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Valmora Academy #1
Malachite
Malachite
is the start of a dark academia romantasy series that gives you enemies-to-lovers, slow-burn, elemental powers, forced proximity, found family and the perfect amount of spice...
Malachite. Opal. Agate.
Three stones, three powers, three magical units.
Choose your unit ... and hope that it chooses you back.
Arianell Nocthare has been waiting her whole life to enter the prestigious Valmora Academy, where students prepare for war by honing their elemental magic in one of three units. But there are two problems facing Aria on the night of her initiation ceremony. Firstly, her family has been cast into disgrace after her brother was executed for allegedly killing four students in an attempt at dark magic. Secondly, so far Aria has been unable to summon any magic - and being magic-less in an academy where everyone wants to spill your blood is a dangerous game. How will she enter the unit of her choosing and survive without a scrap of power?
Facing blatant scorn from every angle, especially from her brother's best friend (the tall dark and lethally handsome, Sebastian) Aria is determined to clear her brother's name and seek justice for his death. Forging a tentative and fraught relationship with Sebastian, she begins to uncover some terrifying truths about the academy. And a revelation about Aria's power throws her world into chaos...
Malachite. Opal. Agate.
Three stones, three powers, three magical units.
Choose your unit ... and hope that it chooses you back.
Arianell Nocthare has been waiting her whole life to enter the prestigious Valmora Academy, where students prepare for war by honing their elemental magic in one of three units. But there are two problems facing Aria on the night of her initiation ceremony. Firstly, her family has been cast into disgrace after her brother was executed for allegedly killing four students in an attempt at dark magic. Secondly, so far Aria has been unable to summon any magic - and being magic-less in an academy where everyone wants to spill your blood is a dangerous game. How will she enter the unit of her choosing and survive without a scrap of power?
Facing blatant scorn from every angle, especially from her brother's best friend (the tall dark and lethally handsome, Sebastian) Aria is determined to clear her brother's name and seek justice for his death. Forging a tentative and fraught relationship with Sebastian, she begins to uncover some terrifying truths about the academy. And a revelation about Aria's power throws her world into chaos...
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Published May 26, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5!
Anyone follow ash_reads on instagram? Well she's great & now this is her debut and I am 100% ready for it.
Three stones, three powers, three magical units. You choose your unit and you hope it chooses you back. At the prestigious Valmora Academy, the students train for war, mastering elemental magic within one of these units. We meet Arianell Nocthare who is disgraced and magic-less and rejected by every unit. She is facing scrutiny from her brothers best friend Sebastian Zain (wink, wink) despite her drive to clear her families name. Forming an alliance with Seb, she learns that Valmora is hiding dark truths. Survival is deadly until one day she discovers something about her hidden powers...
Oh he definitely falls first and hates harder. He will torment her but if anyone else tries it...
Let's get into this.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Hachette Book Group/New Zealand and the author, Ashley Anderson for and early copy.
Anyone follow ash_reads on instagram? Well she's great & now this is her debut and I am 100% ready for it.
Three stones, three powers, three magical units. You choose your unit and you hope it chooses you back. At the prestigious Valmora Academy, the students train for war, mastering elemental magic within one of these units. We meet Arianell Nocthare who is disgraced and magic-less and rejected by every unit. She is facing scrutiny from her brothers best friend Sebastian Zain (wink, wink) despite her drive to clear her families name. Forming an alliance with Seb, she learns that Valmora is hiding dark truths. Survival is deadly until one day she discovers something about her hidden powers...
Oh he definitely falls first and hates harder. He will torment her but if anyone else tries it...
Let's get into this.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Hachette Book Group/New Zealand and the author, Ashley Anderson for and early copy.
January 22, 2026
3.5 rounded down. Malachite is a good story with a set up for a strong series that had some issues that kept me from loving it.
Arianell is entering her first year at Valmora Academy right on the heels of her brother being executed for murdering his fellow students. When who she thought would be her biggest advocate turns out to be her biggest adversary, she must find her place in the magical academy alone.
Malachite occasionally feels derivative of other popular romantasys due to its use of common elements (houses of magic, a veil of dark magic dividing the land, etc), but these pieces come together in their own way to make a unique story. With regards to the characters, I LOVED Sebastian and Arianell (major Xaden-Violet energy), but I really struggled to believe the change in Sebastian (don’t want to say more due to spoilers). The ending felt very rushed, and the book had a lot more typos and errors than I’m used to for ARCs, so I’m really hoping the editors are able to fix that before publishing so Ashley Andersen’s story can shine through!
Overall a good debut novel that I think signals a lot to come from Ashley Andersen.
Read if…
- you like enemies to lovers (think Xaden and Violet)
- you’re a dark academia fan
Skip if…
- you don’t like YA (it’s not strictly YA, but reads a bit like it)
- you don’t want to read anything too similar to other popular romantasys
- you cringe easily (some dialogue took me out of the scenes🐍🐍 IYKYK)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Violence: 🗡️🗡️
*Thank you to Mobius Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!*
Arianell is entering her first year at Valmora Academy right on the heels of her brother being executed for murdering his fellow students. When who she thought would be her biggest advocate turns out to be her biggest adversary, she must find her place in the magical academy alone.
Malachite occasionally feels derivative of other popular romantasys due to its use of common elements (houses of magic, a veil of dark magic dividing the land, etc), but these pieces come together in their own way to make a unique story. With regards to the characters, I LOVED Sebastian and Arianell (major Xaden-Violet energy), but I really struggled to believe the change in Sebastian (don’t want to say more due to spoilers). The ending felt very rushed, and the book had a lot more typos and errors than I’m used to for ARCs, so I’m really hoping the editors are able to fix that before publishing so Ashley Andersen’s story can shine through!
