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Ashwell Academy #1
Bone Year
A DEAD HEALER SAVES NO ONE.
Maelis Rose is supposed to be a village healer like her father, but when he dies and a letter summons her to an academy she never applied to, she leaves behind everything she knows.
Her departure comes at the worst-possible time. The Cycle rips through Valen every hundred years, unleashing twisted creatures that decimate entire villages.
A BRUTAL ACADEMY.
Ashwell Academy trains Veilguards: battlefield surgeons who fight to save lives while war rages all around them. Most don't survive training.
Maelis is human in a school full of vampires, fae, shifters, angels, and demons. They see her as weak, disposable, already dead. The headmaster sees something else entirely, and his attention might be worse than their contempt.
A DANGEROUS OBSESSION.
Then there's Draven Alucard, a vampire with blood on his hands and a black wolf that watches her almost as much as he does. He tells her she doesn't belong and pushes her until she breaks, yet when danger finds her, he's always there first. She doesn't understand him but can't stop thinking about him either. He's hiding something.
So is she, though she doesn't know it yet.
A SECRET IN HER BLOOD.
Everyone at Ashwell has an agenda, but Maelis is fighting a war no one else can see. Her hands won't stop shaking, and her father's death haunts every cut she tries to make. If she can't learn to hold a scalpel steady, the Cycle won't be what kills her.
But the real question is—why did Ashwell summon her in the first place?
Maelis Rose is supposed to be a village healer like her father, but when he dies and a letter summons her to an academy she never applied to, she leaves behind everything she knows.
Her departure comes at the worst-possible time. The Cycle rips through Valen every hundred years, unleashing twisted creatures that decimate entire villages.
A BRUTAL ACADEMY.
Ashwell Academy trains Veilguards: battlefield surgeons who fight to save lives while war rages all around them. Most don't survive training.
Maelis is human in a school full of vampires, fae, shifters, angels, and demons. They see her as weak, disposable, already dead. The headmaster sees something else entirely, and his attention might be worse than their contempt.
A DANGEROUS OBSESSION.
Then there's Draven Alucard, a vampire with blood on his hands and a black wolf that watches her almost as much as he does. He tells her she doesn't belong and pushes her until she breaks, yet when danger finds her, he's always there first. She doesn't understand him but can't stop thinking about him either. He's hiding something.
So is she, though she doesn't know it yet.
A SECRET IN HER BLOOD.
Everyone at Ashwell has an agenda, but Maelis is fighting a war no one else can see. Her hands won't stop shaking, and her father's death haunts every cut she tries to make. If she can't learn to hold a scalpel steady, the Cycle won't be what kills her.
But the real question is—why did Ashwell summon her in the first place?
428 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 243 reviews
August 26, 2026
finished this 5 ⭐️ dark academia romantasy in 4 hours. I am unstoppable.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did NOT expect to become this obsessed with Bone Year. I absolutely devoured this book.
Any comparison I try to make doesn't quite do it justice, but I'm going with Harry Potter graduate-level school meets Grey's Anatomy. Yeah...I know that doesn't necessarily sell it for me either. 😂 But TRUST ME on this one.
Maelis is a human who gets accepted into a magical medical school she didn't apply to; one that has never allowed a human to attend before. Her best friend, Jace, is an angel who has been trying to get into the school for years, and he ends up being accepted too.
Once they arrive, Maelis quickly makes a few friends, a few enemies, and manages to capture the attention of Draven, a secretive, infuriating vampire who I immediately needed to know EVERYTHING about.
And every student gets an animal sidekick, aka eidolon. 🖤 If you know me, you know I'm already sold at animal sidekick, but I loved the fresh and interesting spin that was put on them here. They aren't just cute little companions thrown into the story, they are actually a part of their person and this world.
Then throw in stressful field assignments, drama in the medical wings, someone mysteriously dying, people with secret backgrounds I desperately needed to uncover, forbidden and mysterious areas begging to be explored, and enough unanswered questions to keep me saying "just one more chapter" over and over again.
There is just SO MUCH going on in this book, but somehow it never felt like too much. I wanted to explore every corner of the school, uncover everyone's secrets, figure out what the hell was happening, and spend more time with these characters.
I went into Bone Year thinking the premise sounded interesting.
I came out completely obsessed.
I need more Maelis. I need more Draven. I need more of this school. I need more answers.
Basically...I just need MORE.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Easily one of my favorite surprises of the year.
Any comparison I try to make doesn't quite do it justice, but I'm going with Harry Potter graduate-level school meets Grey's Anatomy. Yeah...I know that doesn't necessarily sell it for me either. 😂 But TRUST ME on this one.
Maelis is a human who gets accepted into a magical medical school she didn't apply to; one that has never allowed a human to attend before. Her best friend, Jace, is an angel who has been trying to get into the school for years, and he ends up being accepted too.
Once they arrive, Maelis quickly makes a few friends, a few enemies, and manages to capture the attention of Draven, a secretive, infuriating vampire who I immediately needed to know EVERYTHING about.
And every student gets an animal sidekick, aka eidolon. 🖤 If you know me, you know I'm already sold at animal sidekick, but I loved the fresh and interesting spin that was put on them here. They aren't just cute little companions thrown into the story, they are actually a part of their person and this world.
Then throw in stressful field assignments, drama in the medical wings, someone mysteriously dying, people with secret backgrounds I desperately needed to uncover, forbidden and mysterious areas begging to be explored, and enough unanswered questions to keep me saying "just one more chapter" over and over again.
There is just SO MUCH going on in this book, but somehow it never felt like too much. I wanted to explore every corner of the school, uncover everyone's secrets, figure out what the hell was happening, and spend more time with these characters.
I went into Bone Year thinking the premise sounded interesting.
I came out completely obsessed.
I need more Maelis. I need more Draven. I need more of this school. I need more answers.
Basically...I just need MORE.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Easily one of my favorite surprises of the year.
September 10, 2026
He breaks the kiss, and his eyes meet mine again, the red bleeding into the gold until only flecks remain. “I don’t want gentle, Rose. I want every sound you’ve been keeping behind your teeth.”
Is it hot in here? It suddenly got so hot?!
This is my official favorite slow burn of the year! The absolute denial in the yearning was killing me in all the right ways.
Maelis never thought she would be summoned to Ashwell Academy. The one place we're battlefield surgeons are trained. She is surrounded by angels, vampires, demons, and fae, her only true defense is the scalpel in her hand. The world is being ripped apart by creatures while her own heart and head are being torn be her own personal monster. Everyone seems to equalky hate her and want her for reasons she doesn't even know. This is filled with highstakes and even higher tension. A bloody good time.
P.s. I may never forgive the author for that dream sequence. You got me. I loved it.
Is it hot in here? It suddenly got so hot?!
This is my official favorite slow burn of the year! The absolute denial in the yearning was killing me in all the right ways.
Maelis never thought she would be summoned to Ashwell Academy. The one place we're battlefield surgeons are trained. She is surrounded by angels, vampires, demons, and fae, her only true defense is the scalpel in her hand. The world is being ripped apart by creatures while her own heart and head are being torn be her own personal monster. Everyone seems to equalky hate her and want her for reasons she doesn't even know. This is filled with highstakes and even higher tension. A bloody good time.
P.s. I may never forgive the author for that dream sequence. You got me. I loved it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was truly one of my favorite reads of the year. This book felt like Fourth Wing meets Grey’s Anatomy and I ate it up sooo quickly!
