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Mages & Murder #1
Gravespell: A Tale of Mages, Murder, and Mayhem
Not yet published
Expected 6 Apr 27Wednesday meets One of Us Is Lying in this magic-filled thriller set at a modern school for wizards. A new start to a fantasy trilogy from James Trevino and Elizabeth Sagan.
Alice Howe is an outcast at the elite Deepgrove Academy, which suits her just fine. But an unwelcome premonition means she'll have to step out of the shadows. Because now she's the only one at Deepgrove who knows two terrible things. In seven days her schoolmate Xena Wycomb, daughter of the American President of Magic, will be dead. And, if left unsolved, Xena's murder will ignite a war.
Despite Alice's warning, Xena meets her foreseen demise. But before she does, she points a finger at the prime suspects in her own murder, each of whom has a deadly secret to keep.
The ex-boyfriend she cheated on and the heir to the biggest magical corporation in the world.
The traitorous best friend who is embroiled in a scandal of her own.
Xena's new boyfriend, a mage born without magic and the perfect scapegoat.
And of course, Alice herself.
Soon, the four of them are at the center of a huge media scandal, amid a very public murder investigation, which brings the modern wizarding world to the brink of war between those born with magic and those born without.
Alice knows she can't trust her fellow suspects but they all hold a piece of the puzzle. As suspicion falls on each of them in turn, Alice must find a way to uncover who killed Xena before the whole of magekind meets the same fate.
Alice Howe is an outcast at the elite Deepgrove Academy, which suits her just fine. But an unwelcome premonition means she'll have to step out of the shadows. Because now she's the only one at Deepgrove who knows two terrible things. In seven days her schoolmate Xena Wycomb, daughter of the American President of Magic, will be dead. And, if left unsolved, Xena's murder will ignite a war.
Despite Alice's warning, Xena meets her foreseen demise. But before she does, she points a finger at the prime suspects in her own murder, each of whom has a deadly secret to keep.
The ex-boyfriend she cheated on and the heir to the biggest magical corporation in the world.
The traitorous best friend who is embroiled in a scandal of her own.
Xena's new boyfriend, a mage born without magic and the perfect scapegoat.
And of course, Alice herself.
Soon, the four of them are at the center of a huge media scandal, amid a very public murder investigation, which brings the modern wizarding world to the brink of war between those born with magic and those born without.
Alice knows she can't trust her fellow suspects but they all hold a piece of the puzzle. As suspicion falls on each of them in turn, Alice must find a way to uncover who killed Xena before the whole of magekind meets the same fate.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 6, 2027
About the author
James Trevino
3 books42.5k followersJames Trevino is fascinated by magical societies full of dark secrets, morally gray characters, and impossible choices. He writes about people who stumble, fight, and sometimes fail, but always try to do better in worlds that are anything but simple. When he’s not writing, James can be found listening to creepypastas, binge-watching fantasy and sci-fi shows, or digging into history, all under the watchful eye of his cat familiar, Wanda.
GRAVESPELL, his debut novel releasing in April 2027, will be published in more than a dozen countries.
You can find him on Instagram as @james_trevino and TikTok as @james.trevino or at trevinoandsagan.com
GRAVESPELL, his debut novel releasing in April 2027, will be published in more than a dozen countries.
You can find him on Instagram as @james_trevino and TikTok as @james.trevino or at trevinoandsagan.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 26, 2025
SENSATIONAL! Elizabeth and James knocked it out of the park with this book. I wouldn’t be surprised (AT ALL) if this is the next big thing. This book isn’t just a work of art but one of partnership and absolute brilliance. Cannot wait for all to read it!!!!
Want to Read
November 24, 2025Okay - where do we sign up to read this ?
Review of advance copy received from Author
You think you’ll guess who did it. Think again.
Gravespell was my #1 read for 2027, so, imagine my utter delight when, this week, I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Magic truly exists and is the string that seamlessly interwove four PoVs into a heart-pounding, jaw-dropping tale of mage students who would have never crossed paths if it hadn’t been for the daughter of the American President of Magic (better said, the lack of her).
Right from the start you are submerged into ‘the greatest mage school in the American Grand Arch’, buried deep beneath our cities like the entire mage world. It’s a Tuesday and you follow Alice down the magically-lit corridors after having received a cryptid message from the most popular girl, with whom Alice hadn’t exchanged many words—well, aside from when Alice told her that she’s going to die. And now Alice, the outcast, finds herself embroiled with three notorious students in this miss popularity’s murder case.
The writing is bestspelling. Devastatingly so (my perturbed sleep schedule can attest to it). It charms you into lowering your defenses, even when you’re swaddled in them. ‘It’s just another murder case in an Academy setting. What can be so amazing?’ you say. You try to cling onto those shields, futilely so, when Alice grazes it with her sharp humor, Christopher scoffs at the pathetic attempt, Delvy gives you a sympathetic smile for having tried, and Ben assesses your next moves, ready to strike harder into your just-softened heart.
I finished it in one day and a half. (after I purposefully paced myself!)
I have to show some decorum I told myself, like a toddler left to oversee the candyshop. But my will was chipped away at every turn of the page ‘just one more. It’ll be the last one’ and it never was. I've been hexed, I tell you!
I sipped every line filled with witty quips, well-timed jokes and intricate worldbuilding. I gulped down their personal tragedies, the grief they had to carry on their young shoulders bent by the weight of their books and studies, and rejoiced at the heartfelt moments they shared, and the laughter that came even when their faces were still puffy from crying. It was inspiring to see how they kept on pushing onwards, striving to persevere despite everything that was coming their way (and I DO mean EVERYTHING).
Should you read it? Hmm…only if you want your heart to pound like crazy while you grip the edge of your seat, too immersed in those pages to even lift your head to properly reach for the tissue box. You get to live the confusing experience of bursting out in laughter while your vision is still blurred by unshed tears!
I would also like to make a note on the inclusion of Romanian folklore elements in the story. It was so neatly done. Those insertions were the cherries on the top of this bittersweet cake. And I am saying this as someone who (being Romanian) usually skips paragraphs in which there are insertions about Romania/Transylvania because they usually make me cringe. TOTALLY not the case here! I got to feel for the first time excitement to read about tidbits related to my country’s myths and customs and each time they made me grin and giggle like a fool.
November 19, 2025
Currently rewatching the Harry Potter series with my partner so I’m *very* excited to read this! Female main character, wizards, magic and a mystery to solve?? I’m sat.
ps: i’ve been following Elizabeth Sagan’s bookstagram for the last 7 years and she’s the one who recommended ‘The Invisible life of Addie LaRue’ and helped me come out of a major reading slump 3 years ago so I’ll read anything she comes out with
ps: i’ve been following Elizabeth Sagan’s bookstagram for the last 7 years and she’s the one who recommended ‘The Invisible life of Addie LaRue’ and helped me come out of a major reading slump 3 years ago so I’ll read anything she comes out with
July 8, 2026
3,5⭐️
Review of advanced readers copy from Netgalley
🪄First of all, I wanna thank Netgalley and the authors, James and Elizabeth, for trusting me with their baby.
“Gravespell” is their debut ya fantasy novel and I expect great stories from them.
This one was just the beginning…
🪄We’re thrown right into the action, from the very first chapter, is fast paced and you have to keep up with all the events, so you won’t miss a thing. That’s the catch here… if you don’t keep up, well… your loss…
Every chapter comes with another revelation or not? 🫢, the multiple perspectives offer different angles from which you can see the story. Who to trust or not trust, how relationships were build before the murder and after, because even though Alice, Ben, Delvy and Christopher have nothing in common but the fact that they’re all suspects in Xena’s murder, this four students unite to solve the mystery and prove that they’re innocent.
🪄Alice was my favorite character from this story. I liked her sarcasm, that she didn’t wanted to display an image of who she wasn’t or that she could easily be played as a fool. I liked the friendship she had with Vlad, the Romanian student, and that they trusted each other most of the times. I even liked her familiar, though i’m not a fan of snakes 🐍 🫣.
