Tame Me: Hunt: A dark academy romantasy with fated mates

by Lesi Filebert

My hands are both my greatest gift… and the reason I lost everything.
They got me locked away for years. They scared off every warden who ever tried to work with me. And now? They’ve landed me in a partnership with the one person I should absolutely avoid.
He’s brilliant. Arrogant. Painfully aware of it.
One look from him gets under my skin—and if he looks too closely, he might uncover the truth I’ve spent years burying.
But fate doesn’t care about comfort.
Because together, we’ve been pulled into a series of strange, escalating incidents—cases that
don’t make sense, rules that no longer apply… and something far worse lurking beneath it all.
Magic is breaking.
Or maybe it’s already gone.
Magical academy
Sharp humor & biting banter
Magic, intrigue & high-stakes confrontations
A supernatural detective mystery
A dash of chaos
A story about identity and choice—about the many faces of darkness, and the fragile, fierce love that can survive it.

Welcome to the Armarillis universe. "Tame Me: Hunt" is the beginning of Calypso and Lorelei's story, and yes, it ends on a cliffhanger. But don't panic! The entire series has already been written and is being released at a fast pace. You won't have to wait long before you can get your hands on the next book.

Genres: Fantasy, Dark Academia, Romance

330 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 8, 2026

Reviews

[Stefanie Verhelst · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a character driven story, with very inter zing and intriguing personalities.

Reading this book is travelling along side the characters and following them on an adventure of emotions.

Chemistry is hanging in the air, it’s masterfully brought little by little, but just enough to keep you investigated as a reader.

This is certainly a very strong first installment of a series. Wondering what ‘s next….

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Brita Mackay · Rating 4 out of 5]

My hands are both my greatest gift… and the reason I lost everything.
They got me locked away for years. They scared off every warden who ever tried to work with me. And now? They’ve landed me in a partnership with the one person I should absolutely avoid.
He’s brilliant. Arrogant. Painfully aware of it.
One look from him gets under my skin—and if he looks too closely, he might uncover the truth I’ve spent years burying.
But fate doesn’t care about comfort.
Because together, we’ve been pulled into a series of strange, escalating incidents—cases that
don’t make sense, rules that no longer apply… and something far worse lurking beneath it all.
Magic is breaking.
Or maybe it’s already gone.
Magical academy
Sharp humor & biting banter
Magic, intrigue & high-stakes confrontations
A supernatural detective mystery
A dash of chaos
A story about identity and choice—about the many faces of darkness, and the fragile, fierce love that can survive it.

YOUR MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS!!! Please read and pay close attention to the trigger warnings at the beginning of this book. Some content and scenes may not suit all readers and could be triggering for others. Remember, your mental health comes first. Reader discretion is advised. Intended for readers 18+.

Triggers include but are not limited to: Detailed Descriptions of Ritualistic Murder, Graphic Crime Scenes, and Body Horror (Including Removal of Internal Organs and Carved Runes), Ritualistic Burning of Human Remains, Graphic and Violent Combat Encounters with Demonic Creatures (Kernels) Involving Venom, Claws, and Severe Physical Injuries, Off-screen References to the Violent Death and Dismemberment of a Family Member, Graphic, Detailed Depictions of Explicit Sexual Acts, Including Oral Sex, Elements of Rough Sex, Including Biting, Scratching, Intense Dominance/Submission Dynamics, and Commanding Language, Depictions of Light Bondage (Characters being Restrained/Tied to a Bed), Risk of Public Discovery During Intimate Acts (Encounters in Academy Corridors), Explicit Sexual Games Using Magical Artifacts in Semi-Public Settings (Classroom Environment), Terminal Illness/Magic-Induced Physical Decay, with a Strict Timeline of Limited Remaining Lifespan, Mind Manipulation, Forced Memory Blocking (Oblivion Magic used Without Consent), and Hypnotic Persuasion, Themes of Extreme Social Isolation, Confinement, and Deprivation During Childhood Due to Dangerous Magical Abilities, Forced Proximity, Extreme Lack of Privacy, and Mandatory Constant Surveillance (Including Shared Spaces without Functional Door Locks), Intense Fear of Causing Accidental Death or Harm Through Physical Touch, Frequent Use of Strong and Explicit Language (profanity), Dark, High-Fantasy Elements Featuring Frightening Monster/Demon Archetypes.