Overall a good debut novel that I think signals a lot to come from Ashley Andersen.
Read if…
- you like enemies to lovers (think Xaden and Violet)
- you’re a dark academia fan
Skip if…
- you don’t like YA (it’s not strictly YA, but reads a bit like it)
- you don’t want to read anything too similar to other popular romantasys
- you cringe easily (some dialogue took me out of the scenes🐍🐍 IYKYK)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Violence: 🗡️🗡️
*Thank you to Mobius Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!*
January 21, 2026
Some books whisper to you. Malachite grabs you by the throat and dares you to look away.
Ashley Anderson delivers a dark, atmospheric story that seeps into your bones, blending emotional depth with an almost hypnotic sense of unease. From the start, the narrative carries a weight of grief, obsession, and choices that don’t come without consequences. This is not a comfort read; it’s a slow burn into the shadowed corners of the human psyche.
The characters feel raw and imperfect, driven by longing and haunted by the past. Their emotions are messy, painful, and achingly real, making it impossible not to feel pulled into their unraveling. Anderson’s prose is sharp yet poetic, painting vivid scenes that linger long after the page is turned.
What truly sets Malachite apart is its tone dark, immersive, and unapologetically intense. It explores themes of power, control, and transformation in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling. You’re not just reading this story; you’re sinking into it.
Thank you NetGalley
Ashley Anderson delivers a dark, atmospheric story that seeps into your bones, blending emotional depth with an almost hypnotic sense of unease. From the start, the narrative carries a weight of grief, obsession, and choices that don’t come without consequences. This is not a comfort read; it’s a slow burn into the shadowed corners of the human psyche.
The characters feel raw and imperfect, driven by longing and haunted by the past. Their emotions are messy, painful, and achingly real, making it impossible not to feel pulled into their unraveling. Anderson’s prose is sharp yet poetic, painting vivid scenes that linger long after the page is turned.
What truly sets Malachite apart is its tone dark, immersive, and unapologetically intense. It explores themes of power, control, and transformation in a way that feels both intimate and unsettling. You’re not just reading this story; you’re sinking into it.
Thank you NetGalley
May 3, 2026
I believe I’ve just discovered my newest obsession 😩 it has been a hot minute since I’m devoured a book this quickly but I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN! I stayed up till 11:30 to finish it, and if you know me, I’m pretty strict about my 9pm bedtime 😴 Unique magic systems, sizzling romance and a plot twist I absolutely did not see coming!! Plus a grumpy mmc 😏 what more could you really ask for??
May 7, 2026
Malachite is an engrossing and immersive read that totally caught me by surprise with some shocking revelations and twists. A dark romantasy, the story has parts that might be disturbing for some readers, so I would definitely check out the content warnings before starting the book.
Arienell is a fantastic protagonist with so much grit and bravery. Oof, she faces every possible obstacle, and she never stops fighting. Plus, she's grieving the loss of her brother, who was accused of some pretty heinous crimes. It was definitely admirable, especially given her tragic backstory, her awful parents, and all the odds stacked against her.
I liked a lot of the secondary characters, too, as well as the found family aspect of the story. That felt especially poignant considering how Arienell is initially treated and how her family treats her. Tilly ended up being one of my favorite characters. She's a total badass, and beneath her kind, sweet, and sassy exterior is a ruthless and fierce friend. I loved her friendship with Arienell, and the banter between them was great.
The one part of the story that I didn't love, particularly in the first half of the book, is the romance. I like enemies-to-lovers arcs, but for me, this romance goes past enemies-to-lovers and is more brother's best friend to rage-filled bully to lovers, and it just wasn't for me. I get the reasoning, but he's so insulting, disdainful, and hateful toward her that he actually emboldens others to be purposely cruel to her. And some of the terrible things he says? Unforgivable. It made it very hard for me to like him, though he did redeem himself by the end of the book. Once he admits to himself that he's fallen for her, he falls hard, and there's nothing he wouldn't do for her.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. It has an interesting magic system, a compelling protagonist, and the dark academia vibes are fabulous. Plus, the plot twists! So good!!
Arienell is a fantastic protagonist with so much grit and bravery. Oof, she faces every possible obstacle, and she never stops fighting. Plus, she's grieving the loss of her brother, who was accused of some pretty heinous crimes. It was definitely admirable, especially given her tragic backstory, her awful parents, and all the odds stacked against her.
I liked a lot of the secondary characters, too, as well as the found family aspect of the story. That felt especially poignant considering how Arienell is initially treated and how her family treats her. Tilly ended up being one of my favorite characters. She's a total badass, and beneath her kind, sweet, and sassy exterior is a ruthless and fierce friend. I loved her friendship with Arienell, and the banter between them was great.
The one part of the story that I didn't love, particularly in the first half of the book, is the romance. I like enemies-to-lovers arcs, but for me, this romance goes past enemies-to-lovers and is more brother's best friend to rage-filled bully to lovers, and it just wasn't for me. I get the reasoning, but he's so insulting, disdainful, and hateful toward her that he actually emboldens others to be purposely cruel to her. And some of the terrible things he says? Unforgivable. It made it very hard for me to like him, though he did redeem himself by the end of the book. Once he admits to himself that he's fallen for her, he falls hard, and there's nothing he wouldn't do for her.