🪄I felt sorry for the others- Ben, Christopher and Delvy - because they were seen as nothing more than Xena’s something and it was expected from them to act in certain ways. They were caught in the middle of nastiness, and even though they proved they are trust worthy, there was always something that stood in their way.
🪄I liked the idea of the story, the mystery vibes, the Romanian references (it felt like a piece of home 🥰), but I wanted more of the magical world and from the found family trope. This is just a personal preference, not that it was something wrong with the story. I’m fond of the found family trope and I do want one built chef’s kiss when I stumble upon it on books.
🪄Another issue, if I can say like that, that I had, was with the characters’s ages. They were 15-16 years old, but acted like 18 years old, even had some lines that didn’t sound at all teenager like. And that confused me a couple of times while reading.
🪄The story was also predictable for me; I suspected some of the plots and that ruined the element of surprise, but I think this happened because I’ve read so many books over the years and there are few things that surprise me in books anymore.
🪄There were some moments when I had my heart in my throat, but I’m not gonna say when and where, because I want that you to have your heart pounding like crazy too 🤣.
🪄Even so, I do recommend with all my heart “Gravespell” and I’m looking forward to find out how the story will develop in the upcoming books, but also what the authors have prepared for the characters 🫢.
Review of advanced readers copy from Netgalley
🪄First of all, I wanna thank Netgalley and the authors, James and Elizabeth, for trusting me with their baby.
“Gravespell” is their debut ya fantasy novel and I expect great stories from them.
This one was just the beginning…
🪄We’re thrown right into the action, from the very first chapter, is fast paced and you have to keep up with all the events, so you won’t miss a thing. That’s the catch here… if you don’t keep up, well… your loss…
Every chapter comes with another revelation or not? 🫢, the multiple perspectives offer different angles from which you can see the story. Who to trust or not trust, how relationships were build before the murder and after, because even though Alice, Ben, Delvy and Christopher have nothing in common but the fact that they’re all suspects in Xena’s murder, this four students unite to solve the mystery and prove that they’re innocent.
🪄Alice was my favorite character from this story. I liked her sarcasm, that she didn’t wanted to display an image of who she wasn’t or that she could easily be played as a fool. I liked the friendship she had with Vlad, the Romanian student, and that they trusted each other most of the times. I even liked her familiar, though i’m not a fan of snakes 🐍 🫣.
🪄I felt sorry for the others- Ben, Christopher and Delvy - because they were seen as nothing more than Xena’s something and it was expected from them to act in certain ways. They were caught in the middle of nastiness, and even though they proved they are trust worthy, there was always something that stood in their way.
🪄I liked the idea of the story, the mystery vibes, the Romanian references (it felt like a piece of home 🥰), but I wanted more of the magical world and from the found family trope. This is just a personal preference, not that it was something wrong with the story. I’m fond of the found family trope and I do want one built chef’s kiss when I stumble upon it on books.
🪄Another issue, if I can say like that, that I had, was with the characters’s ages. They were 15-16 years old, but acted like 18 years old, even had some lines that didn’t sound at all teenager like. And that confused me a couple of times while reading.
🪄The story was also predictable for me; I suspected some of the plots and that ruined the element of surprise, but I think this happened because I’ve read so many books over the years and there are few things that surprise me in books anymore.
🪄There were some moments when I had my heart in my throat, but I’m not gonna say when and where, because I want that you to have your heart pounding like crazy too 🤣.
🪄Even so, I do recommend with all my heart “Gravespell” and I’m looking forward to find out how the story will develop in the upcoming books, but also what the authors have prepared for the characters 🫢.
July 5, 2026
I absolutely loved Gravespell
This was such a special read for me because it’s the first book I’ve ever read by Romanian authors, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience.
The writing is incredibly engaging and flows effortlessly, making it almost impossible to put the book down. The plot is well crafted, and I was genuinely surprised by several of the twists along the way. Every reveal felt earned, and the story kept me hooked from beginning to end.
While some of the character dynamics may feel familiar to fantasy readers, the authors managed to give them their own unique charm through thoughtful details and strong character moments.
My absolute favorite part, though, was the incorporation of Romanian folklore and superstitions. Those elements added so much atmosphere and made the world feel fresh and distinctive. As a Romanian reader, it was incredibly exciting to see pieces of my own culture woven so naturally into the story.
For a debut novel, Gravespell exceeded all of my expectations. I’m also incredibly proud to be part of this book’s Street Team and to support such a fantastic release.
If you’re looking for a fantasy with an engaging plot, unexpected twists, memorable characters, and a touch of Romanian folklore, I can’t recommend this one enough. I truly hope you’ll give it a chance—you won’t regret it!
This was such a special read for me because it’s the first book I’ve ever read by Romanian authors, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience.
The writing is incredibly engaging and flows effortlessly, making it almost impossible to put the book down. The plot is well crafted, and I was genuinely surprised by several of the twists along the way. Every reveal felt earned, and the story kept me hooked from beginning to end.
While some of the character dynamics may feel familiar to fantasy readers, the authors managed to give them their own unique charm through thoughtful details and strong character moments.
My absolute favorite part, though, was the incorporation of Romanian folklore and superstitions. Those elements added so much atmosphere and made the world feel fresh and distinctive. As a Romanian reader, it was incredibly exciting to see pieces of my own culture woven so naturally into the story.
For a debut novel, Gravespell exceeded all of my expectations. I’m also incredibly proud to be part of this book’s Street Team and to support such a fantastic release.
If you’re looking for a fantasy with an engaging plot, unexpected twists, memorable characters, and a touch of Romanian folklore, I can’t recommend this one enough. I truly hope you’ll give it a chance—you won’t regret it!
November 19, 2025
OMG I’LL BE UNBEARABLE WHEN I GET MY HANDS ON THIS
July 1, 2026
This book was everything I thought it would be and more. I expected a great, amazingly written book, but I did not know what the style would be like. I was nervous. I now understand I was nervous in anticipation of reading one of the best books I've ever read. And it's "only" their debut, SO CAN YOU IMAGINE?
The world building is exceptional. All the beautiful, magical ideas and concepts intertwine perfectly, creating this vibrant world full of like. I had moments when I wondered, what if it actually is real? What if underneath our feet, this vast world actually does exist!
The characters are wonderul, and I loved how real they felt. We have several POVs that are so thoroughly distinct that by the end of it, I had separate voices in my head for each character.
All of the characters have these well structured, developing arcs that are so naturally paced, that it sparked this joy of finally reading a fantasy book where the characters seem so real, that the world in itself becomes real.
--- POSSIBLE SPOILERS
The worldbuilding of the academy was incredible. The myths and legends, the imagery, from bioluminescent flowers and gargoyles to saying thank you to the ghosts preparing the meal. A joy. Exquisite.
I found my old self in the old Delvy, and then with each chapter she evolves and comes into herself, it reminded me so much of myself in the best, weirdest, possible way. I am so proud of her!
Ben is an innocent cutie patoot that went through too much and didn't deserve any of it. I hope he gets to kick several asses in the next book.
The slow burn, enemies to lovers trope was exceptionally cosy and cute. They don't jump their bones from the moment they see each other and I APPRECIATE THAT. Their chemistry grows and builds and I did giggle and kick my feet repeatedly. I also love Alice and Chris together. And individually. Alice is a badass, powerful mage, but humble. She doesn't know how cool she is. Chris is not afraid to open his eyes, look around him and make the hard decision. They're great people. I want to be part of their Coven of Death and Vlad.
Vlad. My brother Vlad, because we are both Romanians. Seeing our beautiful culture interwebbed in Liz and James's story was wonderful. From strigoi, blood spells and zacusca, to Baba Cloanta, Dochia and the Merry Cemetery (which I have to say is better in the book that in real life). It was brilliantly and cleverly done, and each romanian element (especially the deochi) made me smile and laugh. I also loved what a pivotal role Vlad had. As he should.
As for the most important part that impressed me and I did not expect, that would be the worldbuilding outside the academy. The way it mirrors our own world in beauty and cruelty. I wish i was told as a child that the world is full of wonders, but that evil exists. That there is corruption, and prejudice and pain. That there are people in power who always want more. The book reflected that, and more. It showed both the beauty and the flaws of the world we were introduced to. And i hope that as many young adults as possible will read this and realise what is most important in life. To not judge. To help one another. To be kind. Just like the lovely characters I had the honour to meet in this book.