Maelis Rose is a human summoned to Ashwell Academy without ever applying, and Ashwell teaches the paranormal how to heal and essentially be magical doctors. Thankfully, Maelis’s best friend Jace is also attending Ashwell and they are both first years or “Bone Years.” Maelis is ostracized due to being a human and quickly comes up on Draven Alucard’s radar in a way she wishes to avoid. Draven is mysterious, powerful, and a vampire. There’s sooo much tension and I adored so many aspects of this book, including familiar side kicks.
Read this if you like:
🦝 magical academy for healers
💉 paranormal world with vampires, angels, shifters
🦝 animal familiars
💉 rich world building and “cycles”
🦝 slow burn
💉 forced proximity
🦝 overall mystery and impending war
This book is plot forward and absolutely incredible. I suspect we’ll have some spice in future book(s) and I cannot wait for them. Beware, there is a cliffhanger ending but it’s sooo worth it!
Thank you so much to Ashley for the advanced copy!
Maelis Rose is a human summoned to Ashwell Academy without ever applying, and Ashwell teaches the paranormal how to heal and essentially be magical doctors. Thankfully, Maelis’s best friend Jace is also attending Ashwell and they are both first years or “Bone Years.” Maelis is ostracized due to being a human and quickly comes up on Draven Alucard’s radar in a way she wishes to avoid. Draven is mysterious, powerful, and a vampire. There’s sooo much tension and I adored so many aspects of this book, including familiar side kicks.
Read this if you like:
🦝 magical academy for healers
💉 paranormal world with vampires, angels, shifters
🦝 animal familiars
💉 rich world building and “cycles”
🦝 slow burn
💉 forced proximity
🦝 overall mystery and impending war
This book is plot forward and absolutely incredible. I suspect we’ll have some spice in future book(s) and I cannot wait for them. Beware, there is a cliffhanger ending but it’s sooo worth it!
Thank you so much to Ashley for the advanced copy!
September 3, 2026
📚✨ BONE YEAR — 5 ⭐️ READ ✨📚
Bone Year is the first book in the Ashwell Academy series, and honestly… WHAT. A. START. 🔥
We follow Maelis Rose, a young woman living quietly in a small village, working as a healer alongside her father. After his death, the life she loved is suddenly taken away from her, leaving her spending her days hidden away in his study or with her best friend, Jace.
And Jace? He’s an Angel. 😏✨
Maelis has loved him for as long as she can remember, but she’s never been brave enough to cross that line. Deep down, she believes Jace is destined for something greater and that, eventually, he’ll leave her behind too.
Then everything changes when Maelis is mysteriously summoned to Ashwell Academy.
She never applied. She’s human. And humans aren’t even accepted.
Ashwell is a magical academy where students are trained to become Veilguards, essentially surgeons who venture onto battlefields to save lives. But Maelis quickly discovers that there is so much more to this academy, and to herself, than she ever could have imagined.
And then there’s Draven Allucard. 🖤🧛🏻
The brooding vampire with a black wolf constantly by his side. A character who watches everything Maelis does, while doing everything he can to keep her at arm’s length.
But somehow… he can never quite stay away.
Draven is absolutely dripping in secrets, and the mystery surrounding him had me questioning EVERYTHING. The push-and-pull between him and Maelis is slow-building, filled with tension, suspicion and those moments where you KNOW there is something neither of them is saying.
And then there’s Valen’s cycle… 👀
Every hundred years, something terrifying is unleashed, bringing twisted creatures that destroy anything in their path. Suddenly, Maelis finds herself caught up in something far bigger and more dangerous than she could ever have imagined.
This book has SO much going for it. 🖤
✨ Magical academy
✨ Fae
✨ Angels
✨ Wolves
✨ Demons
✨ Vampires
✨ Animal companions
✨ Found friendships
✨ Secrets and hidden identities
✨ Trauma and healing
✨ Brooding characters
✨ Mystery and danger
✨ A magical, sentient academy
✨ And SO much emotional damage!
Ashwell Academy itself might be one of my favourite parts because it is actually ALIVE. It can make choices, influence events and seemingly have its own opinions about its pupils. 👀
I was completely invested in Maelis’s journey. There is so much she still has to discover about herself, her abilities and the people she thought she could trust.
This book had me feeling EVERYTHING, warmth, excitement, fear, heartbreak and frustration. There were moments where I was sitting on the edge of my seat, desperately needing to know what was going to happen next… and moments where my heart was absolutely shattered. 💔
The friendships, the mystery, the danger, the brooding and the sheer amount of things Maelis has yet to uncover have completely sucked me into this world.
And that ending?!
Yeah… I NEED MORE. 😂📚
Bone Year has officially left me invested in Ashwell Academy and desperate to see where Maelis’s story goes next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
If you love magical academies, supernatural beings, found friendships, mysterious worlds, brooding characters and a heroine who has SO much more to discover about herself, add this one to your TBR!
Now excuse me while I patiently (or very impatiently) wait for more… 👀🖤
Bone Year is the first book in the Ashwell Academy series, and honestly… WHAT. A. START. 🔥
We follow Maelis Rose, a young woman living quietly in a small village, working as a healer alongside her father. After his death, the life she loved is suddenly taken away from her, leaving her spending her days hidden away in his study or with her best friend, Jace.
And Jace? He’s an Angel. 😏✨
Maelis has loved him for as long as she can remember, but she’s never been brave enough to cross that line. Deep down, she believes Jace is destined for something greater and that, eventually, he’ll leave her behind too.
Then everything changes when Maelis is mysteriously summoned to Ashwell Academy.
She never applied. She’s human. And humans aren’t even accepted.
Ashwell is a magical academy where students are trained to become Veilguards, essentially surgeons who venture onto battlefields to save lives. But Maelis quickly discovers that there is so much more to this academy, and to herself, than she ever could have imagined.
And then there’s Draven Allucard. 🖤🧛🏻
The brooding vampire with a black wolf constantly by his side. A character who watches everything Maelis does, while doing everything he can to keep her at arm’s length.
But somehow… he can never quite stay away.
Draven is absolutely dripping in secrets, and the mystery surrounding him had me questioning EVERYTHING. The push-and-pull between him and Maelis is slow-building, filled with tension, suspicion and those moments where you KNOW there is something neither of them is saying.
And then there’s Valen’s cycle… 👀
Every hundred years, something terrifying is unleashed, bringing twisted creatures that destroy anything in their path. Suddenly, Maelis finds herself caught up in something far bigger and more dangerous than she could ever have imagined.
This book has SO much going for it. 🖤
✨ Magical academy
✨ Fae
✨ Angels
✨ Wolves
✨ Demons
✨ Vampires
✨ Animal companions
✨ Found friendships
✨ Secrets and hidden identities
✨ Trauma and healing
✨ Brooding characters
✨ Mystery and danger
✨ A magical, sentient academy
✨ And SO much emotional damage!
Ashwell Academy itself might be one of my favourite parts because it is actually ALIVE. It can make choices, influence events and seemingly have its own opinions about its pupils. 👀
I was completely invested in Maelis’s journey. There is so much she still has to discover about herself, her abilities and the people she thought she could trust.
This book had me feeling EVERYTHING, warmth, excitement, fear, heartbreak and frustration. There were moments where I was sitting on the edge of my seat, desperately needing to know what was going to happen next… and moments where my heart was absolutely shattered. 💔
The friendships, the mystery, the danger, the brooding and the sheer amount of things Maelis has yet to uncover have completely sucked me into this world.
And that ending?!