Tropes: Opposites Attract, Enemies-to-Lovers, Grumpy × Grumpy/Clashing Personalities, Banter and Romantic Tension, Secrets Between Lovers, Slow-Burn Romance, Dangerous Magical Powers, Feared for Her Powers, Mysterious Past, Unstable Magic/Magic Is Failing, Supernatural Investigation, Hidden Darkness, High-Stakes Magical Confrontations, Rules Are Breaking, Traumatized FMC, Misunderstood FMC Arrogant/Brilliant MMC, Identity and Self-Discovery, Learning to Trust, Love Against the Odds, Unlikely Detective Duo, Uncovering a Conspiracy, Escalating Threat, Nothing Is as It Seems, Fated Mates, Dark Academia, Magical Academy, Forced Proximity, Reluctant Partners-to-Lovers, Supernatural Mystery, Dangerous Powers, Hidden Secrets, Sharp Banter, Fate vs. Free Will, Arrogant MMC, Guarded FMC

Tame Me: Hunt is the 1st book in the Armarillis Universe, A Dark Academy Romantasy with Fated Mates by Lesi Filebert. Welcome to the Armarillis universe. "Tame Me: Hunt" begins Calypso and Lorelei's story, and yes, it ends on a cliffhanger. But don't panic! The entire series is already written and being released at a fast pace. You won't have to wait long to get your hands on the next book.

Tame Me: Hunt by Lesi Filebert is the 1st book in the Armarillis Universe. This dark academy features Fated Mates. In my opinion, this character-driven story has not only interesting characters but is also very original.

You'll be right alongside them on their emotional journey. The author builds a strong atmosphere of chemistry, developing it gradually as the book progresses and drawing the reader in. In my opinion, this is the perfect starting point for a series, and I can't wait to see what happens next.

I was actually pleased with this book. At first, I didn't think I'd enjoy it based on the first few chapters, but the characters and the magic kept me interested. Like a moth to a flame, I could never get enough of Lorelei and Calypso; they were the perfect couple. Even though they had a difficult history, they always seemed to draw each other back together, like two runaway trains.

Lorelei is afraid of power and shy, while Calypso is self-confident and doesn't apologize. He always makes Lorelei see just how amazing she is. I adored how Calypso consistently supported Lorelei, and that support is why I fell completely in love with him. Calypso was intense in all that he did. When Lorelei and Calypso finally confessed their true feelings, a real spark ignited between them.

Even though there were only a handful of passionate scenes, they really raised the temperature. I really enjoyed how Lesi explained how magic functions in battle, as well as for defense and healing. I also liked Lesi's description of how light and dark magic work; dark magic wasn't shown as evil or limited to bad uses. This added another dimension of ambiguity. It made me wonder how the story will explore this further, especially with magic's sudden disappearance.

I honestly can't wait to find out more about Lorelei and Calypso's adventures. I'm sure many events will stay fresh in my mind and that many of the characters will not just fade away. After everything that took place in the last three chapters, I'm really looking forward to seeing how book two begins.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story about identity and choice—about the many faces of darkness, and the fragile, fierce love that can survive it.

This is the first in a new series; we learn about the unique magic system. Lorelei (Lori) has been told that she is “defective” her whole life because her touch is dangerous to others, and she must wear protective gloves. Lori has been sheltered from the world until she is accepted to the academy. Our MMC, Calypso, has taken Lorelei as his ward and tries to help train her and explore the pull that he has toward her. This book has satisfying banter, supernatural ongoings, forced proximity, and a touch of a Cinderella moment!

I can’t wait for the next book! I can see this series being on my physical shelf!