Overall, I enjoyed the story. It has an interesting magic system, a compelling protagonist, and the dark academia vibes are fabulous. Plus, the plot twists! So good!!
Did Not Finish
March 12, 2026A decent story for folks who are really into YA vibed romantasy and don’t mind similarities with other series. For me, the plot, tropes, and characters were just too similar to Fourth Wing and Divergent for me to enjoy. The two main characters felt a lot like Xaden and Violet. I prefer romantasy with a more unique spin and this fell a little flat. I do think a lot of people will like this, especially diehard romantasy readers. I just prefer a little more depth.
The romance was fine and I liked that our FMC was so scrappy. Fans of Fourth Wing, Legend, and Zodiac Academy should check this out.
Thank you Hatchette Books and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
The romance was fine and I liked that our FMC was so scrappy. Fans of Fourth Wing, Legend, and Zodiac Academy should check this out.
Thank you Hatchette Books and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
5⭐️
Malachite is like Divergent meets Fourth Wing, and they had a book baby.
Despite her magic not yet surfacing, Arianell has finally been accepted to Valmora Academy. However, her acceptance comes right after her brother has been executed for murdering 4 students at the Academy. Faced with hostility everywhere, including from her brothers best friend, Sebastian, Aria is determined to clear his name.
This story was such a good time. Aria and her friend, Tilly watching Sebastian and Jed 'fight'- that chapter had me laughing so hard. It deserves its own star. It showed the found family relationships perfectly.
Aria is strong and stubborn but not stupid FMC. She's relatable in her grief for her brother. I enjoyed seeing her friendships with Tilly and Xavier, and eventually, Jed and Lillian grow. I rooted for her that despite everything, she began to win people over.
My only nitpicking would be a lack of insight as to the war. I would have liked some more information as to who and why.
The ending?! Brutal! I can't wait for book 2.
Thanks for choosing me to be an ARC Reader.
Malachite is like Divergent meets Fourth Wing, and they had a book baby.
Despite her magic not yet surfacing, Arianell has finally been accepted to Valmora Academy. However, her acceptance comes right after her brother has been executed for murdering 4 students at the Academy. Faced with hostility everywhere, including from her brothers best friend, Sebastian, Aria is determined to clear his name.
This story was such a good time. Aria and her friend, Tilly watching Sebastian and Jed 'fight'- that chapter had me laughing so hard. It deserves its own star. It showed the found family relationships perfectly.
Aria is strong and stubborn but not stupid FMC. She's relatable in her grief for her brother. I enjoyed seeing her friendships with Tilly and Xavier, and eventually, Jed and Lillian grow. I rooted for her that despite everything, she began to win people over.
My only nitpicking would be a lack of insight as to the war. I would have liked some more information as to who and why.
The ending?! Brutal! I can't wait for book 2.
Thanks for choosing me to be an ARC Reader.
January 28, 2026
Malachite follows Arianell as she goes to a star created magic school to find out more about her brother’s death. On her first day she runs into Sebastian, one of her brother’s best friends, who is no longer the guy she once knew.
This book has such good yearning and tension between Arianell and Sebastian. The story has a dark academia setting with an interesting magic system. It gives off dark Harry Potter vibes. I could not put this book down! It does end on a cliffhanger and I need the next book now!! I’d definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for
✔️ Dark academia setting
✔️Brother’s best friend
✔️Slow burn
✔️Banter and yearning
✔️Enemies (ish) to lovers
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
This book has such good yearning and tension between Arianell and Sebastian. The story has a dark academia setting with an interesting magic system. It gives off dark Harry Potter vibes. I could not put this book down! It does end on a cliffhanger and I need the next book now!! I’d definitely recommend this book if you’re looking for
✔️ Dark academia setting
✔️Brother’s best friend
✔️Slow burn
✔️Banter and yearning
✔️Enemies (ish) to lovers
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
May 13, 2026
Thank you to Hachette Book Group and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC
4.5 stars! This was awesome and such an entertaining read! What a great debut romantasy novel!
Was it flawlessly executed? No. But I had the best time reading it. The plot is fast-paced, and the storyline gripped me immediately, keeping me hooked the entire time. It’s an easy read, and I think many romantasy readers will find themselves sucked in right away. It does have a lot of similar tropes and elements found in other popular romantasy novels, but that didn’t bother me one bit.
The book follows Arianell as she enters the prestigious Valmora Academy. But she has a target on her back after everyone comes to believe her brother murdered four other students using dark magic.
At the academy, students are divided into three houses—each tied to a specific gemstone: Malachite for the warriors, Opal for the healers, and Agate for the scholars. Placement is based on the type of elemental magic you wield. Air wielders go into Agate, water wielders into Opal, and fire wielders into Malachite.
But what happens when you have no magic? And what happens when your dead brother’s best friend is now your unit leader and seems to despise you along with the rest of the school? And what about when you’re convinced your brother didn’t really murder four people and are determined to prove his innocence?
These are the problems Arianell is dealing with—she has no magic, the man she thought she’d find comfort in at the academy hates her, and she knows her brother would never commit a violent act like that in a million years.
There is so much yumminess in this story, and the way Ashley writes makes it incredibly easy and fun to consume. The tension is there, the yearning is there, and the stakes feel high throughout.
Tropes you can expect include:
Enemies to lovers
Magical academy
Elemental magic
Dark secrets
Found family
Gods and mortals
I knocked it down half a star because the ending felt a bit rushed, and I would’ve liked that section to be drawn out more. But otherwise, I loved it. It’s definitely more of a vibes read than high art, but I’m here to be entertained—and trust me, I was.