Yeah… I NEED MORE. 😂📚
Bone Year has officially left me invested in Ashwell Academy and desperate to see where Maelis’s story goes next.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
If you love magical academies, supernatural beings, found friendships, mysterious worlds, brooding characters and a heroine who has SO much more to discover about herself, add this one to your TBR!
Now excuse me while I patiently (or very impatiently) wait for more… 👀🖤
September 19, 2026
When the Darkness Knows Your Name
Dark, unsettling, atmospheric, and utterly addictive.
'Bone Year' creates an atmosphere that immediately draws the reader into something deeply unsettling. There is a constant sense that something darker is waiting just beneath the surface, making the story increasingly difficult to put down.
Ashley O'Donovan does a fantastic job of building tension without relying solely on shock value. The darkness is woven naturally through the story, while the eerie atmosphere gives the entire book an almost haunting quality. Certain moments linger long after the page has been turned, precisely because the unease is so effectively created.
The characters add another compelling layer. Flawed, complicated, and unpredictable, they never feel completely safe or easy to understand. Their choices keep the tension high, while the darker elements make it difficult to predict where the story is heading.
The writing also deserves recognition. There is something raw and beautifully unsettling about the way the darker themes are presented. Rather than simply being dark for the sake of darkness, they contribute to the atmosphere and give the story its distinctive edge.
'Bone Year' is the kind of book that crawls beneath the skin and stays there. Haunting, twisted, atmospheric, and wonderfully dark, it delivers the kind of reading experience that leaves the reader craving more.
Thank you to Ashley O'Donovan for the ARC. This is an honest, voluntary review.
Dark atmosphere | Eerie | Psychological tension | Twisted | Unsettling | Complex characters | Dark fiction
Dark, unsettling, atmospheric, and utterly addictive.
'Bone Year' creates an atmosphere that immediately draws the reader into something deeply unsettling. There is a constant sense that something darker is waiting just beneath the surface, making the story increasingly difficult to put down.
Ashley O'Donovan does a fantastic job of building tension without relying solely on shock value. The darkness is woven naturally through the story, while the eerie atmosphere gives the entire book an almost haunting quality. Certain moments linger long after the page has been turned, precisely because the unease is so effectively created.
The characters add another compelling layer. Flawed, complicated, and unpredictable, they never feel completely safe or easy to understand. Their choices keep the tension high, while the darker elements make it difficult to predict where the story is heading.
The writing also deserves recognition. There is something raw and beautifully unsettling about the way the darker themes are presented. Rather than simply being dark for the sake of darkness, they contribute to the atmosphere and give the story its distinctive edge.
'Bone Year' is the kind of book that crawls beneath the skin and stays there. Haunting, twisted, atmospheric, and wonderfully dark, it delivers the kind of reading experience that leaves the reader craving more.
Thank you to Ashley O'Donovan for the ARC. This is an honest, voluntary review.
Dark atmosphere | Eerie | Psychological tension | Twisted | Unsettling | Complex characters | Dark fiction
September 10, 2026
BONE YEAR
“Blood remembers what history forgets.”
Dark academia thats like if Fourth Wing and Greys Anatomy had a baby…. Hell yes!
This was one of those books that was hard for me to put down. So many aspects of this story was so interesting that it easily held my attention through every single moment. There was so many layers to it. I loved how there was multiple meaningful relationships/side characters and the main love interest was such a painfully delicious slow burn.
This story was just written so so well. It really took its time, every scene/moment felt intentional and important. I could not get enough.
Maelis is summoned to Ashwell Academy to train as a battlefield surgeon. But she never applied and no human as ever attended the academy before. Now she must navigate this new magical academy as the only human among vampires, fae, angels, shifters and demons who see her as weak and believe she doesn’t belong among them, especially Draven, the mysterious vampire who seems to always be watching her.
Everyone at Ashwell seems to have secrets, and the danger isn’t just outside the academy walls were twisted creatures lurk, but perhaps much closer than Maelis thinks.
I absolutely loved it. The ending though… criminal!😩 I need book 2 asap! I’m not ready to be done with this world and story!
“Blood remembers what history forgets.”
Dark academia thats like if Fourth Wing and Greys Anatomy had a baby…. Hell yes!
This was one of those books that was hard for me to put down. So many aspects of this story was so interesting that it easily held my attention through every single moment. There was so many layers to it. I loved how there was multiple meaningful relationships/side characters and the main love interest was such a painfully delicious slow burn.
This story was just written so so well. It really took its time, every scene/moment felt intentional and important. I could not get enough.
Maelis is summoned to Ashwell Academy to train as a battlefield surgeon. But she never applied and no human as ever attended the academy before. Now she must navigate this new magical academy as the only human among vampires, fae, angels, shifters and demons who see her as weak and believe she doesn’t belong among them, especially Draven, the mysterious vampire who seems to always be watching her.
Everyone at Ashwell seems to have secrets, and the danger isn’t just outside the academy walls were twisted creatures lurk, but perhaps much closer than Maelis thinks.
I absolutely loved it. The ending though… criminal!😩 I need book 2 asap! I’m not ready to be done with this world and story!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was definitely a wild ride! I love Maelis so much, then you have Draven...the brooding vampire who can't help but stare at her. Not to mention the cutest animal ever, Poppy. Maelis has been through a lot and her life is about to take some very interesting turns! Enrolled in a school not made for humans, she has to overcome her fears. The twists and turns never stop and some questions are answered but some are not...not yet anyways. If you've read The Demon and The Savior Duet you already know how the end will go...an absolutely brutal cliffhanger that left me stunned.
This was definitely a wild ride! I love Maelis so much, then you have Draven...the brooding vampire who can't help but stare at her. Not to mention the cutest animal ever, Poppy. Maelis has been through a lot and her life is about to take some very interesting turns! Enrolled in a school not made for humans, she has to overcome her fears. The twists and turns never stop and some questions are answered but some are not...not yet anyways. If you've read The Demon and The Savior Duet you already know how the end will go...an absolutely brutal cliffhanger that left me stunned.
September 14, 2026
@ashleyrodonovan has blown me away with another incredible story!
There is something about the way that she writes, it makes me feel like I'm right there with the characters in the story!
I loved Maelies from the beginning! She was strong, driven and wanted to show up in the best way she could when she's taken to the academy.
First years are known as Bone Years. Here is where the story takes off and you meet more characters. You meet him here at the academy to.
Did I mention animal companions? OMG I loved them!!! Poppy was cute in the story and I can't wait to see more.
Thank you Ashley for letting me enjoy your incredible story! I can't wait for year two, blood year.
Overall ★★★★★/5
There is something about the way that she writes, it makes me feel like I'm right there with the characters in the story!
I loved Maelies from the beginning! She was strong, driven and wanted to show up in the best way she could when she's taken to the academy.
First years are known as Bone Years. Here is where the story takes off and you meet more characters. You meet him here at the academy to.
Did I mention animal companions? OMG I loved them!!! Poppy was cute in the story and I can't wait to see more.
Thank you Ashley for letting me enjoy your incredible story! I can't wait for year two, blood year.
Overall ★★★★★/5
September 4, 2026
4.5 stars
Bone Year was such a unique and unexpected read! I absolutely loved the unusual battlefield healer concept, and it ended up being one of my favorite parts of the worldbuilding. Instead of another fantasy academy where everyone is simply learning how to kill people, Ashwell trains Healers and Veilguards to keep people alive. I thought that was such a refreshing change.
There is a LOT of worldbuilding here, including terminology, training, history, and plenty of mystery being established. There were definitely some stretches where I wanted the story to move a little faster, but the progression really paid off. Once the second half started pulling those threads together, I suddenly understood why so many details had been introduced earlier, and I became completely invested in seeing how everything would connect.