[Marion Löw · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lorelei and Calypso

I thoroughly enjoyed this New Adult fantasy romance mystery set in an elite academy in a magical world filled with all kinds of magic and a strict hierarchy of the best of the best. The plot is very well written, intriguing, and full of action, suspense, danger, magic, emotions, humorous moments, a touch of spice, and a whole host of likable and fascinating characters. I really liked the protagonists. Lorelei is strong and open, but also cautious and insecure because of her “defect.” Calypso is the exact opposite: he’s fierce, arrogant, and a daredevil. I really liked the banter and chemistry between them and thought they complemented each other perfectly.
The book ends with a cliffhanger that caught me a little off guard, so I’m really looking forward to the next installment.

The story centers on Lorelei, the daughter of the First Arma (the greatest warrior couple), who possesses a special gift that is also her curse. Instead of being able to heal with her hands, they are also unintentionally a dangerous weapon capable of causing destruction. That’s why she has been homeschooled until now and wears gloves for safety. But now she’s entering the elite Armarillis Academy, where she’s assigned a special warden to look after her. However, her new guardian turns out to be Calypso, her secret crush, with whom she spent a steamy night incognito and whose memory she erased afterward. Calypso is the cocky, self-assured son of the Academy’s mentor, who excels in all areas of magic and challenges her.
When the realm is attacked by unknown forces, they manage to pool their magical powers through a magical bond and rescue their classmates, and themselves, from the dangerous situation.
Calypso soon realizes that he and Lorelei are an unbeatable team, and as his memories return, they grow closer. But the danger is far from over…

All in all, a very entertaining fantasy romance with very likable main and supporting characters, magic, action, suspense, heart, humor, and light heat, that I’m happy to recommend.

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Beckreadz25 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

This book was surprisingly delightful. I wasn't sure after the first couple chapters if I was going to enjoy it, but the characters and the nagic drew me in.

Like a moth to the flame, I was mesmerized by Lorelei and Calypso. Their characters perfectly complimented one another. Despite their rocky history, they gravitate towards one another like runaway trains. Where Lorelei is timid and scared of power, Calypso is unapologetically confident. He never ceases to let Lorelai know how strong and special she is. His unwavering faith in her made me swoon.

Calypso was intense and fierce in every aspect. When he and Lorelei finally confronted their feelings, sparks and electricity flew. There weren't many spicy scenes, but when they happened they broke the thermostat. 🌶🌶🌶

The magic system was so unique, and the details to which the author showed how the magic was used not just in battle but for protection and healing was amazing. My favorite part was the breakdown of light and dark magic. The dark magic was not portrayed as inherently evil or to be used for nefarious purposes, and I liked that shade of grey. It makes me wonder if this is going to come into play more with the random acts of disappearing magic.

I can honestly say that I can't wait for Calypso and Lorelei's story to continue. I know that certain I instances won't be forgotten, and certain people won't go quietly into the night. After everything that went down in the last 3 chapters, I am dying to see where book 2 picks up.

[Crystal0503 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast pace delightful read.

I enjoyed the magic system the way dark magic isn't necessarily nefarious and can be seen as gray, I also loved how they could do so much fundamentally with their magic. Following the story of Lorelei and how she comes to Armarillis Academy looking for a new mentor since she doesn't have the ability to attend classes like the regular students, she believes she will be training with Calypso to find she is to pass his trials to prove herself worthy. What Lori must consider is what if she losses control of her magic is it a trick, can she afford to take such a risk when she just arrived?
Drawn to each other like moths to flames the two begin working together their banter draws us in. It would appear they may have more connection than just mentor and mentee, even with their complicated pasts and Lori's magical complexities it seems that they have a bond marking them as potential battle partners. A battle partner in a Fortemin's life can never be changed each will only have one.
As dead bodies and dead zones mount up the perils of what lie ahead become daunting, it also becomes clear that the two must foster their bond in order to save others. Will a girl who was deemed a danger to everyone be someone that once she found the right person to help her and offer her confidence be the person to come back and help save the people around her?

[Steph · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 (3.5)

Overall I enjoyed the story for the most part and you can see that the author and this story/series has great potential.