Thank you, Liz and James, for creating this wonderful world. I cannot put this book in a top of something. It is unique for me, I will wear it in my soul from now on, like my most beloved books. And i cannot wait for the next one.
The world building is exceptional. All the beautiful, magical ideas and concepts intertwine perfectly, creating this vibrant world full of like. I had moments when I wondered, what if it actually is real? What if underneath our feet, this vast world actually does exist!
The characters are wonderul, and I loved how real they felt. We have several POVs that are so thoroughly distinct that by the end of it, I had separate voices in my head for each character.
All of the characters have these well structured, developing arcs that are so naturally paced, that it sparked this joy of finally reading a fantasy book where the characters seem so real, that the world in itself becomes real.
--- POSSIBLE SPOILERS
The worldbuilding of the academy was incredible. The myths and legends, the imagery, from bioluminescent flowers and gargoyles to saying thank you to the ghosts preparing the meal. A joy. Exquisite.
I found my old self in the old Delvy, and then with each chapter she evolves and comes into herself, it reminded me so much of myself in the best, weirdest, possible way. I am so proud of her!
Ben is an innocent cutie patoot that went through too much and didn't deserve any of it. I hope he gets to kick several asses in the next book.
The slow burn, enemies to lovers trope was exceptionally cosy and cute. They don't jump their bones from the moment they see each other and I APPRECIATE THAT. Their chemistry grows and builds and I did giggle and kick my feet repeatedly. I also love Alice and Chris together. And individually. Alice is a badass, powerful mage, but humble. She doesn't know how cool she is. Chris is not afraid to open his eyes, look around him and make the hard decision. They're great people. I want to be part of their Coven of Death and Vlad.
Vlad. My brother Vlad, because we are both Romanians. Seeing our beautiful culture interwebbed in Liz and James's story was wonderful. From strigoi, blood spells and zacusca, to Baba Cloanta, Dochia and the Merry Cemetery (which I have to say is better in the book that in real life). It was brilliantly and cleverly done, and each romanian element (especially the deochi) made me smile and laugh. I also loved what a pivotal role Vlad had. As he should.
As for the most important part that impressed me and I did not expect, that would be the worldbuilding outside the academy. The way it mirrors our own world in beauty and cruelty. I wish i was told as a child that the world is full of wonders, but that evil exists. That there is corruption, and prejudice and pain. That there are people in power who always want more. The book reflected that, and more. It showed both the beauty and the flaws of the world we were introduced to. And i hope that as many young adults as possible will read this and realise what is most important in life. To not judge. To help one another. To be kind. Just like the lovely characters I had the honour to meet in this book.
Thank you, Liz and James, for creating this wonderful world. I cannot put this book in a top of something. It is unique for me, I will wear it in my soul from now on, like my most beloved books. And i cannot wait for the next one.
December 4, 2025
Following you guys since 2017 on instagram! Can’t wait to read your books now!! 🥺🥰 so proud of you!!
November 19, 2025
The title and synopsis literally gives me goosebumps! I can't wait to read this book and I believe it will be something magnificent! 📖✨❤️ Let's gooo!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨ ARC review ✨
GRAVESPELL by Elisabeth Sagan & James Trevino
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I entered this world with a fear of the unknown, because I realized, since I started reading, that not everyone is good at writing such stories.
The description attracted me. I knew since I read it that I wanted to read the book. It seemed to be my taste. But what I read exceeded my expectations. It surprised me in a pleasant way. It was better than I imagined.
I can honestly say that I didn't expect to like it so much that I would only think about it. As soon as I read the first chapter, I was hooked. It captivated me and kept me anchored in the story until the end. It started at a critical moment and continued to revolve around that moment.
I became attached to some characters and some I came to love, after they made me curse at them at first 😅.
Alice is my favorite. I waited with bated breath for her perspective every time and she made me cry the most. I also liked her grandmother. Her whole family.
Christopher had his moment of glory when he managed to get closer to Alice gradually, although I couldn't trust him. He gave me a strange feeling, as if he was proving to be a real Crane.
Delvy was half-and-half. I felt sorry for her. She annoyed me, but then I came to love her, especially after reading more about her.
Ben was... I think he was the only one I loved from the beginning, besides Alice, without suspecting him. He didn't make me think at all that he had anything to do with what happened. And his story, his parents'... It helped with the image of innocence that I attributed to Ben.
I don't know what to say about Xena, without seeming I'm like her 😆. I couldn't love her. Only towards the end did I manage to understand her relationships and behavior towards others.
And I liked it when I found out about her and Ben and my heart broke for Ben.
It was easy for me to visualize every place and every action. I felt like I was a spectator beyond the Veil, but I could see through the Veil. And how much I was annoyed by some of the secondary characters... 😩
Even though I couldn't think so far ahead as to see anyone capable of murder.
Each chapter had its moment, because it took me by surprise and made me even more curious about what was to come.
We have magic, in the modern world. We have mages and voids. Other creatures like gargoyles and solomonaries (which are mentioned). The Moroi and the Strigoi and other creatures from Romania, creatures of fairy tales and legends, are often mentioned, especially as a lesson.
We have a mystery. We have a crime that needs to be solved and I admit that as the investigation of The Coven of Death progressed or not, I tried to solve the case with them.
It's a good thing that I'm a nerd, because I love mythology and fairy tales, especially Romanian ones. Because I was pleasantly surprised to find a few elements. And I didn't think they didn't do justice to those old stories at all. They were on point.
In addition to magic, which was interesting and thrilling to read about, we also have politics. Because someone hates anyone who is not strong, born, not taught.
I liked how the relationship between the 4 characters was formed. There was nothing forced. It took a few unfortunate events to make them get even closer. But I found it cute. Especially when two pairs were formed, to say like that. Each with their own pain, their own problems.
There are a few plot twists that I didn't expect at all. After I found the last one, I wanted to throw my phone out the window 💀, I really didn't expect something like this. Just like I didn't expect a revelation that surprised me and made me love at least a little bit a character that I couldn't like at first.
I liked how a relationship was formed and how it went. I also felt sorry for one character, because whatever he did, he didn't deserve what happened to him.
I made some theories and some of them I was right, even if not entirely. Because I didn't know how it happened or why. I assumed, after receiving some details related to both the case, but also to a certain grimoire.
GRAVESPELL by Elisabeth Sagan & James Trevino
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I entered this world with a fear of the unknown, because I realized, since I started reading, that not everyone is good at writing such stories.
The description attracted me. I knew since I read it that I wanted to read the book. It seemed to be my taste. But what I read exceeded my expectations. It surprised me in a pleasant way. It was better than I imagined.
I can honestly say that I didn't expect to like it so much that I would only think about it. As soon as I read the first chapter, I was hooked. It captivated me and kept me anchored in the story until the end. It started at a critical moment and continued to revolve around that moment.
I became attached to some characters and some I came to love, after they made me curse at them at first 😅.
Alice is my favorite. I waited with bated breath for her perspective every time and she made me cry the most. I also liked her grandmother. Her whole family.
Christopher had his moment of glory when he managed to get closer to Alice gradually, although I couldn't trust him. He gave me a strange feeling, as if he was proving to be a real Crane.
Delvy was half-and-half. I felt sorry for her. She annoyed me, but then I came to love her, especially after reading more about her.
Ben was... I think he was the only one I loved from the beginning, besides Alice, without suspecting him. He didn't make me think at all that he had anything to do with what happened. And his story, his parents'... It helped with the image of innocence that I attributed to Ben.
I don't know what to say about Xena, without seeming I'm like her 😆. I couldn't love her. Only towards the end did I manage to understand her relationships and behavior towards others.
And I liked it when I found out about her and Ben and my heart broke for Ben.
It was easy for me to visualize every place and every action. I felt like I was a spectator beyond the Veil, but I could see through the Veil. And how much I was annoyed by some of the secondary characters... 😩
Even though I couldn't think so far ahead as to see anyone capable of murder.