I also became incredibly invested in Maelis. She isn't perfect, and I loved that about her. She's not afraid to struggle, doubt herself, or make mistakes, but she keeps going anyway. She was incredibly easy to root for, and I found myself just as invested in her journey as I was in uncovering the mysteries surrounding Ashwell. There is clearly so much more going on than Maelis has been told, and I loved slowly realizing that alongside her.
And then the ending started answering questions... only to somehow give me EVEN MORE QUESTIONS.
And then...
“Welcome to the tenth floor, Miss Rose.”
HOW COULD YOU, ASHLEY?! 👀🫠
I NEED BOOK TWO. I need to know what happens next because that cliffhanger was absolutely brutal.
My biggest critique would probably be some of the loose ends. There were moments where I found myself thinking, “Wait... why aren't you asking about this right now?!” There were a few situations where I felt Maelis could have followed certain clues a little more directly, especially when she was already uncovering information that seemed like it could lead to more answers. I sometimes found myself questioning why she didn't dig deeper into certain mysteries when the opportunity presented itself. I think some of those choices made the story feel like it was holding back information that Maelis potentially could have uncovered sooner.
That said, those questions didn't take away from how much I enjoyed the story. If anything, they left me even more eager to see what gets answered in the next book. Bone Year was such a fun read, and I absolutely cannot wait to return to Ashwell and find out what happens next! Bravo and what a fun ride!!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free copy of Bone Year. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I was not paid for this review.
Bone Year was such a unique and unexpected read! I absolutely loved the unusual battlefield healer concept, and it ended up being one of my favorite parts of the worldbuilding. Instead of another fantasy academy where everyone is simply learning how to kill people, Ashwell trains Healers and Veilguards to keep people alive. I thought that was such a refreshing change.
There is a LOT of worldbuilding here, including terminology, training, history, and plenty of mystery being established. There were definitely some stretches where I wanted the story to move a little faster, but the progression really paid off. Once the second half started pulling those threads together, I suddenly understood why so many details had been introduced earlier, and I became completely invested in seeing how everything would connect.
I also became incredibly invested in Maelis. She isn't perfect, and I loved that about her. She's not afraid to struggle, doubt herself, or make mistakes, but she keeps going anyway. She was incredibly easy to root for, and I found myself just as invested in her journey as I was in uncovering the mysteries surrounding Ashwell. There is clearly so much more going on than Maelis has been told, and I loved slowly realizing that alongside her.
And then the ending started answering questions... only to somehow give me EVEN MORE QUESTIONS.
And then...
“Welcome to the tenth floor, Miss Rose.”
HOW COULD YOU, ASHLEY?! 👀🫠
I NEED BOOK TWO. I need to know what happens next because that cliffhanger was absolutely brutal.
My biggest critique would probably be some of the loose ends. There were moments where I found myself thinking, “Wait... why aren't you asking about this right now?!” There were a few situations where I felt Maelis could have followed certain clues a little more directly, especially when she was already uncovering information that seemed like it could lead to more answers. I sometimes found myself questioning why she didn't dig deeper into certain mysteries when the opportunity presented itself. I think some of those choices made the story feel like it was holding back information that Maelis potentially could have uncovered sooner.
That said, those questions didn't take away from how much I enjoyed the story. If anything, they left me even more eager to see what gets answered in the next book. Bone Year was such a fun read, and I absolutely cannot wait to return to Ashwell and find out what happens next! Bravo and what a fun ride!!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free copy of Bone Year. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own, and I was not paid for this review.
September 3, 2026
Advanced Reader Copy Review
Bone Year was a bit of a slow start for me, although I’m honestly not sure whether that was the book itself or simply where my head was when I started reading. Once I had the chance to properly sit down and give it my attention, though, it became such an easy read! By those final chapters, I did not want to put it down.
The concept of a human attending a magical medicine academy and training to become a battlefield healer immediately intrigued me, and I really enjoyed the world Ashley created around it. The academy, the friendships Mae builds, the different magical beings and particularly the way medicine, anatomy and healing have been adapted to fit this world were all so interesting.
If anything, I wanted even more of it. I would have happily spent more time in the classes learning about the different creatures, their anatomy and how healing them differs. I don’t think not having that information took anything away from the story — I was simply fascinated by that part of the world and wanted to know more.
One of my favourite things about this book was the way information was revealed. There are questions and mysteries throughout, and Ashley gives you just enough to start forming theories without ever giving you enough to feel completely certain. I had plenty of moments where I thought I might have figured something out, only for another piece of information to make me question everything again.
The relationships and friendships were another highlight for me, and there were some surprisingly tender little moments amongst all the mystery and magic. The end of Chapter 28 and the meaning behind Poppy’s name was such a small detail, but it absolutely got me.
And then there were those final chapters.
I spent most of this book thinking I was reading a really enjoyable fantasy, but the ending completely elevated it for me. You finally start getting answers, only for those answers to leave you with even bigger questions. I reached the end genuinely thinking, no, you cannot possibly leave me there. I need MORE.
It’s also made me want to go back and reread the beginning knowing what I know now, just to see how many little clues I overlooked along the way.
A fascinating magical world, a wonderfully different take on medicine and healing, relationships I became genuinely invested in, and an ending that left me desperate for the next book. This has absolutely ended up amongst my favourite reads of the year so far.
Highly recommend.
Bone Year was a bit of a slow start for me, although I’m honestly not sure whether that was the book itself or simply where my head was when I started reading. Once I had the chance to properly sit down and give it my attention, though, it became such an easy read! By those final chapters, I did not want to put it down.
The concept of a human attending a magical medicine academy and training to become a battlefield healer immediately intrigued me, and I really enjoyed the world Ashley created around it. The academy, the friendships Mae builds, the different magical beings and particularly the way medicine, anatomy and healing have been adapted to fit this world were all so interesting.
If anything, I wanted even more of it. I would have happily spent more time in the classes learning about the different creatures, their anatomy and how healing them differs. I don’t think not having that information took anything away from the story — I was simply fascinated by that part of the world and wanted to know more.
One of my favourite things about this book was the way information was revealed. There are questions and mysteries throughout, and Ashley gives you just enough to start forming theories without ever giving you enough to feel completely certain. I had plenty of moments where I thought I might have figured something out, only for another piece of information to make me question everything again.
The relationships and friendships were another highlight for me, and there were some surprisingly tender little moments amongst all the mystery and magic. The end of Chapter 28 and the meaning behind Poppy’s name was such a small detail, but it absolutely got me.
And then there were those final chapters.
I spent most of this book thinking I was reading a really enjoyable fantasy, but the ending completely elevated it for me. You finally start getting answers, only for those answers to leave you with even bigger questions. I reached the end genuinely thinking, no, you cannot possibly leave me there. I need MORE.
It’s also made me want to go back and reread the beginning knowing what I know now, just to see how many little clues I overlooked along the way.
A fascinating magical world, a wonderfully different take on medicine and healing, relationships I became genuinely invested in, and an ending that left me desperate for the next book. This has absolutely ended up amongst my favourite reads of the year so far.
Highly recommend.