I enjoyed the magic system and world-building aspects that were explored as well as the two main characters. I do wish they MCs were explored at a deeper level, we only got a glimpse of them a bit deeper towards the latter part of the book, it was all surface level and relied on an underlying attraction and mystery surrounding a past interaction for most of the book, along with some spicy scenes. Their banter while fun didn’t allow for aa deeper insight into who they were deep down more personally.

It is clear the author has the potential for creative writing and storylines, but I felt it did miss the mark in expressing certain aspects clearly. Verbalizing scenes and emotions were less mature, and the tone and language came across young.

I am intrigued enough with the storyline to continue with the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Darryl Evans · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed my first book by this author.
The world building was gradual and built alongside the characters' development and exploration of the Academy where Lori our FMC is sent to have her seemingley untamable and unstable dark magic looked at by the unconventional and stubborn Calypso (our MMC) who will act as her mentor.
While a past encounter interferes with their progress in the here and now, some political factions are brought into the mix from magical and non-magical alike as they soon need to work together. Dead bodies and magical dead zones mount up.
Just as Lori and Calypso seem to be making progress...
a nail biting cliff hanger for the second book.

I cannot wait for the next installment

[Carole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tame Me: Hunt is a Fantasy inspired Contemporary romance whose lead protagonist Lorelei has just arrived with her brother to the prestigious Armarillis Academy.
Unfortunately for FMC Lora she holds a dangerous and powerful gift that kept her locked away for many years. Now finally free she still has to be watched over by a warden, the brilliant and arrogant Calypso.
A magical academy, humor, magic, secrets, mystery, fated mates, and events that spiral into a even deeper well of supernatural chaos graces the page with it’s nice writing, intriguing characters, drama and action that will keep a reader inspired up to the cliffhanger ending, and wanting the next installment as soon as possible.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[MoonWillowArchives · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book! I liked Lorelei and thought her magic was really interesting, especially with how much she struggles to control it and what could happen if she doesn't. Calypso was probably my favorite. He's cocky, a little full of himself, but I loved him anyway lol. I really liked the relationship between the two of them and their banter. There was magic, mystery, and things happening that kept me wanting to read more. I would have liked to know a little more about some of the other characters! Overall, I really liked the story, and I'm interested to see where it goes. Especially after that ending 🙃.

[Nicolien Heslinga · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely dark romantasy in an academy setting. The fmc Lorelei has a lot of power but struggles with her control and where nobody has been able to help her, the mmc Calypso seems to be able to. He takes her on as his ward and during a training gone wrong discovers that Lorelei is the woman he has been searching for the past year. Magical dead zones are suddenly happening and there seems to be real danger coming. The book ends with a cliffhanger and I'm really excited for the rest of the story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nikee P · Rating 4 out of 5]

Small spoiler alert:

I found Lorelei's powers, which can grant both life and death, intriguing, especially because they are 'defective'. I thought Calypso and Lorelei's humor was a nice touch. For me, there was just the right amount of focus on magic, action, and mystery. What I personally found a shame was that Calypso and Lorelei are portrayed as very special and strong, while none of the other characters were that strong or special. The same goes somewhat for their parents. It is always cool when there are a few more side characters who are also relevant to the story.

[Annette Pena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so engrossed in this book that I hit the end and didn't realize it until I turned the page and saw the thank you for reading statement. Then I said a word that I can't type out and started looking for the next book. The world the author created is so engrossing that I lost all time while reading. I finished the book quickly and I am so sad that I'm done! When Calypso was interacting with Zael at the cemetery, I laughed out loud and wished I could be there to witness it in person. Lori is the daughter of Zael and the love interest of Calypso and the story is about Lori and getting her magic controlled. I LOVED this book so much and truly cannot wait until the next one comes out. If you like fantasy wrapped up in magic with a little spice added, you will LOVE this book as well!

[Jennifer Loschiavo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the build up of suspense and mystery in this. It kept you wanting more throughout the whole journey. I was searching for more depth from the characters. I also felt myself craving more from the magic system but, i have to ask myself is that because i am used to fantasy or is it the book? Therefore, i am not taking that into high regard in this review.