Each chapter had its moment, because it took me by surprise and made me even more curious about what was to come.
We have magic, in the modern world. We have mages and voids. Other creatures like gargoyles and solomonaries (which are mentioned). The Moroi and the Strigoi and other creatures from Romania, creatures of fairy tales and legends, are often mentioned, especially as a lesson.
We have a mystery. We have a crime that needs to be solved and I admit that as the investigation of The Coven of Death progressed or not, I tried to solve the case with them.
It's a good thing that I'm a nerd, because I love mythology and fairy tales, especially Romanian ones. Because I was pleasantly surprised to find a few elements. And I didn't think they didn't do justice to those old stories at all. They were on point.
In addition to magic, which was interesting and thrilling to read about, we also have politics. Because someone hates anyone who is not strong, born, not taught.
I liked how the relationship between the 4 characters was formed. There was nothing forced. It took a few unfortunate events to make them get even closer. But I found it cute. Especially when two pairs were formed, to say like that. Each with their own pain, their own problems.
There are a few plot twists that I didn't expect at all. After I found the last one, I wanted to throw my phone out the window 💀, I really didn't expect something like this. Just like I didn't expect a revelation that surprised me and made me love at least a little bit a character that I couldn't like at first.
I liked how a relationship was formed and how it went. I also felt sorry for one character, because whatever he did, he didn't deserve what happened to him.
I made some theories and some of them I was right, even if not entirely. Because I didn't know how it happened or why. I assumed, after receiving some details related to both the case, but also to a certain grimoire.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow... what a fantastic debut! I am genuinely so incredibly proud of James Trevino and Elizabeth Sagan for creating such a wonderful story together.
One of the things that impressed me the most was how seamlessly their writing blended. If I hadn't known this book had two authors, I never would have guessed. There were no noticeable changes in writing style or pacing, it all felt cohesive and flowed effortlessly from beginning to end.
The mystery was undoubtedly the strongest part of the book for me. It kept me guessing throughout, and I genuinely did not see the main twist coming. I absolutely loved being surprised because it doesn't happen very often anymore, and Gravespell completely delivered.
The magic system was another huge highlight. Yes, there are little touches that might remind readers of Harry Potter or Wednesday, but everything still feels incredibly fresh and original. The world-building was phenomenal, creating a magical school I would happily spend time exploring. Between the wickedly funny torches, Larry the biting desk, a wonderfully unique librarian, and the fact that they serve tiramisu at school... I mean, come on! What more could we ask for? 😂❤️
The story itself is just so entertaining. It flows effortlessly, making it one of those books where you keep turning pages without even realizing how much you've read. It was an absolute pleasure to get lost in.
The romance was also incredibly sweet and perfectly suited to the YA age of the characters. It never overshadowed the mystery, instead complementing the story beautifully, and I'm already looking forward to seeing how the relationships, both romantic and friendship ones, develop in the next book.
The cast was another strength, with every character bringing something memorable to the story. That said, Alice completely stole my heart. She's smart, snarky, authentic, and delightfully weird in the best possible way. I really hope we get even more of her in book two. And I honestly never thought I'd say this because I have a genuine snake phobia... but I absolutely adored Darling!
Finally, I have to mention the part that meant the most to me personally: the Romanian references, folklore, and, of course, Vlad. Every single one of those moments filled me with nostalgia and made me so grateful to see my culture represented with so much care in such a modern fantasy. It added an extra layer of magic to an already fantastic story and made this book even more special for me.
I'm forever grateful to have been part of the street team for this incredible debut. After that ending, I'm already counting down the days until we get news about book two because I need to know what happens next!
Thank you to the authors for entrusting me with your story in exchange for my honest review.
One of the things that impressed me the most was how seamlessly their writing blended. If I hadn't known this book had two authors, I never would have guessed. There were no noticeable changes in writing style or pacing, it all felt cohesive and flowed effortlessly from beginning to end.
The mystery was undoubtedly the strongest part of the book for me. It kept me guessing throughout, and I genuinely did not see the main twist coming. I absolutely loved being surprised because it doesn't happen very often anymore, and Gravespell completely delivered.
The magic system was another huge highlight. Yes, there are little touches that might remind readers of Harry Potter or Wednesday, but everything still feels incredibly fresh and original. The world-building was phenomenal, creating a magical school I would happily spend time exploring. Between the wickedly funny torches, Larry the biting desk, a wonderfully unique librarian, and the fact that they serve tiramisu at school... I mean, come on! What more could we ask for? 😂❤️
The story itself is just so entertaining. It flows effortlessly, making it one of those books where you keep turning pages without even realizing how much you've read. It was an absolute pleasure to get lost in.
The romance was also incredibly sweet and perfectly suited to the YA age of the characters. It never overshadowed the mystery, instead complementing the story beautifully, and I'm already looking forward to seeing how the relationships, both romantic and friendship ones, develop in the next book.
The cast was another strength, with every character bringing something memorable to the story. That said, Alice completely stole my heart. She's smart, snarky, authentic, and delightfully weird in the best possible way. I really hope we get even more of her in book two. And I honestly never thought I'd say this because I have a genuine snake phobia... but I absolutely adored Darling!
Finally, I have to mention the part that meant the most to me personally: the Romanian references, folklore, and, of course, Vlad. Every single one of those moments filled me with nostalgia and made me so grateful to see my culture represented with so much care in such a modern fantasy. It added an extra layer of magic to an already fantastic story and made this book even more special for me.
I'm forever grateful to have been part of the street team for this incredible debut. After that ending, I'm already counting down the days until we get news about book two because I need to know what happens next!
Thank you to the authors for entrusting me with your story in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✨GRAVESPELL✨ - review
💜 What is the release you can’t wait to see published or translated? Are you curious about this one? 💜
✨ Gravespell is one of the upcoming titles I’ve been thrilled about ever since I first heard its premise. Marketed as a blend of the Wednesday series and Harry Potter books, it was such a pleasant surprise to see that it truly lived up to the comparisons and provided the exact reading experience I needed at the perfect time.
✨️ The plot centers around solving a major mystery in a magical world. The American President's daughter within this fantastical realm is found dead, and the prime suspects are her current boyfriend, her ex, her best friend, and the girl who warned the victim about a fatal vision regarding her demise.
✨ I was kept on the edge of my seat from start to finish, completely intrigued by how everyone seemed guilty at first glance. Later on, it was fascinating to watch the four accused team up to prove their innocence and uncover the real perpetrator. But were they truly blameless? Hmm... I'll leave that for you to find out.
✨ The world-building and the fresh concepts introduced in a universe where magic alone should suffice absolutely captivated me. The seamless integration of modern technology and elements of Romanian folklore adds incredible depth to the overall setting.
✨ Have I mentioned how much I adored reading an English novel that heavily features Romanian culture?🥹 Well, let me tell you now! There are various aspects, some briefly referenced, while others take center stage, but everything was perfectly balanced.
✨ The ending delivered on all fronts, packed with plot twists and shocking turns of events that made me constantly second-guess my opinions about the characters. I suspected a few details, and some of my theories even proved accurate, but nowhere near the full picture, because nothing was as it seemed.
✨ Rivalries shift, and so do alliances. The suspense and mystery linger as reality begins to blur. As for the ending... it is specifically designed to shatter every single expectation you might have.
💜 Huge congratulations on this amazing book, Elizabeth and James! Thank you so much for the opportunity to be a part of the STREET TEAM! It was an absolute joy, and I am beyond thrilled that it culminated in yet another 5-star read.
💜 What is the release you can’t wait to see published or translated? Are you curious about this one? 💜
✨ Gravespell is one of the upcoming titles I’ve been thrilled about ever since I first heard its premise. Marketed as a blend of the Wednesday series and Harry Potter books, it was such a pleasant surprise to see that it truly lived up to the comparisons and provided the exact reading experience I needed at the perfect time.
✨️ The plot centers around solving a major mystery in a magical world. The American President's daughter within this fantastical realm is found dead, and the prime suspects are her current boyfriend, her ex, her best friend, and the girl who warned the victim about a fatal vision regarding her demise.