4.5 stars! This was awesome and such an entertaining read! What a great debut romantasy novel!
Was it flawlessly executed? No. But I had the best time reading it. The plot is fast-paced, and the storyline gripped me immediately, keeping me hooked the entire time. It’s an easy read, and I think many romantasy readers will find themselves sucked in right away. It does have a lot of similar tropes and elements found in other popular romantasy novels, but that didn’t bother me one bit.
The book follows Arianell as she enters the prestigious Valmora Academy. But she has a target on her back after everyone comes to believe her brother murdered four other students using dark magic.
At the academy, students are divided into three houses—each tied to a specific gemstone: Malachite for the warriors, Opal for the healers, and Agate for the scholars. Placement is based on the type of elemental magic you wield. Air wielders go into Agate, water wielders into Opal, and fire wielders into Malachite.
But what happens when you have no magic? And what happens when your dead brother’s best friend is now your unit leader and seems to despise you along with the rest of the school? And what about when you’re convinced your brother didn’t really murder four people and are determined to prove his innocence?
These are the problems Arianell is dealing with—she has no magic, the man she thought she’d find comfort in at the academy hates her, and she knows her brother would never commit a violent act like that in a million years.
There is so much yumminess in this story, and the way Ashley writes makes it incredibly easy and fun to consume. The tension is there, the yearning is there, and the stakes feel high throughout.
Tropes you can expect include:
Enemies to lovers
Magical academy
Elemental magic
Dark secrets
Found family
Gods and mortals
I knocked it down half a star because the ending felt a bit rushed, and I would’ve liked that section to be drawn out more. But otherwise, I loved it. It’s definitely more of a vibes read than high art, but I’m here to be entertained—and trust me, I was.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 ⭐ (rounded down)
malachite was a dark, atmospheric novel with strong romantasy elements. the premise centers on three houses, with students attending valmora academy to train for the front lines as strategists, healers, or warriors. i was hooked by the concept and really loved the foundation of the story. it was an interesting read, similar to fourth wing, divergent, etc. which definitely grabbed my attention from the start.
what didn’t fully work for me was that it read more like YA than i expected. the writing felt repetitive at times, especially in descriptions. many characters had minimal physical detail beyond eye or hair color, which made it harder to fully picture them. the plot was a bit messy at times + some plot holes, the world building also felt choppy, or almost nonexistent (backstory of Stars, the veil, magic, etc.), and some parts of the dialogue came across as a bit cringey.
that said, the core story absolutely pulled me in, and i was genuinely invested in seeing where it would go. this was fun and entertaining, there’s a lot of potential here, and i think these elements could really improve in the next book!
thank you NetGalley for the ARC!!
malachite was a dark, atmospheric novel with strong romantasy elements. the premise centers on three houses, with students attending valmora academy to train for the front lines as strategists, healers, or warriors. i was hooked by the concept and really loved the foundation of the story. it was an interesting read, similar to fourth wing, divergent, etc. which definitely grabbed my attention from the start.
what didn’t fully work for me was that it read more like YA than i expected. the writing felt repetitive at times, especially in descriptions. many characters had minimal physical detail beyond eye or hair color, which made it harder to fully picture them. the plot was a bit messy at times + some plot holes, the world building also felt choppy, or almost nonexistent (backstory of Stars, the veil, magic, etc.), and some parts of the dialogue came across as a bit cringey.
that said, the core story absolutely pulled me in, and i was genuinely invested in seeing where it would go. this was fun and entertaining, there’s a lot of potential here, and i think these elements could really improve in the next book!
thank you NetGalley for the ARC!!
May 28, 2026
3☆ this was okay... i think the skeleton and outline of this story was good, it had some good building blocks, but i don't think the execution of it was at the level i was hoping it to be. the fact that the mmc was her brother's best friend (and lowk second chance?) had me teeheeing but i wish there was just more. somehow the entire plot was the romance but it also wasn't enough?
speaking of the plot, i wish it was better. the world building was lacking a little bit and there wasn't a whole lot of information on the magic. granted she didn't know much either, but i wish she attempted to learn more about the magic (library research or a scene in class) cus then i wouldn't have been so lost.
this was definitely a decent start for a debut, especially considering the fact i read this in less than 24 hours.
speaking of the plot, i wish it was better. the world building was lacking a little bit and there wasn't a whole lot of information on the magic. granted she didn't know much either, but i wish she attempted to learn more about the magic (library research or a scene in class) cus then i wouldn't have been so lost.
this was definitely a decent start for a debut, especially considering the fact i read this in less than 24 hours.
January 13, 2026
3.5 ⭐️ (rounded up to 4)!
“Sebastian Zain kisses me like a man that’s been starved of air, and I am his next breath.” 🥵
I really enjoyed this book and think it was a great debut! It had a ton of elements I tend to love in books: dark academia, different “houses”, enemies to lovers, and elemental magic.
The tension between Sebastian and Arianell was crazy and had me giggling and kicking my feet while reading. I do think their relationship wasn’t what you would consider a “true enemies to lovers” but rather a loose enemies to lovers because he bullied her at first and was super rude to her before his true feelings were revealed.
I also do think that there are a lot of similar books that follow this same plot/pattern, so that’s why it wasn’t a full 5 star read for me. But I did overall still enjoy the story and look forward to reading future books in the series!
If you’re looking for a dark academia featuring enemies to lovers, elemental magic, brother’s best friend, and a murder mystery, then be sure to check out Malachite!