September 10, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🩸 BONE YEAR — by Ashley R. O’Donovan 🩸
Okay, I LOVED this book. Like… could-not-put-it-down loved it. 🖤
It’s giving fantasy Grey’s Anatomy, except our McDreamy comes with a healthy dose of McDangerous… and bat wings. 🫠🩸🦇
Ashwell Academy trains Veilguards—battlefield surgeons trying to save lives while surrounded by vampires, fae, shifters, angels, demons, twisted creatures and a whole lot of secrets. And I LOVE that Ashley doesn’t shy away from the medical side of it. We’re talking actual surgical terminology, blood, injuries and just enough gore to make this world feel real. 🩺⚔️
I connected with Maelis almost immediately. I love the way she thinks, her personality, her heart as a healer and especially the relationships she forms with the people around her. Some of her thoughts and fears surrounding death hit surprisingly close to home for me, and I’m genuinely curious to see where that part of her journey takes her—and maybe what I’ll take away from it too. 🖤
And then there’s Draven. 👀 Tall, broody, possessive-but-restrained, mysterious, those WINGS… excuse me. 🫠 The slow burn and tension were SO good, with just enough spice and payoff to leave me very satisfied with where things landed in book one. And if you’ve read it… the hunting blind. That’s all I’m saying. 😏🔥
The supporting characters were another huge win for me. I became genuinely attached to Maelis’s friends, her patients, Nestor, Jase, and all the relationships she builds along the way. There are some surprisingly emotional moments tucked into all the darkness, mystery and chaos. 🥺
And THE ANIMALS. You know I’m a sucker for the animals. 😂🐾
Also, POPPY. That’s it. That’s all you’re getting from me. 😂 If you’ve read it, YOU KNOW. If you haven’t… just wait. 🖤
The mystery was SO well done too. There were enough breadcrumbs for me to start forming theories, and I was feeling pretty good about some of them…
Then the ending happened.
I HAD AN IDEA. I THOUGHT I KNEW.
AND THEN THERE WAS MORE?!?! 😳😂
Ashley. MA’AM.
That cliffhanger?! I need book two. Like… now. Please and thank you. 😂🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — dark fantasy, brutal magical academy, medical gore, supernatural creatures, slow-burn tension, characters I actually cared about, mysteries on top of mysteries, and one very McDangerous vampire.
Yeah. This one got me. 🩸🦇🐾📚
🩸 BONE YEAR — by Ashley R. O’Donovan 🩸
Okay, I LOVED this book. Like… could-not-put-it-down loved it. 🖤
It’s giving fantasy Grey’s Anatomy, except our McDreamy comes with a healthy dose of McDangerous… and bat wings. 🫠🩸🦇
Ashwell Academy trains Veilguards—battlefield surgeons trying to save lives while surrounded by vampires, fae, shifters, angels, demons, twisted creatures and a whole lot of secrets. And I LOVE that Ashley doesn’t shy away from the medical side of it. We’re talking actual surgical terminology, blood, injuries and just enough gore to make this world feel real. 🩺⚔️
I connected with Maelis almost immediately. I love the way she thinks, her personality, her heart as a healer and especially the relationships she forms with the people around her. Some of her thoughts and fears surrounding death hit surprisingly close to home for me, and I’m genuinely curious to see where that part of her journey takes her—and maybe what I’ll take away from it too. 🖤
And then there’s Draven. 👀 Tall, broody, possessive-but-restrained, mysterious, those WINGS… excuse me. 🫠 The slow burn and tension were SO good, with just enough spice and payoff to leave me very satisfied with where things landed in book one. And if you’ve read it… the hunting blind. That’s all I’m saying. 😏🔥
The supporting characters were another huge win for me. I became genuinely attached to Maelis’s friends, her patients, Nestor, Jase, and all the relationships she builds along the way. There are some surprisingly emotional moments tucked into all the darkness, mystery and chaos. 🥺
And THE ANIMALS. You know I’m a sucker for the animals. 😂🐾
Also, POPPY. That’s it. That’s all you’re getting from me. 😂 If you’ve read it, YOU KNOW. If you haven’t… just wait. 🖤
The mystery was SO well done too. There were enough breadcrumbs for me to start forming theories, and I was feeling pretty good about some of them…
Then the ending happened.
I HAD AN IDEA. I THOUGHT I KNEW.
AND THEN THERE WAS MORE?!?! 😳😂
Ashley. MA’AM.
That cliffhanger?! I need book two. Like… now. Please and thank you. 😂🖤
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — dark fantasy, brutal magical academy, medical gore, supernatural creatures, slow-burn tension, characters I actually cared about, mysteries on top of mysteries, and one very McDangerous vampire.
Yeah. This one got me. 🩸🦇🐾📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author Ashley O’Donovan for the ARC
Maelis is a human healer, who is sent to a magic healer academy where she learns she’s not as human as they think, the world is going to shit, and the sexy vampire who’s always hanging around might be alright. The world is falling to the crazed creatures that come out of fissure cracks, and she might be more powerful and important than she was raised to believe.
Maelis is good, decent writing of the character with well written flaws of PTSD from her father’s death. Poppy is a great extension of her always coming through with the support when it’s needed to help her heal.
Draven is fine, I feel like we don’t really get to know a huge amount of his personality, but he’s got a well written mysterious vibe going on. The little hints of him being concerned, jealous and protective of her are spread through the story well.
The writing is mostly decent, structure and pace are good throughout, the magic system is well written and explained really well through one of the characters, rather than a boring info dump. Some of the dialogue is rather cringy and takes away from some of the seriousness of the story.
The premise of the story is really great, it was enjoyable to see a different side to an academy setting with them being primarily healers instead of fighters
The relationship of the main characters does need to be developed further and deepened; it comes across as a lack of chemistry between the two. Thers not enough curiosity of the other and not enough development of feelings from Maelis’ standpoint at least. One minutes he’s annoying and she’s hardly interacting with him, the next they are spilling secrets snuggled up in bed together and then we go back to them hardly speaking for weeks until they do some kissing.
There also needs to be a little more depth in the relationship with the friends, Lux and Ellavee. While they do some nice things together and commiserate at events they are all experiencing, there is a lack of foundation to the relationships that makes them feels surface level
I love Nella and Cael as side characters, they really add a good depth to the story that links in well with her trauma. Nella was important for Maelis in her grief and Cael was important to Maelis for her healing. Poppy is fun.
The storyline and plot were interesting and decently well developed. While the revelations at the end around what Maelis’ is, and who the other players are, were predictable it doesn’t take away from the engagement and drama of the story itself.
Looking forward to some deepening of the story in book two
Maelis is a human healer, who is sent to a magic healer academy where she learns she’s not as human as they think, the world is going to shit, and the sexy vampire who’s always hanging around might be alright. The world is falling to the crazed creatures that come out of fissure cracks, and she might be more powerful and important than she was raised to believe.
Maelis is good, decent writing of the character with well written flaws of PTSD from her father’s death. Poppy is a great extension of her always coming through with the support when it’s needed to help her heal.
Draven is fine, I feel like we don’t really get to know a huge amount of his personality, but he’s got a well written mysterious vibe going on. The little hints of him being concerned, jealous and protective of her are spread through the story well.
The writing is mostly decent, structure and pace are good throughout, the magic system is well written and explained really well through one of the characters, rather than a boring info dump. Some of the dialogue is rather cringy and takes away from some of the seriousness of the story.
The premise of the story is really great, it was enjoyable to see a different side to an academy setting with them being primarily healers instead of fighters
The relationship of the main characters does need to be developed further and deepened; it comes across as a lack of chemistry between the two. Thers not enough curiosity of the other and not enough development of feelings from Maelis’ standpoint at least. One minutes he’s annoying and she’s hardly interacting with him, the next they are spilling secrets snuggled up in bed together and then we go back to them hardly speaking for weeks until they do some kissing.