✨ I was kept on the edge of my seat from start to finish, completely intrigued by how everyone seemed guilty at first glance. Later on, it was fascinating to watch the four accused team up to prove their innocence and uncover the real perpetrator. But were they truly blameless? Hmm... I'll leave that for you to find out.
✨ The world-building and the fresh concepts introduced in a universe where magic alone should suffice absolutely captivated me. The seamless integration of modern technology and elements of Romanian folklore adds incredible depth to the overall setting.
✨ Have I mentioned how much I adored reading an English novel that heavily features Romanian culture?🥹 Well, let me tell you now! There are various aspects, some briefly referenced, while others take center stage, but everything was perfectly balanced.
✨ The ending delivered on all fronts, packed with plot twists and shocking turns of events that made me constantly second-guess my opinions about the characters. I suspected a few details, and some of my theories even proved accurate, but nowhere near the full picture, because nothing was as it seemed.
✨ Rivalries shift, and so do alliances. The suspense and mystery linger as reality begins to blur. As for the ending... it is specifically designed to shatter every single expectation you might have.
💜 Huge congratulations on this amazing book, Elizabeth and James! Thank you so much for the opportunity to be a part of the STREET TEAM! It was an absolute joy, and I am beyond thrilled that it culminated in yet another 5-star read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect going into Gravespell, especially since magic systems involving wands aren't usually my favourite. However, this book surprised me in the best possible way.
One of the things I loved most was how quickly the story begins. Within just a few pages, something major happens, and from that moment on the book never really slows down. There isn't a long introduction explaining every detail of the world before the story starts. Instead, you're thrown straight into the action, which immediately caught my attention and made it difficult to put the book down.
I also really enjoyed the multiple points of view. They allowed me to understand each character's motivations and see the same events through different perspectives. It added depth to the story and made the relationships between the characters feel much more dynamic.
The pacing was another highlight for me. There was always something happening, and every chapter left me wanting to know what would happen next. I found myself constantly questioning everyone's motives, trying to figure out who could be trusted and where the mystery was leading. The suspense kept me engaged from beginning to end.
One of my favourite aspects of the book was watching the relationships between the characters evolve. Seeing complete strangers slowly grow into people who were willing to risk everything for one another felt natural and rewarding. Their development was one of the strongest parts of the story.
The ending tied everything together in a satisfying way. I appreciated that the final events felt meaningful and that the characters' choices carried lasting consequences rather than feeling pointless.
While there were a few moments where I wished certain scenes had been explored in more depth, they didn't take away from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Overall, Gravespell was an exciting debut that kept me turning the pages. I'm definitely curious to see where the story goes next and look forward to reading more from Elizabeth and James Trevino.
One of the things I loved most was how quickly the story begins. Within just a few pages, something major happens, and from that moment on the book never really slows down. There isn't a long introduction explaining every detail of the world before the story starts. Instead, you're thrown straight into the action, which immediately caught my attention and made it difficult to put the book down.
I also really enjoyed the multiple points of view. They allowed me to understand each character's motivations and see the same events through different perspectives. It added depth to the story and made the relationships between the characters feel much more dynamic.
The pacing was another highlight for me. There was always something happening, and every chapter left me wanting to know what would happen next. I found myself constantly questioning everyone's motives, trying to figure out who could be trusted and where the mystery was leading. The suspense kept me engaged from beginning to end.
One of my favourite aspects of the book was watching the relationships between the characters evolve. Seeing complete strangers slowly grow into people who were willing to risk everything for one another felt natural and rewarding. Their development was one of the strongest parts of the story.
The ending tied everything together in a satisfying way. I appreciated that the final events felt meaningful and that the characters' choices carried lasting consequences rather than feeling pointless.
While there were a few moments where I wished certain scenes had been explored in more depth, they didn't take away from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Overall, Gravespell was an exciting debut that kept me turning the pages. I'm definitely curious to see where the story goes next and look forward to reading more from Elizabeth and James Trevino.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of Advanced Readers Copy from Netgalley
Thank you so much to Netgalley and James and Elizabeth for sharing their debut with me as an eARC! This was a majorly anticipated read for 2027 and I'm so glad I got to read it so early.
If you love the aesthetic and mysteries of Wednesday, modern magic schools and high stakes magical worlds, add Gravespell to your TBR!
This reads like an entire season of an alternative universe Wednesday. I felt like I was being pulled down the dark twisting halls of Deepgrove, head first into intrigue and action. Getting whiplash from every new piece of information or secret that came to light. Each time a character suggested a suspect and gave their reasoning I was like “Yup that makes sense. It’s got to be them!” This happened over and over and I felt like I was being led astray at every turn.
The multiple POVs made it easy for me to connect with our main characters and their motivations. They also thickened the plot and left me unable to trust anyone, even them. I was definitely questioning if we had a case of unreliable narration. Except when it came to my girl Alice and little sassy Darling.
The magic system was easy to understand and OMG the lore/symbolism around the olden-wands was so beautiful and had me tearing up at several points.
The plot twist at the end? Right in the heart! I had figured out many of the pieces but the weaving of them all together through the writing made for such an emotional impact. These characters really went through it. I particularly love when a plot twist is big but makes sense. Not something that comes out of left field but something that was built up intentionally over the course of the book and then BAM the pieces connect for full effect. All the bread crumbs are there for you to follow but you second guess yourself and wonder “but why? How?” And in the reveal and you feel equal parts vindicated and wow’d.
This was a wonderful debut! I can't wait to see where book two takes us with the characters and their magical world! I'm so grateful to be part of this book’s Street Team and to have been able to support the release of Gravespell.
Favorite characters:
Alice and Darling
Favorite quotes/Lines:
“I beg to differ,” Christopher says, giving a cocky smile.
“Then beg,” I deadpan. -Alice <3 (my girl!)
“When he goes low, I go to hell” - Vlad (freaking love this guy)
“Hex” and “Hexing” as a constant swear throughout
Thank you so much to Netgalley and James and Elizabeth for sharing their debut with me as an eARC! This was a majorly anticipated read for 2027 and I'm so glad I got to read it so early.
If you love the aesthetic and mysteries of Wednesday, modern magic schools and high stakes magical worlds, add Gravespell to your TBR!
This reads like an entire season of an alternative universe Wednesday. I felt like I was being pulled down the dark twisting halls of Deepgrove, head first into intrigue and action. Getting whiplash from every new piece of information or secret that came to light. Each time a character suggested a suspect and gave their reasoning I was like “Yup that makes sense. It’s got to be them!” This happened over and over and I felt like I was being led astray at every turn.
The multiple POVs made it easy for me to connect with our main characters and their motivations. They also thickened the plot and left me unable to trust anyone, even them. I was definitely questioning if we had a case of unreliable narration. Except when it came to my girl Alice and little sassy Darling.
The magic system was easy to understand and OMG the lore/symbolism around the olden-wands was so beautiful and had me tearing up at several points.
The plot twist at the end? Right in the heart! I had figured out many of the pieces but the weaving of them all together through the writing made for such an emotional impact. These characters really went through it. I particularly love when a plot twist is big but makes sense. Not something that comes out of left field but something that was built up intentionally over the course of the book and then BAM the pieces connect for full effect. All the bread crumbs are there for you to follow but you second guess yourself and wonder “but why? How?” And in the reveal and you feel equal parts vindicated and wow’d.
This was a wonderful debut! I can't wait to see where book two takes us with the characters and their magical world! I'm so grateful to be part of this book’s Street Team and to have been able to support the release of Gravespell.
Favorite characters:
Alice and Darling
Favorite quotes/Lines:
“I beg to differ,” Christopher says, giving a cocky smile.
“Then beg,” I deadpan. -Alice <3 (my girl!)
