put it down. Rune is absolutely my favorite character. Training her whole life, she is getting to live her dream of becoming an agent like her parents and brother. Rune runs into some men on her way to the exams and is instantly drawn to them, and some are instantly drawn to her as well. Slater, chaos demon and brother of Bram in Demon Reform Academy, instantly tells his brother and her that she is his mate and that he is going to be part of the family. Zuko, another basilisk, is captivated by her beauty and venom and gets a tattoo of her name in a certain area. Koa is a quiet phoenix shifter and is being watched by the council because of some family history. Dimitri is a vampire who absolutely has some family problems and is a piano prodigy. He scores top marks in the exam with Rune, and they start wanting to do better than the other, competing with each other. Jesper is a drake dragon who is already an agent and keeps women at a distance, watching how he acts around them. He does not want Rune to think he is like her ex, Darian, who is his cousin and a bad guy. Then there is Drecken, who has not bothered with anything romantic and has never had these kinds of feelings; he is obsessed with Runes venoms to experiment with. He doesn't know what to do with the new things he is feeling and tries to recreate these feelings in the lab.
There are so many things happening in the story: supernaturals are disappearing, and there is a human-made poison that is going around the Academy that no one seems to be able to heal from. Year 1 is left with a cliffhanger where Rune is trapped in one of her exam simulations.
An absolutely amazing book, and I can't wait to read the next one.
There are so many things happening in the story: supernaturals are disappearing, and there is a human-made poison that is going around the Academy that no one seems to be able to heal from. Year 1 is left with a cliffhanger where Rune is trapped in one of her exam simulations.
An absolutely amazing book, and I can't wait to read the next one.
March 19, 2026
Apex Elite Academy Year One
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
This book was phenomenal, full marks. I have read every one of Lyra's books and they never fail to disappoint, but this book was different. Rune was in a class all of her own, she owned every room she was in and every page she was on. When I met her in the Demon Reform Academy, I just knew she was going to be a firecracker and my expectations were blown out of the water. She had me dying of laughter a good bit of the book and the other times I couldn't stop thinking how badass she was.
The guys, Slater and Zuko are the definition of golden retriever ( but touch her and croak vibes) i honestly couldn't pick between them but thank goodness she doesn't have to. I can't wait for the next book to see how the relationships develop between Rune and her other guys, Koa was my sweet clumsy firebird, and Drecken was so innocent and blunt that I couldn't help but want more scenes with the two of them. Jesper has the biggest heart and Mom's boy which I just loved. Now Dimitri a big brooding hot vampire, him and Runes chemistry had me screaming and the book to do it and let it all out.
It truly felt as if I was there with them learning how to become an agent and navigate the tough tasks that they must go through. Reading what Rune was going through and how she grew was a sight to behold, although that cliffhanger was brutal. I was so immersed in the story that I turned the page and was at the end and my jaw dropped. Amazing work. Cannot wait for Year Two!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5
This book was phenomenal, full marks. I have read every one of Lyra's books and they never fail to disappoint, but this book was different. Rune was in a class all of her own, she owned every room she was in and every page she was on. When I met her in the Demon Reform Academy, I just knew she was going to be a firecracker and my expectations were blown out of the water. She had me dying of laughter a good bit of the book and the other times I couldn't stop thinking how badass she was.
The guys, Slater and Zuko are the definition of golden retriever ( but touch her and croak vibes) i honestly couldn't pick between them but thank goodness she doesn't have to. I can't wait for the next book to see how the relationships develop between Rune and her other guys, Koa was my sweet clumsy firebird, and Drecken was so innocent and blunt that I couldn't help but want more scenes with the two of them. Jesper has the biggest heart and Mom's boy which I just loved. Now Dimitri a big brooding hot vampire, him and Runes chemistry had me screaming and the book to do it and let it all out.
It truly felt as if I was there with them learning how to become an agent and navigate the tough tasks that they must go through. Reading what Rune was going through and how she grew was a sight to behold, although that cliffhanger was brutal. I was so immersed in the story that I turned the page and was at the end and my jaw dropped. Amazing work. Cannot wait for Year Two!!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 314 reviews