There also needs to be a little more depth in the relationship with the friends, Lux and Ellavee. While they do some nice things together and commiserate at events they are all experiencing, there is a lack of foundation to the relationships that makes them feels surface level
I love Nella and Cael as side characters, they really add a good depth to the story that links in well with her trauma. Nella was important for Maelis in her grief and Cael was important to Maelis for her healing. Poppy is fun.
The storyline and plot were interesting and decently well developed. While the revelations at the end around what Maelis’ is, and who the other players are, were predictable it doesn’t take away from the engagement and drama of the story itself.
Looking forward to some deepening of the story in book two
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2026
An unexpected read! I thought I knew a bit what I was going into reading this. I didn't, and in the best way!
Maelis, our FMC, is not perfect, she fucks up, does and says the wrong things, and that made me really like her. She has trauma, a mom who in my opinion could get a grip and a sister who is just there.
Jace, well I thought he was ok in the beginning, but when it all happened and she made one mistake, he completely turned on her and became a douchebag. I don't see her reasoning for understanding his side of that so much, I was pissed, but at him.
There are so many elements to this world, shifters, vampires, fae, angels even and the evil in the world are fissures with creatures who has infection in them. The school is magical, kinda sentient or something and it's very cool. The eleiodons (if I remember correctly) their animal bond is so much fun.
Her friends, Lux and Ellavee, are a big support and Ellavee grew on me during the book as I was sceptical at first.
There are some teachers I'm not too shure of and ghe headmaster I don't really like at all.
Nella and Cael broke my heart and I see now that I need to be more prepared in the next book.
The last 10 pages or something was just a complete shock. I'm going to need something for the whiplash of emotions back and forth! And the ending?
THE LAST SENTENCE?
No, just no. I need book two like right away please!
Thank you for the eARC and I sincerely hope to get the next one too because I cannot read it fast enough!
Maelis, our FMC, is not perfect, she fucks up, does and says the wrong things, and that made me really like her. She has trauma, a mom who in my opinion could get a grip and a sister who is just there.
Jace, well I thought he was ok in the beginning, but when it all happened and she made one mistake, he completely turned on her and became a douchebag. I don't see her reasoning for understanding his side of that so much, I was pissed, but at him.
There are so many elements to this world, shifters, vampires, fae, angels even and the evil in the world are fissures with creatures who has infection in them. The school is magical, kinda sentient or something and it's very cool. The eleiodons (if I remember correctly) their animal bond is so much fun.
Her friends, Lux and Ellavee, are a big support and Ellavee grew on me during the book as I was sceptical at first.
There are some teachers I'm not too shure of and ghe headmaster I don't really like at all.
Nella and Cael broke my heart and I see now that I need to be more prepared in the next book.
The last 10 pages or something was just a complete shock. I'm going to need something for the whiplash of emotions back and forth! And the ending?
THE LAST SENTENCE?
No, just no. I need book two like right away please!
Thank you for the eARC and I sincerely hope to get the next one too because I cannot read it fast enough!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 1, 2026
Bone Year has such an interesting concept, and I absolutely love the combination of dark academia, supernatural creatures, and a dangerous world where survival is never guaranteed! Maelis Rose is dealing with the loss of her father when she suddenly finds herself at Ashwell Academy, a place she never even applied to. Being human in a school filled with vampires, fae, shifters, angels, and demons definitely doesn't make things any easier for her. I really liked that Maelis isn't portrayed as someone who has everything figured out. She's grieving, struggling with her confidence, and trying to prove she belongs somewhere that seems determined to break her. And then there's Draven Alucard! A mysterious vampire who seems to have a problem with Maelis being at the academy but also can't seem to stay away when she's in danger. Their complicated dynamic adds another layer of tension to an already dangerous situation. One thing I found particularly interesting was the concept of the Veilguards. Instead of simply training warriors, Ashwell Academy prepares battlefield healers who have to save lives while fighting to survive themselves. That gives the academy setting a different twist. Between the deadly training, the mystery surrounding Maelis's bloodline, and the secrets everyone seems to be keeping, there is so much to uncover.
If you enjoy dark fantasy, supernatural academies, mysterious vampires, and slow-burn romantic tension, this is definitely one to check out!
If you enjoy dark fantasy, supernatural academies, mysterious vampires, and slow-burn romantic tension, this is definitely one to check out!
September 14, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ rounded to 5.
ARC Review 🪐
Read. It.
This is like a Grey’s Anatomy/Harry Potter/Teen Wolf vibes and I am absolutely here for it.
I knew within the first 10-20% that this book was going to be a top read of the year.
It’s very atmospheric, the world building is strong and you learn through the characters, not as random information dumps through out.
I loved the writing style, although at some points the dialogue did feel a little less mature than the age of the characters. This was infrequent and did not take away from the world or the characters.
Every character has its place within the book although I would have loved some more in depth time spent with Ellavee and Lux.
The relationship/breakdown with Jace was good, again I wish it was a little bit more fleshed out.
The two patients, Nella and Cael were perfect, literally no notes.
I did want more between Maelis and Draven. I understand that Draven is mysterious and minimal information is known about him but I would have loved to have had more of him throughout the book.
I am absolutely hooked. If this series isn’t 10 books long then it isn’t enough. I cannot wait for more of this world.
1000% recommend.
ARC Review 🪐
Read. It.
This is like a Grey’s Anatomy/Harry Potter/Teen Wolf vibes and I am absolutely here for it.
I knew within the first 10-20% that this book was going to be a top read of the year.
It’s very atmospheric, the world building is strong and you learn through the characters, not as random information dumps through out.
I loved the writing style, although at some points the dialogue did feel a little less mature than the age of the characters. This was infrequent and did not take away from the world or the characters.
Every character has its place within the book although I would have loved some more in depth time spent with Ellavee and Lux.
The relationship/breakdown with Jace was good, again I wish it was a little bit more fleshed out.
The two patients, Nella and Cael were perfect, literally no notes.
I did want more between Maelis and Draven. I understand that Draven is mysterious and minimal information is known about him but I would have loved to have had more of him throughout the book.
I am absolutely hooked. If this series isn’t 10 books long then it isn’t enough. I cannot wait for more of this world.
1000% recommend.
September 17, 2026
Thank you to author Ashley R. O’Donovan + RR Book Tours for gifting me a copy of Bone Year, a dark academia romantasy perfect for lovers of magical academies and slow burn romance! I absolutely loved reading this one; it has a similar academia vibe to Fourth Wing, so the story feels familiar yet still completely brand new. Maelis’ character is immediately likable and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing the growth that she had in the first year alone. I think the maturity that comes from being in her mid-20’s helps her to feel very well-rounded and relatable. Also, as someone with her own sweet fur baby named Poppy, you know I instantly fell in love with Maelis’ adorable eiodolon companion!
Her relationship with Draven is definitely that of a super slow burn and I am completely obsessed with it! Their chemistry and dynamic feels very natural for their characters; and after the shocking revelation we uncover at the end, you can tell the tension will truly start to amp up in the next book.
Her relationship with Draven is definitely that of a super slow burn and I am completely obsessed with it! Their chemistry and dynamic feels very natural for their characters; and after the shocking revelation we uncover at the end, you can tell the tension will truly start to amp up in the next book.
September 21, 2026
Blood, Bone, and Brutal Magic
Bone Year swept me into its world from page one. The blend of dark academia, medical magic, and looming danger creates a delicious tension, and Maelis’s journey hit me hard. She’s human in a school built to break even the strongest supernatural students, yet every shaky breath and trembling hand made her feel achingly real. The grief she carries, the pressure she’s under, and the secrets threaded through her blood kept me glued to the story.