“When he goes low, I go to hell” - Vlad (freaking love this guy)
“Hex” and “Hexing” as a constant swear throughout
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
✦ TLDR ✦
Gravespell is fast-paced and full of banter. We are thrown in right from chapter one with lots of mysteries to untangle. With multiple POVs, the writing stays fresh and interesting and I had a lot of fun reading this! There are a lot of little seeds laid out that hint at the twists, which I love when authors do that. There was plenty of world-building, magic system building and character development and overall I think it quite a well balanced book. The only reason I didn't rate this the full 5 stars is because I figured things out pretty quick, so I think some of the little seeds made the twists a little too obvious, so I wasn't very surprised when they happened.
✦ Writing ✦
Despite being written by two authors, you wouldn't know, the writing is so cohesive and sounds like one voice. I applaud this because in other books I have read by double authors have a very distinct voice change.
The world and magic building was incredible, I could picture everything so vividly and I love the uniqueness of the world. Little concepts like thanking your plate were quirky and fun and really set this apart from other books in the genre.
✦ Pacing ✦
This was a fast-paced book, you are thrown in straight from chapter one and it pretty much doesn't stop from there, you only get a chapter of down time here and there. I know that isn't everyone's cup of tea but I love it, it keeps you on the edge and I couldn't put the book down!
✦ Characters ✦
The characters were so well written, each voice was distinct and unique and had their own growth. I really enjoyed all the POVs, I have a soft spot for Alice, she is my favourite just because she is so sarcastic and practical. But the other characters had their own little things that made me love them.
I would like to thank Elizabeth and James for the opportunity to be part of the street team and read an advanced copy of this incredible book. Thank-you also to NetGalley and the crew at Sourcebooks Fire for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✦ TLDR ✦
Gravespell is fast-paced and full of banter. We are thrown in right from chapter one with lots of mysteries to untangle. With multiple POVs, the writing stays fresh and interesting and I had a lot of fun reading this! There are a lot of little seeds laid out that hint at the twists, which I love when authors do that. There was plenty of world-building, magic system building and character development and overall I think it quite a well balanced book. The only reason I didn't rate this the full 5 stars is because I figured things out pretty quick, so I think some of the little seeds made the twists a little too obvious, so I wasn't very surprised when they happened.
✦ Writing ✦
Despite being written by two authors, you wouldn't know, the writing is so cohesive and sounds like one voice. I applaud this because in other books I have read by double authors have a very distinct voice change.
The world and magic building was incredible, I could picture everything so vividly and I love the uniqueness of the world. Little concepts like thanking your plate were quirky and fun and really set this apart from other books in the genre.
✦ Pacing ✦
This was a fast-paced book, you are thrown in straight from chapter one and it pretty much doesn't stop from there, you only get a chapter of down time here and there. I know that isn't everyone's cup of tea but I love it, it keeps you on the edge and I couldn't put the book down!
✦ Characters ✦
The characters were so well written, each voice was distinct and unique and had their own growth. I really enjoyed all the POVs, I have a soft spot for Alice, she is my favourite just because she is so sarcastic and practical. But the other characters had their own little things that made me love them.
I would like to thank Elizabeth and James for the opportunity to be part of the street team and read an advanced copy of this incredible book. Thank-you also to NetGalley and the crew at Sourcebooks Fire for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I must admit I was hesitant to start it. It is rare, at least in my experience, to stumble upon a book that sets magic in the modern world without losing some of its charm, but my, was I in for a surprise.
James and Elizabeth have woven a story that blends magic with technology in a seamless, natural way, bringing up mythical places and witchcraft in a way that actually makes you wonder if there isn't some hidden truth behind it all.
Each character was carefully brought to life, with their own strengths and flaws, making it hard to suspect one more than the other along the way. The genuine moments and the comedic relief scattered throughout sometimes make you forget that the fate of both the magical and human worlds is at stake. But I guess that really does capture what being sixteen is like, doesn't it?
To keep it short and spoiler-free, this was a fun, light, engaging read that left me wanting more. Some parts did feel a little rushed, especially the romantic moments, some bits were pretty easy to figure out, and I would have loved to dig deeper into the relationships our protagonists have with the other students. However, I feel there is still so much more to be told about everyone involved, and that we are in for a wild ride.
On a more personal note, this book made me feel like I was seven again, discovering Angie Sage's Magyk or watching Harry Potter for the first time. Maybe it was just a coincidence, maybe it was the authors' love for that book shining through, but it gave me that eerie feeling of being pulled into a world of magic in a way few books can. It made me feel like I wasn't just reading about that world, but secretly watching it unfold from the corners of their rooms (just like a resident bug on the wall. 😏)
Many thanks to the authors for making it possible to get an early e-ARC and I cannot wait so find the books in bookstores and receive news about the next books.
James and Elizabeth have woven a story that blends magic with technology in a seamless, natural way, bringing up mythical places and witchcraft in a way that actually makes you wonder if there isn't some hidden truth behind it all.
Each character was carefully brought to life, with their own strengths and flaws, making it hard to suspect one more than the other along the way. The genuine moments and the comedic relief scattered throughout sometimes make you forget that the fate of both the magical and human worlds is at stake. But I guess that really does capture what being sixteen is like, doesn't it?
To keep it short and spoiler-free, this was a fun, light, engaging read that left me wanting more. Some parts did feel a little rushed, especially the romantic moments, some bits were pretty easy to figure out, and I would have loved to dig deeper into the relationships our protagonists have with the other students. However, I feel there is still so much more to be told about everyone involved, and that we are in for a wild ride.
On a more personal note, this book made me feel like I was seven again, discovering Angie Sage's Magyk or watching Harry Potter for the first time. Maybe it was just a coincidence, maybe it was the authors' love for that book shining through, but it gave me that eerie feeling of being pulled into a world of magic in a way few books can. It made me feel like I wasn't just reading about that world, but secretly watching it unfold from the corners of their rooms (just like a resident bug on the wall. 😏)
Many thanks to the authors for making it possible to get an early e-ARC and I cannot wait so find the books in bookstores and receive news about the next books.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
A huge thank you to the authors and NetGalley for an ARC of this book!
If you love dark academia, elite wizarding schools, and highly complex murder mysteries, Gravespell needs to be on your TBR list immediately.
Think Wednesday meets One of Us Is Lying.
Right from the opening pages, a brutal murder sets off a ticking clock that threatens to plunge the magical world into an all-out war. The story is told through multiple first-person POVs, which I absolutely loved.
The authors did a fantastic job ensuring that every single perspective offers crucial background details about the other suspects, Deepgrove Academy, and the magical lore.
The mystery itself is incredibly clever. It gets more and more tangled the further you read. Every single time I thought I had a definitive lead, a massive plot twist completely upended my theories and sent me back to square one. You definitely need your thinking cap on for this one!
As a Romanian reader, my favorite surprise was seeing Romanian folklore and traditions included. Hearing mentions of coliva (whichby the way YUM 😋), deochi, and strigoi felt so authentic and made me feel right at home.
I’m giving this a solid 4 stars—the only thing holding me back from a perfect 5 was that I wanted even more of the magical world-building explored.
Still, it’s a phenomenal start to a new trilogy. Also, can we talk about how gorgeous the US cover and those sprayed edges are?! I’m so curious to see what the UK cover is going to look like!
Can't wait for the next book! 🥰
A huge thank you to the authors and NetGalley for an ARC of this book!
If you love dark academia, elite wizarding schools, and highly complex murder mysteries, Gravespell needs to be on your TBR list immediately.
Think Wednesday meets One of Us Is Lying.
Right from the opening pages, a brutal murder sets off a ticking clock that threatens to plunge the magical world into an all-out war. The story is told through multiple first-person POVs, which I absolutely loved.
The authors did a fantastic job ensuring that every single perspective offers crucial background details about the other suspects, Deepgrove Academy, and the magical lore.
The mystery itself is incredibly clever. It gets more and more tangled the further you read. Every single time I thought I had a definitive lead, a massive plot twist completely upended my theories and sent me back to square one. You definitely need your thinking cap on for this one!
As a Romanian reader, my favorite surprise was seeing Romanian folklore and traditions included. Hearing mentions of coliva (whichby the way YUM 😋), deochi, and strigoi felt so authentic and made me feel right at home.
I’m giving this a solid 4 stars—the only thing holding me back from a perfect 5 was that I wanted even more of the magical world-building explored.