[Даниела Цветанова · Rating 5 out of 5]

A captivating book I really enjoyed it! A wonderful book that stands out in the fantasy and dark fiction genres. I liked the character development and the trials they go through. I’d compare it to *Fourth Wing* and *Dragon's Betrayal*. I really liked it—it's well worth reading!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pulled me in in the first chapter and never let me go. Detailed well written story full of twists and turns to keep this a real age turner story. Multi layered characters. Secrets, drama, suspense throughout the book to keep it interesting. Loved every minute of this book!!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Teddi Edge · Rating 5 out of 5]

Our MMC tries to train our lethal touch FMC. The banter between these two is so good. She is sent to an academy and the world has a cool magic system. The sparks continuously fly. This surprised me with how much I enjoyed it and I can’t wait for more!!!

[Rita Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Calypso & Lori so much! This story is full of action, twists and turns, magical elements, friendships, and a slow-burn romantasy worth waiting for. Tame Me: Hunt keeps you on your toes, is a real page turner, and leaves you wanting more. I read it in one day and I need book two now! Lori and Calypso are on this journey of self-discovery and recognizing where their strengths lie. We get a small taste of the level and strength of their magic and I am excited to see where their story goes and how it will all unfold. If you enjoy slow-burn romances, forced proximity, friends to lovers, a little spice, dark academia, and adventure, then this book is for you!

[Daria Shcherbakova · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a perfect mix of action and humor. It has a great overall plot, a well-developed world with clear rules and history, and tons of unexpected plot twists. A vibrant love story. I highly recommend it!

[Radostina Kudinova · Rating 5 out of 5]

The writing style and dialogue were a little strange, and I constantly found myself confused about who was speaking and what exactly was being said. The beginning of the book also felt like I was starting in the middle of a chapter — I genuinely felt like I was missing some pages.

I was also a little confused about how the magic works. The black magic is supposed to be bad, but it’s also good; they’re not supposed to use it because it might turn them evil, but they use it anyway…

But these are all minor issues compared to how much I loved the book overall, because I absolutely adored it. The story is interesting and fast-paced, and the characters are smart and constantly growing and improving themselves. I really enjoyed their conversations — they were emotional, with just the right amount of banter.

I think this is my first friends-to-lovers book, and I absolutely loved it. I can’t wait for the second one!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Pamela Rodriguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ The premise of this story is actually pretty good and may be worth the read for you and I feel ok with marking the star rating at a 4. The writing is where I was having difficulty getting into the story. Starting the story, you’re just put into the story. It made me feel like I was thrown into the middle of the story or I was missing a few chapters. I will say after the 2nd chapter you do start to get small bits of backstory here and there. The dialogue, to me, was a little juvenile and repetitive at times. A lot of exclamation points and ellipsis (…). The way the author wrote dialogue when they wanted to draw out a word confused my brain because I was reading it as a stutter. Instead of writing “yesss” they would write it as “ye-e-ss” for example.

[VITALY GOLDSHTEYN · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really great introduction to a universe I can't wait to explore more. The dynamic between the characters is fantastic, and their banter is lovely. I also loved the side characters—they’re so well-written I’d love to read whole stories just about them. On top of that, the plot moves at a great pace, and the non-linear timeline keeps things really interesting. Waiting for the next installment.

[Nikki Clark · Rating 4 out of 5]

The magic and storyline pulled me in from the start. The FMC is strong and capable but terrified of her dark magic and killing someone again. The way the MMC helped her control and use her dark magic was great to read. The MMC comes off so cocky but you can’t help but to love him and the bond he forms with Lori as he calls her. I can’t wait to see how they grow and what happens next in the story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Natasha DeMeow · Rating 2.75 out of 5]

This might have been an interesting story, but unfortunately I couldn’t get past the rough writing. Not sure if it was AI but hard to read and distracting.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elise Theel · Rating 2.5 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book but the writing felt so off.