Ashwell Academy is brutal, atmospheric, and alive in a way that feels almost sentient. The characters orbiting Maelis, especially Draven with his sharp edges and unreadable loyalty, add a dangerous pull to every chapter. The stakes are high, the creatures terrifying, and the mystery behind her summons is the kind of slow burn that tightens with every reveal.
I devoured this book. It’s emotional, immersive, and full of that breath holding tension I crave in romantasy. A phenomenal start to the series.
Bone Year swept me into its world from page one. The blend of dark academia, medical magic, and looming danger creates a delicious tension, and Maelis’s journey hit me hard. She’s human in a school built to break even the strongest supernatural students, yet every shaky breath and trembling hand made her feel achingly real. The grief she carries, the pressure she’s under, and the secrets threaded through her blood kept me glued to the story.
Ashwell Academy is brutal, atmospheric, and alive in a way that feels almost sentient. The characters orbiting Maelis, especially Draven with his sharp edges and unreadable loyalty, add a dangerous pull to every chapter. The stakes are high, the creatures terrifying, and the mystery behind her summons is the kind of slow burn that tightens with every reveal.
I devoured this book. It’s emotional, immersive, and full of that breath holding tension I crave in romantasy. A phenomenal start to the series.
September 19, 2026
This was the perfect read to start off my 'ber months reading! Magical academy, vampires, demons, magic, monsters, and animal eidolons that are either wolves, bats, or snakes!
I loved Maelis and Draven's story....because who doesn't love a morally gray vampire who is definitely hiding something?!
The story pulls on the heartstrings in so many different ways.
- Family drama and history - check
- Complicated best friend situation - check
- A healer who grows too invested with their patients - check
- Finding out the truth about her past - check
- Ending that creates more questions - check
I want a Poppy of my own! 😍😍I can't wait to find out what happens next for Maelis and Draven. So many questions are floating around and I NEED answers!
I loved Maelis and Draven's story....because who doesn't love a morally gray vampire who is definitely hiding something?!
The story pulls on the heartstrings in so many different ways.
- Family drama and history - check
- Complicated best friend situation - check
- A healer who grows too invested with their patients - check
- Finding out the truth about her past - check
- Ending that creates more questions - check
I want a Poppy of my own! 😍😍I can't wait to find out what happens next for Maelis and Draven. So many questions are floating around and I NEED answers!
September 28, 2026
This books was an absolute page turner.There is a lot of information at first but it's written and explained so well that you don't have to turn the pages to what something was.
Academy setting, all kind of creatures and magic system.
Honestly this book was so unique. I've never read a book with academy for healers.
Maelis is a human accepted in Ashwell Academy. She's been trained by her father to be a healer her whole life and when she's summoned to attend the school she never applied to her whole life turna upside down.
The love story was captivating and I loved the deliciously slow burn.
The ending left me speechless and I can't wait to see what will happen in book 2.
Academy setting, all kind of creatures and magic system.
Honestly this book was so unique. I've never read a book with academy for healers.
Maelis is a human accepted in Ashwell Academy. She's been trained by her father to be a healer her whole life and when she's summoned to attend the school she never applied to her whole life turna upside down.
The love story was captivating and I loved the deliciously slow burn.
The ending left me speechless and I can't wait to see what will happen in book 2.
September 10, 2026
*I read this as an ARC*
Ashley has done it again! This is the 3rd book that I’ve ARC read for this author, and I gotta say, I wasn’t disappointed. I especially love that the story was authentic and original - not something that had been done before. We get action, we get yearning, we get tension, and the twist left me tapping my fingers wondering what I did to deserve being left on the edge. It was an easy read that had me captivated at page one.
Ashley has done it again! This is the 3rd book that I’ve ARC read for this author, and I gotta say, I wasn’t disappointed. I especially love that the story was authentic and original - not something that had been done before. We get action, we get yearning, we get tension, and the twist left me tapping my fingers wondering what I did to deserve being left on the edge. It was an easy read that had me captivated at page one.
September 19, 2026
I feel like there was a lot going on with this one and I loved the unique magic system- magic currents.
I loved the yearning and angst with Maelis and Draven and can’t wait for it to really pop off more in book 2. I always love a one bed moment.
The found family and dark academia were top tier in this and all around perfect introduction to this series! I immediately started scouring the internet for book 2 release dates as soon as I finished at 1am!!
I loved the yearning and angst with Maelis and Draven and can’t wait for it to really pop off more in book 2. I always love a one bed moment.
The found family and dark academia were top tier in this and all around perfect introduction to this series! I immediately started scouring the internet for book 2 release dates as soon as I finished at 1am!!
September 10, 2026
thank you to the author for an early review copy!
OHMYGOD THIS BOOK!
I could not put it down or stop thinking about it - I devoured the first 50% in one sitting during a ~3 hour bus ride & finished it in another sitting during a ~3 hour train ride!
From page one the pacing was fast, the world building drew me in and I LOVED the characters!
Maelis is a human healer in a world full of magical beings, angels, demons, shifters, fae, mages, and has lived her whole life in a small (mostly) human village. Terrifying creatures, corruption & dark currents escape through tears in the realm and Maelis finds herself pulled into this chaos after she's mysteriously accepted to the magical academy for the world's best healers, after not applying.
The book has a mix of dark academia, hidden origins, animal companions, of course brooding MMCs and so much more!
and that cliff hanger ending? Ms. Ashley I NEED BOOK 2 ASAP!!!! because that is just C R U E L!!!
I highly highly recommend this book & I will absolutely be continuing the series!!
OHMYGOD THIS BOOK!
I could not put it down or stop thinking about it - I devoured the first 50% in one sitting during a ~3 hour bus ride & finished it in another sitting during a ~3 hour train ride!
From page one the pacing was fast, the world building drew me in and I LOVED the characters!
Maelis is a human healer in a world full of magical beings, angels, demons, shifters, fae, mages, and has lived her whole life in a small (mostly) human village. Terrifying creatures, corruption & dark currents escape through tears in the realm and Maelis finds herself pulled into this chaos after she's mysteriously accepted to the magical academy for the world's best healers, after not applying.
The book has a mix of dark academia, hidden origins, animal companions, of course brooding MMCs and so much more!
and that cliff hanger ending? Ms. Ashley I NEED BOOK 2 ASAP!!!! because that is just C R U E L!!!
I highly highly recommend this book & I will absolutely be continuing the series!!
September 16, 2026
If I could give this 10 stars, I absolutely would
September 21, 2026
4,5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
September 30, 2026
What even was that ending. I have no idea who she should be trusting. I need her to talk to her mom and get answers
October 13, 2026
This was good but I expecting it to be amazing based on reviews. Could have used some more action and dare I say a dash more yearning.
September 24, 2026
How does she keep doing this, honestly???
Her duology, the Demon and the Savior, is officially one of my all-time favorite duologies. And now this new series is shaping up to be one of my favorite series. Like, how???
The way she develops plot is just so unique. Sure, you think you know what you know but do you really know what you think you know?? Who's to say????
The *big* twist at the end didn't feel super big for me, but if I've learned anything about Ashley O'Donovan, something much, much bigger is coming that I am not prepared for at all. And I. Can't. Wait.
Her duology, the Demon and the Savior, is officially one of my all-time favorite duologies. And now this new series is shaping up to be one of my favorite series. Like, how???
The way she develops plot is just so unique. Sure, you think you know what you know but do you really know what you think you know?? Who's to say????