Still, it’s a phenomenal start to a new trilogy. Also, can we talk about how gorgeous the US cover and those sprayed edges are?! I’m so curious to see what the UK cover is going to look like!
Can't wait for the next book! 🥰
July 25, 2026
Rating: 3.5 / 5 ⭐️
A huge thank you to James Trebino and Elizabeth Sagan for providing a copy of Gravespell! It was a real pleasure to step into the world they’ve built together.
First off, the writing in this book is absolutely exquisite. From the very first page, the prose is atmospheric, vivid, and deeply immersive. The authors have a brilliant way with words, and the opening chapters hooked me immediately.
What I loved most, though, was the character work especially Alice and Christopher. I adored Alice from the moment she appeared on the page, her personality, voice, and presence made her an absolute stand-out character for me. Christopher was equally wonderful, and their depth, dynamic, and individual arcs gave the narrative so much heart and energy.
To be completely honest, a few small details kept this from being an absolute top favorite for me. The characters felt a bit too mature for their specified ages—their dialogue, mindset, and choices made it hard not to picture them as 18- or 19-year-olds. Additionally, after such a strong start, the pacing lost a bit of momentum in the middle, and I found myself feeling slightly bored during a few slower sections. I also found myself wishing for a larger cast of side characters and more interactions beyond the main focus, though I'm hopeful and excited to see the world and cast expand in the upcoming volumes!
Overall, Gravespell is a remarkably well-crafted story filled with talent, gorgeous writing, and unforgettable characters like Alice and Christopher. I am so grateful to the authors for the opportunity to read it, and I can't wait to see where the story goes next!🤗🤍
A huge thank you to James Trebino and Elizabeth Sagan for providing a copy of Gravespell! It was a real pleasure to step into the world they’ve built together.
First off, the writing in this book is absolutely exquisite. From the very first page, the prose is atmospheric, vivid, and deeply immersive. The authors have a brilliant way with words, and the opening chapters hooked me immediately.
What I loved most, though, was the character work especially Alice and Christopher. I adored Alice from the moment she appeared on the page, her personality, voice, and presence made her an absolute stand-out character for me. Christopher was equally wonderful, and their depth, dynamic, and individual arcs gave the narrative so much heart and energy.
To be completely honest, a few small details kept this from being an absolute top favorite for me. The characters felt a bit too mature for their specified ages—their dialogue, mindset, and choices made it hard not to picture them as 18- or 19-year-olds. Additionally, after such a strong start, the pacing lost a bit of momentum in the middle, and I found myself feeling slightly bored during a few slower sections. I also found myself wishing for a larger cast of side characters and more interactions beyond the main focus, though I'm hopeful and excited to see the world and cast expand in the upcoming volumes!
Overall, Gravespell is a remarkably well-crafted story filled with talent, gorgeous writing, and unforgettable characters like Alice and Christopher. I am so grateful to the authors for the opportunity to read it, and I can't wait to see where the story goes next!🤗🤍
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley.
Huge thank you to Elizabeth and James for letting me read this before release — I feel really lucky to have gotten an early glimpse into this story. 💜
This ended up being a 4⭐ read for me, and honestly, it was such a fun ride!
✨ I found something to enjoy in every character, but Vlad Cantemir definitely stood out — he’s the one who brought in those amazing romanian elements that made the story feel so unique and magical. I also really liked Alice and overall all the characters were relatable.
✨ The worldbuilding felt bold, inventive and very original. You can really tell how much work and care went into building this world and the authors are clearly very creative!
✨ I only guessed a small part of the plot twist, while the rest completely surprised me, which made the experience even better! There were also a few action-heavy scenes that genuinely had me on the edge of my seat.
✨ If I had one small wish, it would have been to see more of the enemies-to-lovers dynamic, I feel like the transition could have been explored a bit more and we could’ve had even more banter.
✨ Overall, it’s a fun, creative, and well-written story that I think a lot of readers will enjoy. I’m really excited to see what happens in the next book!
✨ I absolutely love seeing Romania represented in international fantasy! 💜 Elizabeth and James, you did great!
Huge thank you to Elizabeth and James for letting me read this before release — I feel really lucky to have gotten an early glimpse into this story. 💜
This ended up being a 4⭐ read for me, and honestly, it was such a fun ride!
✨ I found something to enjoy in every character, but Vlad Cantemir definitely stood out — he’s the one who brought in those amazing romanian elements that made the story feel so unique and magical. I also really liked Alice and overall all the characters were relatable.
✨ The worldbuilding felt bold, inventive and very original. You can really tell how much work and care went into building this world and the authors are clearly very creative!
✨ I only guessed a small part of the plot twist, while the rest completely surprised me, which made the experience even better! There were also a few action-heavy scenes that genuinely had me on the edge of my seat.
✨ If I had one small wish, it would have been to see more of the enemies-to-lovers dynamic, I feel like the transition could have been explored a bit more and we could’ve had even more banter.
✨ Overall, it’s a fun, creative, and well-written story that I think a lot of readers will enjoy. I’m really excited to see what happens in the next book!
✨ I absolutely love seeing Romania represented in international fantasy! 💜 Elizabeth and James, you did great!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Gravespell was my most anticipated 2027 release. I've been following @elizabeth_sagan and @james_trevino for years and I'm so happy their dream is finally coming true. I had the honor to help with the cover reveal and Elizabeth and James surprised us with a very early eArc! Of course, I immediately started reading and I loved it!
It's a YA fantasy that combines your classic magic school with a suspenseful murder mystery. This blend of genres happens seamlessly and had me on the edge of my seat. I truly couldn't stop reading! The writing is fluent and at times quite visual, which i liked. The characters were a nice group, as well. Each character had their own little quirks, but they also had a fun chemistry together. Furthermore, the story was good. I'd expected the magic system to be a bit more complex, but it's actually quite nice that it isn't too difficult and often refers to things from our own world. This makes it a perfect book for younger readers who are at the start of their reading journey. Perhaps I would've liked to see a bit more details here and there, but I can't deny that this is a wonderful debut! I truly can't wait to read more from these two lovely people. Put Gravespell on your wishlist immediately!
Out April 6, 2027
It's a YA fantasy that combines your classic magic school with a suspenseful murder mystery. This blend of genres happens seamlessly and had me on the edge of my seat. I truly couldn't stop reading! The writing is fluent and at times quite visual, which i liked. The characters were a nice group, as well. Each character had their own little quirks, but they also had a fun chemistry together. Furthermore, the story was good. I'd expected the magic system to be a bit more complex, but it's actually quite nice that it isn't too difficult and often refers to things from our own world. This makes it a perfect book for younger readers who are at the start of their reading journey. Perhaps I would've liked to see a bit more details here and there, but I can't deny that this is a wonderful debut! I truly can't wait to read more from these two lovely people. Put Gravespell on your wishlist immediately!
Out April 6, 2027
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Povestea ne poartă într-o academie de magie unde o crimă amenință să declanșeze un război, iar un grup de studenți, fiecare cu propriile secrete, încearcă să descopere adevărul înainte să fie prea târziu. .
Pur și simplu am devorat această carte. De la primele pagini am fost atrasă într-o lume în care magia, misterul și secretele se împletesc perfect, iar fiecare capitol aduce noi întrebări și noi suspiciuni. În momentul în care credeam că am descoperit adevărul, apărea o nouă răsturnare de situație care schimba complet tot ce credeam că știu.
Mi-a plăcut enorm ritmul poveștii. Nu există momente în care să simți că acțiunea stagnează, iar misterul este construit atât de bine încât pur și simplu nu poți lăsa cartea din mână. Este genul acela de lectură care te face să spui „încă un capitol”, iar înainte să-ți dai seama ai ajuns la final.
Un detaliu care m-a bucurat enorm a fost menționarea României și a unor obiceiuri din folclorul nostru. A fost atât de frumos să regăsesc astfel de elemente într-o poveste fantasy și mi s-a părut că au fost integrate într-un mod firesc și plin de farmec.