Thank you so much to Mobius Books and Netgalley for an advanced copy! Malachite releases on May 5th in the US!
“Sebastian Zain kisses me like a man that’s been starved of air, and I am his next breath.” 🥵
I really enjoyed this book and think it was a great debut! It had a ton of elements I tend to love in books: dark academia, different “houses”, enemies to lovers, and elemental magic.
The tension between Sebastian and Arianell was crazy and had me giggling and kicking my feet while reading. I do think their relationship wasn’t what you would consider a “true enemies to lovers” but rather a loose enemies to lovers because he bullied her at first and was super rude to her before his true feelings were revealed.
I also do think that there are a lot of similar books that follow this same plot/pattern, so that’s why it wasn’t a full 5 star read for me. But I did overall still enjoy the story and look forward to reading future books in the series!
If you’re looking for a dark academia featuring enemies to lovers, elemental magic, brother’s best friend, and a murder mystery, then be sure to check out Malachite!
Thank you so much to Mobius Books and Netgalley for an advanced copy! Malachite releases on May 5th in the US!
April 30, 2026
This was my first fantasy book so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I absolutely devoured it! I’m waiting with baited breath for the sequel after that ending ⭐️ ✨
May 28, 2026
Wow, this book was.. incredible.
The world building, the academy, the mystery, the romance. This book has it ALL. I truthfully loved every second of it and I don’t want to wait to see what happens in the next book. I need the next one like, yesterday.
The world building, the academy, the mystery, the romance. This book has it ALL. I truthfully loved every second of it and I don’t want to wait to see what happens in the next book. I need the next one like, yesterday.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
To say that I was speechless after finishing this book would be an understatement. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and the overwhelming feeling of wanting more in the wake of what I’d just read was astounding.
Often, in stories like this, the first book leans heavily into world-building and can feel slower because of it. That was not the case here. From the start, we’re thrown directly into the world and its lore, and it unfolds naturally alongside the story. We learn about the characters and the history as the main character does — seeing what she sees, discovering things as she does. It created a shared experience that I genuinely enjoyed.
I found myself riding along on her emotional roller coaster and appreciating that, even though she’s repeatedly knocked down, she doesn’t linger in a victim mentality. Instead, she gets back up, brushes herself off, and tries again — harder.
The pacing moved well overall, though there were moments that felt almost too quick. I wouldn’t say those moments were rushed, but I did find myself wanting more — a bit more detail to build tension and deepen the relationships between the characters.
That said, this story delivered twists, turns, emotional highs and lows, and some spicy moments, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series and to see what this author does next.
Often, in stories like this, the first book leans heavily into world-building and can feel slower because of it. That was not the case here. From the start, we’re thrown directly into the world and its lore, and it unfolds naturally alongside the story. We learn about the characters and the history as the main character does — seeing what she sees, discovering things as she does. It created a shared experience that I genuinely enjoyed.
I found myself riding along on her emotional roller coaster and appreciating that, even though she’s repeatedly knocked down, she doesn’t linger in a victim mentality. Instead, she gets back up, brushes herself off, and tries again — harder.
The pacing moved well overall, though there were moments that felt almost too quick. I wouldn’t say those moments were rushed, but I did find myself wanting more — a bit more detail to build tension and deepen the relationships between the characters.
That said, this story delivered twists, turns, emotional highs and lows, and some spicy moments, and I enjoyed every minute of it. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series and to see what this author does next.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
5 STARS
SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!! THIS ONE IS SO STINKIN’ GOOD AND EVERYONE NEEDS TO ADD IT TO THEIR TBR NOW!!
Once you start it, you can’t put it down, I know I couldn’t. I left it at the office and was DEVASTATED that I couldn’t read it because I LEFT IT AT THE OFFICE!!
The writing style, the characters, the plot, the setting, the twists and turns. LITERALLY EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS ONE!!
AND OMG THAT ENDING 😭😭 I need the next book STAT!!
(arc review) - releasing May 19th (for USA)
SHUT THE FRONT DOOR!! THIS ONE IS SO STINKIN’ GOOD AND EVERYONE NEEDS TO ADD IT TO THEIR TBR NOW!!
Once you start it, you can’t put it down, I know I couldn’t. I left it at the office and was DEVASTATED that I couldn’t read it because I LEFT IT AT THE OFFICE!!
The writing style, the characters, the plot, the setting, the twists and turns. LITERALLY EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS ONE!!
AND OMG THAT ENDING 😭😭 I need the next book STAT!!
(arc review) - releasing May 19th (for USA)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Ahhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!! This was so good it makes me want to scream!!!!
I can see this blowing up all over social media, it is that good!
For fans of Zodiac Academy, fourth wing, and dark academia.
🌶 🌶
Dark academia, with powers, magic, mystery and romance.
I saw this available on netgalley under read now, and I was in the mood for a dark academia, so I said to myself why not.
Well dear reader dont read this unless
-You want a gut wrenching backstory
-A mystery that will have you questioning everything
-A slow burn that has you screaming at the imaginary characters
-A found family in friends that make you feel like you found your family
-An fmc that has such quick witty reply that have your jaw on the floor
-Action that gets your heart pounding
-And an ending THAT RIPS YOUR HEART OUT.
ya i couldnt put this down.
I can see this blowing up all over social media, it is that good!
For fans of Zodiac Academy, fourth wing, and dark academia.
🌶 🌶
Dark academia, with powers, magic, mystery and romance.
I saw this available on netgalley under read now, and I was in the mood for a dark academia, so I said to myself why not.