The *big* twist at the end didn't feel super big for me, but if I've learned anything about Ashley O'Donovan, something much, much bigger is coming that I am not prepared for at all. And I. Can't. Wait.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First of all I would like to thank the author for gifting me this ARC.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Bone Year by Ashley R. O’Donovan is a fantastic new dark academia romantasy that completely pulled me into its world. Give me a mysterious academy, vampires, fae, shifters, angels, demons, battlefield surgeons, forbidden secrets and a morally complicated vampire… and I’m sold. 🖤
Ashwell Academy trains Veilguards healers who become battlefield surgeons, learning to save lives while surrounded by war and death. The academy itself is brutal, mysterious and packed with secrets, and I loved following Maelis Rose as she tries to find her place in a school where she is immediately seen as weak and disposable.
What really hooked me, though, was the mystery surrounding why Maelis was summoned to Ashwell in the first place and what exactly is in her blood. There’s so much we don’t know, and I loved slowly uncovering the pieces alongside her. You become so invested in Maelis’s journey through the maze of this mysterious academy, especially as she begins to realise that there is far more to her story than she ever imagined.
And then we have Draven Alucard. 🖤 A secretive, protective vampire who knows far more than he lets on. He pushes Maelis, frustrates her, tells her she doesn’t belong and yet somehow always seems to be there when she needs him most. There is clearly so much more going on beneath the surface with him, and I am VERY interested in finding out what those secrets are.
One of my favourite elements was the Eidolons. Each healer is given one that can help and protect them, while also reflecting their strengths and potentially hinting at their future. Maelis’s Eidolon, Poppy, was such a wonderful addition to the story. She brings a much needed sense of fun and lightness to Maelis’s otherwise dark and dangerous journey. 🥹
This is very much a first book in a series, and there is a LOT of world building and new terminology to take in. But honestly, I enjoyed it. There is clearly a much bigger world and mythology being established here, and I think all that groundwork is going to pay off in the books to come.
And that ending?! 😳 Absolutely shocking. Just when I thought I had some idea of where things were heading, everything shifted, and now I desperately need the next book.
If you love dark academia, romantasy, supernatural academies, vampires, mysterious powers, slow-burn tension, secret identities and a heroine who is about to discover that she is far more important than she realises, definitely add this one to your TBR.
I’m officially invested in Maelis, Draven, Poppy and whatever secrets Ashwell Academy is hiding. 🖤
A dead healer saves no one… but I need this healer to survive long enough for book two.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 4.5/5
Bone Year by Ashley R. O’Donovan is a fantastic new dark academia romantasy that completely pulled me into its world. Give me a mysterious academy, vampires, fae, shifters, angels, demons, battlefield surgeons, forbidden secrets and a morally complicated vampire… and I’m sold. 🖤
Ashwell Academy trains Veilguards healers who become battlefield surgeons, learning to save lives while surrounded by war and death. The academy itself is brutal, mysterious and packed with secrets, and I loved following Maelis Rose as she tries to find her place in a school where she is immediately seen as weak and disposable.
What really hooked me, though, was the mystery surrounding why Maelis was summoned to Ashwell in the first place and what exactly is in her blood. There’s so much we don’t know, and I loved slowly uncovering the pieces alongside her. You become so invested in Maelis’s journey through the maze of this mysterious academy, especially as she begins to realise that there is far more to her story than she ever imagined.
And then we have Draven Alucard. 🖤 A secretive, protective vampire who knows far more than he lets on. He pushes Maelis, frustrates her, tells her she doesn’t belong and yet somehow always seems to be there when she needs him most. There is clearly so much more going on beneath the surface with him, and I am VERY interested in finding out what those secrets are.
One of my favourite elements was the Eidolons. Each healer is given one that can help and protect them, while also reflecting their strengths and potentially hinting at their future. Maelis’s Eidolon, Poppy, was such a wonderful addition to the story. She brings a much needed sense of fun and lightness to Maelis’s otherwise dark and dangerous journey. 🥹
This is very much a first book in a series, and there is a LOT of world building and new terminology to take in. But honestly, I enjoyed it. There is clearly a much bigger world and mythology being established here, and I think all that groundwork is going to pay off in the books to come.
And that ending?! 😳 Absolutely shocking. Just when I thought I had some idea of where things were heading, everything shifted, and now I desperately need the next book.
If you love dark academia, romantasy, supernatural academies, vampires, mysterious powers, slow-burn tension, secret identities and a heroine who is about to discover that she is far more important than she realises, definitely add this one to your TBR.
I’m officially invested in Maelis, Draven, Poppy and whatever secrets Ashwell Academy is hiding. 🖤
A dead healer saves no one… but I need this healer to survive long enough for book two.
September 12, 2026
I easily blasted through this one! Give me an academy setting, enemies-to-lovers, and plenty of magic and mystery to keep me intrigued, and you have my full attention.
Maelis believes her deceased father submitted her enrollment to the prestigious and mystical Ashwell Academy to train as a battlefield surgeon. With a war raging and still dealing with the trauma of her father’s death, she hesitantly accepts the enrollment. The kicker? She’s the first-ever human to be admitted, and this academy is filled with vampires, shifters, angels, and more. And although she has her childhood best friend and angel, Jace, by her side, she still has to deal with some very dangerous characters, including Draven Alucard, a vampire with blood on his hands who is incapable of looking at her without a searing glare. But there’s a much larger mystery to uncover surrounding her unremarkable human lineage and why she was truly brought to the academy in the first place.
There was honestly so much going for this book! I loved how the author built such a vast world without sacrificing the pacing. There are plenty of questions left unanswered to keep you invested throughout the series, making this a solid first book.
I especially appreciated the relationships Maelis developed throughout the story and how they not only moved the series’ plot along but also played an important role in her character development.
There were definitely times when I wanted to shake Maelis over some of her choices, but I’m hopeful she learned some big lessons. The BEST part, though? The animal companionship! Poppy, the raccoon eidolon assigned to Maelis, was an absolute show-stealer! And, of course, Poppy comes with her own bag of mysteries to uncover.
Overall, I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoys academy fantasy, a vast array of mythical creatures coexisting, plenty of mysteries to unravel, and a dash of romance!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Maelis believes her deceased father submitted her enrollment to the prestigious and mystical Ashwell Academy to train as a battlefield surgeon. With a war raging and still dealing with the trauma of her father’s death, she hesitantly accepts the enrollment. The kicker? She’s the first-ever human to be admitted, and this academy is filled with vampires, shifters, angels, and more. And although she has her childhood best friend and angel, Jace, by her side, she still has to deal with some very dangerous characters, including Draven Alucard, a vampire with blood on his hands who is incapable of looking at her without a searing glare. But there’s a much larger mystery to uncover surrounding her unremarkable human lineage and why she was truly brought to the academy in the first place.
There was honestly so much going for this book! I loved how the author built such a vast world without sacrificing the pacing. There are plenty of questions left unanswered to keep you invested throughout the series, making this a solid first book.
I especially appreciated the relationships Maelis developed throughout the story and how they not only moved the series’ plot along but also played an important role in her character development.
There were definitely times when I wanted to shake Maelis over some of her choices, but I’m hopeful she learned some big lessons. The BEST part, though? The animal companionship! Poppy, the raccoon eidolon assigned to Maelis, was an absolute show-stealer! And, of course, Poppy comes with her own bag of mysteries to uncover.
Overall, I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoys academy fantasy, a vast array of mythical creatures coexisting, plenty of mysteries to unravel, and a dash of romance!
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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