Well dear reader dont read this unless
-You want a gut wrenching backstory
-A mystery that will have you questioning everything
-A slow burn that has you screaming at the imaginary characters
-A found family in friends that make you feel like you found your family
-An fmc that has such quick witty reply that have your jaw on the floor
-Action that gets your heart pounding
-And an ending THAT RIPS YOUR HEART OUT.
ya i couldnt put this down.
January 25, 2026
This story really is if Fourth Wing and Zodiac Academy had a magical baby. And it is so GOOD. I was sucked into this book immediately and I am DEVASTATED that I can’t read more right this second.
The enemies to lovers slow burn is DELICIOUS 🤤 the FMC and MMC are everything and I truly can’t wait for another book. This debut novel is everything you want in a dark romantasy. Magic, secrets, trials, big twists, and characters that you CRAVE to see more of. 10/10 recommend this book!
⭐️Malachite will be released May 5th and is available for preorder now!! Trust me, you’ll want to preorder this one!!
🖤Thank you NetGalley and Ashley Anderson for the opportunity to ARC read this amazing debut novel!! 🖤
The enemies to lovers slow burn is DELICIOUS 🤤 the FMC and MMC are everything and I truly can’t wait for another book. This debut novel is everything you want in a dark romantasy. Magic, secrets, trials, big twists, and characters that you CRAVE to see more of. 10/10 recommend this book!
⭐️Malachite will be released May 5th and is available for preorder now!! Trust me, you’ll want to preorder this one!!
🖤Thank you NetGalley and Ashley Anderson for the opportunity to ARC read this amazing debut novel!! 🖤
January 18, 2026
This book was absolutely amazing! One of the best romantasy books I’ve read! So good I finished it in three hours!
April 18, 2026
✨ARC Review ✨
“I want to restore our family name. But where he wants me to succeed at the academy, I want to vindicate my brother.”
✨ Academy setting
✨ Brother’s best friend
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Found family
✨ Slow burn
This was a really easy book to get into. The academy setting and elemental system give it a strong, engaging foundation straight away, and it’s the kind of story that keeps you turning pages because you want to know what happens next.
I really loved Tilly, Lillian, and Jed. The found family aspect was honestly one of my favourite parts. It adds a lot of heart to the story and balances out all the tension going on around Aria.
“Our battle scars and pain are a testament to how much we’re willing to endure for the ones we love.”
Arianell’s journey was definitely what kept me most invested. I loved following her as she tried to uncover the truth about her brother’s death while also trying to survive everything happening at the academy. That emotional thread really anchors the whole book.
“Because I was told if I stand too close to fire, it may burn me, and I have enough scars in my body as it is. But I don’t say that, because that would be letting him see too much.”
The Aria and Sebastian dynamic is very tropey in the best way. It leans into familiar romantasy beats, but it is still fun and easy to read. Their chemistry keeps things interesting even when you can see where certain things are heading.
“Like he is coming undone at the seams and I’m the needle ready to stitch him back together again.”
I would have personally loved a bit more exploration of the world outside the academy, just to expand things a little further. And while the writing is generally easy to read, there were a couple of moments where the phrasing felt a bit more YA in tone and pulled me out slightly.
That said, the pacing is solid and it keeps everything moving really well. I stayed engaged throughout, and the ending genuinely surprised me in the best way with some great twists and reveals that set things up nicely for what is next.
Chaos, vibes, and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
Thank you to Hachette, Ashley Andersen & NetGalley for this ARC 🫶🏻
“I want to restore our family name. But where he wants me to succeed at the academy, I want to vindicate my brother.”
✨ Academy setting
✨ Brother’s best friend
✨ Forced proximity
✨ Found family
✨ Slow burn
This was a really easy book to get into. The academy setting and elemental system give it a strong, engaging foundation straight away, and it’s the kind of story that keeps you turning pages because you want to know what happens next.
I really loved Tilly, Lillian, and Jed. The found family aspect was honestly one of my favourite parts. It adds a lot of heart to the story and balances out all the tension going on around Aria.
“Our battle scars and pain are a testament to how much we’re willing to endure for the ones we love.”
Arianell’s journey was definitely what kept me most invested. I loved following her as she tried to uncover the truth about her brother’s death while also trying to survive everything happening at the academy. That emotional thread really anchors the whole book.
“Because I was told if I stand too close to fire, it may burn me, and I have enough scars in my body as it is. But I don’t say that, because that would be letting him see too much.”
The Aria and Sebastian dynamic is very tropey in the best way. It leans into familiar romantasy beats, but it is still fun and easy to read. Their chemistry keeps things interesting even when you can see where certain things are heading.
“Like he is coming undone at the seams and I’m the needle ready to stitch him back together again.”
I would have personally loved a bit more exploration of the world outside the academy, just to expand things a little further. And while the writing is generally easy to read, there were a couple of moments where the phrasing felt a bit more YA in tone and pulled me out slightly.
That said, the pacing is solid and it keeps everything moving really well. I stayed engaged throughout, and the ending genuinely surprised me in the best way with some great twists and reveals that set things up nicely for what is next.
Chaos, vibes, and opinions are all my own ✨ please give credit if you share.
Thank you to Hachette, Ashley Andersen & NetGalley for this ARC 🫶🏻
May 6, 2026
4.5 ⭐️
Choose your unit and hope it chooses you back ⚔️
Arianell Nocthare is accepted into the prestigious Valmora Academy, a training academy based off of three stones. Agate- strategy, Opal- healing, and Malachite- fighting and war. Despite this being a huge achievement, there’s a giant gloom hanging over Arianell’s acceptance. Her brother was burned for the accusation of black magic only a few months prior. Arianell must prove her worth while also trying to prove that her brother was not the monster the academy painted him to be. Oh and stay alive since everyone blames her for her brother’s dealings. 😳
The slow burn in this is delectable! This is brother’s old best friend trope, so this felt very previous friends-to ‘enemies’- to lovers vibes. Some might even call this a second chance romance. Either way, I loved the romance in this book! The tension was perfect! The slow burn was exactly how I like it! They didn’t have a spot where they touched and things started falling into anything more until 60% and THAT my friends is the kind of slow burn I’m looking for!!
This could be one of my favorite book at this year! The way I did not want to put this book down! I love where this is heading and I am so excited to what happens in book 2! This debut novel absolutely blew my expectations out of the water!
Choose your unit and hope it chooses you back ⚔️
Arianell Nocthare is accepted into the prestigious Valmora Academy, a training academy based off of three stones. Agate- strategy, Opal- healing, and Malachite- fighting and war. Despite this being a huge achievement, there’s a giant gloom hanging over Arianell’s acceptance. Her brother was burned for the accusation of black magic only a few months prior. Arianell must prove her worth while also trying to prove that her brother was not the monster the academy painted him to be. Oh and stay alive since everyone blames her for her brother’s dealings. 😳
The slow burn in this is delectable! This is brother’s old best friend trope, so this felt very previous friends-to ‘enemies’- to lovers vibes. Some might even call this a second chance romance. Either way, I loved the romance in this book! The tension was perfect! The slow burn was exactly how I like it! They didn’t have a spot where they touched and things started falling into anything more until 60% and THAT my friends is the kind of slow burn I’m looking for!!
This could be one of my favorite book at this year! The way I did not want to put this book down! I love where this is heading and I am so excited to what happens in book 2! This debut novel absolutely blew my expectations out of the water!
Review of advance copy
3.5⭐️ (rounded up)
This book had such good vibes! It felt like a mix of Fourth Wing / Divergent / Zodiac Academy / Harry Potter and I actually loved that. I mean… what’s not to like really? It was easy to read and pulled me in from page one.
I just wish the world building and magic system had been explored a bit more. We only get little glimpses of the creatures they fight at the front, and we never fully understand what the war actually involves. I’m guessing book two will expand on it, but it definitely left me wanting more.
Same with the magic system it felt a bit surface level. They can wield elements, which is pretty straightforward, but there are also all these other layers of magic that get mentioned without really being explained: banishing and protection magic, charging and cleansing crystals, moon phases affecting the units… we’re told these things exist, but we never really dive into how any of it works, and I wanted MORE.
Also… I could’ve done without the last chapter because it honestly left me more confused than intrigued. I almost think ending on Aria’s chapter would’ve hit harder.
But I will be reading book 2 :)
This book had such good vibes! It felt like a mix of Fourth Wing / Divergent / Zodiac Academy / Harry Potter and I actually loved that. I mean… what’s not to like really? It was easy to read and pulled me in from page one.
I just wish the world building and magic system had been explored a bit more. We only get little glimpses of the creatures they fight at the front, and we never fully understand what the war actually involves. I’m guessing book two will expand on it, but it definitely left me wanting more.
Same with the magic system it felt a bit surface level. They can wield elements, which is pretty straightforward, but there are also all these other layers of magic that get mentioned without really being explained: banishing and protection magic, charging and cleansing crystals, moon phases affecting the units… we’re told these things exist, but we never really dive into how any of it works, and I wanted MORE.
Also… I could’ve done without the last chapter because it honestly left me more confused than intrigued. I almost think ending on Aria’s chapter would’ve hit harder.
But I will be reading book 2 :)
May 2, 2026
I actually had the best time reading this one. This was a “I deserve a lil treat” purchase and I am so glad I picked it up. Easy to read, has that mystery element to it, a little touch of magic, some very likeable side characters and some very “i hope you stub your toe” characters, the dark academia vibes which I LOVE and a broody MMC. Perfect kinda mix if I’m honest.
I still have so many questions after finishing because WHAT DO YOU MEAN that’s how it ended? Aria really had my interest throughout, she can’t feel her magic? WHY? Where is it? Will it manifest? What is she? I need answers ok.
Some parts felt a little predictable BUT you know what? Fuck it, I enjoyed it. Not bad for a debut book, I think this has potential to be quite good, I’m keen for book two and how that’s going to unfold.
I still have so many questions after finishing because WHAT DO YOU MEAN that’s how it ended? Aria really had my interest throughout, she can’t feel her magic? WHY? Where is it? Will it manifest? What is she? I need answers ok.
Some parts felt a little predictable BUT you know what? Fuck it, I enjoyed it. Not bad for a debut book, I think this has potential to be quite good, I’m keen for book two and how that’s going to unfold.
April 27, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️.5
Thank you to Hachette Press and Ashley for an ARC!
This was a strong debut and great start to a new romantasy series! The world building was well developed and sucked me into the story in a way that I could envision everything that occurred in detail. The plot kept me hooked. Sebastian was a top tier book boyfriend. While he didn’t always treat Arianell properly, his motivation was still her best interests. Once he finally got around to groveling, he had me falling for him and rooting for their relationship. For the first half of the book, I was not a huge fan of Arianell, as she was very weak and naïve; however, as the story progressed and she started to come into her own power, I found myself liking her more. That cliffhanger ending was diabolical and I have so many questions! I highly recommend this one.
*Check TWs if needed.*
🌶️.5
Thank you to Hachette Press and Ashley for an ARC!
This was a strong debut and great start to a new romantasy series! The world building was well developed and sucked me into the story in a way that I could envision everything that occurred in detail. The plot kept me hooked. Sebastian was a top tier book boyfriend. While he didn’t always treat Arianell properly, his motivation was still her best interests. Once he finally got around to groveling, he had me falling for him and rooting for their relationship. For the first half of the book, I was not a huge fan of Arianell, as she was very weak and naïve; however, as the story progressed and she started to come into her own power, I found myself liking her more. That cliffhanger ending was diabolical and I have so many questions! I highly recommend this one.
*Check TWs if needed.*
May 25, 2026
Wow, wow, wow! I don’t even know where to start. This book ruined my life in the best way! It grabbed my attention from the start and held in its grasp so tightly until the very last word. Ash did an amazing job building a world that felt unique and oh so intriguing. Her writing also introduced us to characters that I absolutely adored! The FMC and MMC both filled me with so much joy, and I loved every part of them individually and together. But then the supporting characters too evoked such a strong response from me, and have a special place in my heart. As a debut novel, Ash blew it out of the park. If you like fantasy, suspense, slow burn, enemies to lovers, then look no further than Malachite.
May 5, 2026
OH THIS WAS SO GOOD
gave me all the feelings i had when i read Fourth Wing for the first time and I’ve had the time of my LIFE.
Easy to read and understand magic system, set at a war academy with so much delicious tension, twists and found family - I actually couldn’t get enough of it.
Sebastian - oh my wonderful Seb. If you’re looking for another book boyfriend to rival Xaden, here he is!!
An absolutely diabolical cliffhanger, but I will be sitting here first in line for the next book when it’s out
I couldn’t put this down, and it’s a real credit to Ash, just how good this is. An incredible debut, from a kiwi and one of the best people in the booksta community.
gave me all the feelings i had when i read Fourth Wing for the first time and I’ve had the time of my LIFE.
Easy to read and understand magic system, set at a war academy with so much delicious tension, twists and found family - I actually couldn’t get enough of it.
Sebastian - oh my wonderful Seb. If you’re looking for another book boyfriend to rival Xaden, here he is!!
An absolutely diabolical cliffhanger, but I will be sitting here first in line for the next book when it’s out
I couldn’t put this down, and it’s a real credit to Ash, just how good this is. An incredible debut, from a kiwi and one of the best people in the booksta community.
May 8, 2026
I loved this book. Someone else Harry Potter meets Fourth Wing but I think it’s closer to Divergent. You pick your “school” and the story goes from there with betrayal etc. LOVED it. I knew I liked Seb from the beginning hehehe. Don’t love that Ria is 21 but it is what it is. I could not put this book down, I can’t say much more without ruining it really so just read it.
May 28, 2026
I wasnt on the edge of my seat...but i was still sat nonetheless
Read
January 17, 2026rtc
February 20, 2026
Releasing May 2026!
Let me start by saying that my opinion might be a bit biased… if you drop into ANY magical academy, I am happy JUST to be there. I don’t need any convincing and I have unpacked my bags already. lol.
That being said…. This academy is BRUTAL !!
The atmosphere is tense, the students are RUTHLESS, and the magic system has layers of. There is ancient history woven into everything, whispers of erased truths, and enough mystery to have you side-eyeing EVERY authority figure in sight.
ARIA is sarcastic, sharp tongued, and refuses to shrink; even when the ENTIRE academy treats her like she’s a curse walking on two legs. Watching her hold her own and have no powers, was BY FAR my FAVORITE PARTS!
The lore is where the story really shines! The celestial mythology, the crystals and intentions, the political undertones, the carefully placed breadcrumbs. it all builds up to something much bigger then it first appears.
&&the ending?!!!
DIABOLICAL !!
That cliffhanger was NOT a gentle nudge to book 2. It was a full shove off a narrative cliff & I will NOT recover until I find out what happens next!
If you love dark academia, elemental magic, high tension, and a story that slowly peels back the layers of hidden truths, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Now excuse me while I stare at my wall and wait for the sequel! Ughh !!
Thank you NetGalley and Hatchette book group for my ARC copy in exchange for my honest review !
Let me start by saying that my opinion might be a bit biased… if you drop into ANY magical academy, I am happy JUST to be there. I don’t need any convincing and I have unpacked my bags already. lol.
That being said…. This academy is BRUTAL !!
The atmosphere is tense, the students are RUTHLESS, and the magic system has layers of. There is ancient history woven into everything, whispers of erased truths, and enough mystery to have you side-eyeing EVERY authority figure in sight.
ARIA is sarcastic, sharp tongued, and refuses to shrink; even when the ENTIRE academy treats her like she’s a curse walking on two legs. Watching her hold her own and have no powers, was BY FAR my FAVORITE PARTS!
The lore is where the story really shines! The celestial mythology, the crystals and intentions, the political undertones, the carefully placed breadcrumbs. it all builds up to something much bigger then it first appears.
&&the ending?!!!
DIABOLICAL !!
That cliffhanger was NOT a gentle nudge to book 2. It was a full shove off a narrative cliff & I will NOT recover until I find out what happens next!
If you love dark academia, elemental magic, high tension, and a story that slowly peels back the layers of hidden truths, this is absolutely worth picking up.
Now excuse me while I stare at my wall and wait for the sequel! Ughh !!
Thank you NetGalley and Hatchette book group for my ARC copy in exchange for my honest review !
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