Iar finalul... wow. Nu m-aș fi așteptat niciodată la o rezolvare atât de complexă. Toate piesele puzzle-ului s-au așezat perfect, iar ultimele capitole m-au lăsat complet fără cuvinte.
Pur și simplu am devorat această carte. De la primele pagini am fost atrasă într-o lume în care magia, misterul și secretele se împletesc perfect, iar fiecare capitol aduce noi întrebări și noi suspiciuni. În momentul în care credeam că am descoperit adevărul, apărea o nouă răsturnare de situație care schimba complet tot ce credeam că știu.
Mi-a plăcut enorm ritmul poveștii. Nu există momente în care să simți că acțiunea stagnează, iar misterul este construit atât de bine încât pur și simplu nu poți lăsa cartea din mână. Este genul acela de lectură care te face să spui „încă un capitol”, iar înainte să-ți dai seama ai ajuns la final.
Un detaliu care m-a bucurat enorm a fost menționarea României și a unor obiceiuri din folclorul nostru. A fost atât de frumos să regăsesc astfel de elemente într-o poveste fantasy și mi s-a părut că au fost integrate într-un mod firesc și plin de farmec.
Iar finalul... wow. Nu m-aș fi așteptat niciodată la o rezolvare atât de complexă. Toate piesele puzzle-ului s-au așezat perfect, iar ultimele capitole m-au lăsat complet fără cuvinte.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book had everything I dreamed of: a well structured story, relatable characters who are deeply flawed yet impossible not to root for as they slowly unravel, an original and fascinating magic system, a divided society, and plenty of mystery and fun.
I loved the pacing. As the story unfolds, your hands almost seem to morph into the device you're reading on, as if the magic is bleeding into our world and pulling you right into the middle of a bloody, strange murder investigation.
I adored the character arcs and all the irresistible tropes, but most of all, I loved how quickly I grew attached to the characters, despite only knowing them through the pages. Vlad has a special place in my heart because he's Romanian, and he brings such a unique charm to the story. I especially loved seeing how naturally his Eastern European identity was woven into the world. Every reference to Romanian, and even broader Balkan, folklore felt like a gift.
The magic system is brilliant, the tropes are the cherry on top, and the ending leaves you staring at a wall, thinking, Damn... this is really good. Maybe even my best read of the year.
I can't express how badly I need more of this universe or how much I wish I could attend Deepgrove Academy of Magic.
I loved the pacing. As the story unfolds, your hands almost seem to morph into the device you're reading on, as if the magic is bleeding into our world and pulling you right into the middle of a bloody, strange murder investigation.
I adored the character arcs and all the irresistible tropes, but most of all, I loved how quickly I grew attached to the characters, despite only knowing them through the pages. Vlad has a special place in my heart because he's Romanian, and he brings such a unique charm to the story. I especially loved seeing how naturally his Eastern European identity was woven into the world. Every reference to Romanian, and even broader Balkan, folklore felt like a gift.
The magic system is brilliant, the tropes are the cherry on top, and the ending leaves you staring at a wall, thinking, Damn... this is really good. Maybe even my best read of the year.
I can't express how badly I need more of this universe or how much I wish I could attend Deepgrove Academy of Magic.
Want to Read
July 11, 20263.75/5 rounded up to 4
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC!
Gravespell presents an intriguing world with themes that feel increasingly relevant. I especially appreciated the larger conflict in the story: the authors' exploration of corporate exploitation of public resources, technological advancement at the expense of humanity, and the ways displacement and discrimination shape both individuals and society.
Where the novel fell a bit short for me was in its characters. While the world and overarching themes were compelling, I never felt fully connected to them. Their motivations and emotional arcs didn't always receive enough development, making it difficult to become invested in their journeys.
The relationships also lacked the depth I was hoping for. Whether romantic or platonic, the interpersonal dynamics felt underexplored.
Overall, Gravespell is a thought provoking fantasy with ambitious overarching ideas and timely social commentary. Although I wanted stronger character work and more emotionally resonant relationships, it a worthwhile read.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC!
Gravespell presents an intriguing world with themes that feel increasingly relevant. I especially appreciated the larger conflict in the story: the authors' exploration of corporate exploitation of public resources, technological advancement at the expense of humanity, and the ways displacement and discrimination shape both individuals and society.
Where the novel fell a bit short for me was in its characters. While the world and overarching themes were compelling, I never felt fully connected to them. Their motivations and emotional arcs didn't always receive enough development, making it difficult to become invested in their journeys.
The relationships also lacked the depth I was hoping for. Whether romantic or platonic, the interpersonal dynamics felt underexplored.
Overall, Gravespell is a thought provoking fantasy with ambitious overarching ideas and timely social commentary. Although I wanted stronger character work and more emotionally resonant relationships, it a worthwhile read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First, thank you to Elizabeth and James for giving me the chance to read this book before publication.
Gravespell is possibly the cure for most reading slumps. It is easy to read, very dialogue-driven, and full of enough twists to keep my wandering mind focused. I also really enjoyed the multiple points of view, because they made it easier to understand each character’s motivations and to see the same events through different perspectives. The narrators also felt distinct enough that it was usually easy to tell whose voice I was following.
One of the things I liked most was the way the book approaches wand magic, especially the contrast between classic and neo wands. I found the idea of tech-like wands with spells pre-installed really interesting, especially because the book makes it clear that while neo wands are easier to use, they can never truly compare to a classic wand that grows alongside its user over time. I also loved the idea that a wand is never really finished, just like a wizard’s life.
The book is also full of Romanian folklore, which makes sense given the authors, and I have to say that I think this aspect will be even more enjoyable for Romanian readers once the translated edition is available.
Another thing I appreciated was the way the story touches on how corporate greed and exploitation can slowly destroy communities. I thought that theme was woven into the story in an interesting way.
In terms of the characters, I have to admit that I did not fully connect with most of them, maybe with the exception of the snake familiar, who was probably my favorite. I felt like several of the character arcs were drawn in a fairly direct line from who they were to who they were becoming, and I personally did not fully see the redemption arc that so many readers seem to love.
Overall, though, this is a promising debut, and I think it has a lot of elements that will work especially well for readers looking for something fast-paced, magical, and easy to get into.
Gravespell is possibly the cure for most reading slumps. It is easy to read, very dialogue-driven, and full of enough twists to keep my wandering mind focused. I also really enjoyed the multiple points of view, because they made it easier to understand each character’s motivations and to see the same events through different perspectives. The narrators also felt distinct enough that it was usually easy to tell whose voice I was following.
One of the things I liked most was the way the book approaches wand magic, especially the contrast between classic and neo wands. I found the idea of tech-like wands with spells pre-installed really interesting, especially because the book makes it clear that while neo wands are easier to use, they can never truly compare to a classic wand that grows alongside its user over time. I also loved the idea that a wand is never really finished, just like a wizard’s life.
The book is also full of Romanian folklore, which makes sense given the authors, and I have to say that I think this aspect will be even more enjoyable for Romanian readers once the translated edition is available.
Another thing I appreciated was the way the story touches on how corporate greed and exploitation can slowly destroy communities. I thought that theme was woven into the story in an interesting way.
In terms of the characters, I have to admit that I did not fully connect with most of them, maybe with the exception of the snake familiar, who was probably my favorite. I felt like several of the character arcs were drawn in a fairly direct line from who they were to who they were becoming, and I personally did not fully see the redemption arc that so many readers seem to love.
Overall, though, this is a promising debut, and I think it has a lot of elements that will work especially well for readers looking for something fast-paced, magical, and easy to get into.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
STOP SCROLLING because I just found your next 5-star obsession! 😁
Elizabeth and James did an absolutely phenomenal job and I am beyond thrilled and 100% sure that this book is going to be the next big thing! I am incredibly honored to have had the chance to play even a small part in their amazing success story. I just know that years from now, when this series wraps up and is wildly popular, I’ll be so incredibly proud to look back and say I got to read the ARC of the debut volume 🥹
What I completely adored was the constant nod to Romania, its customs, traditions, and even famous landmarks, masterfully woven into a magic school setting. We’ve got fantasy, thriller and romance, all blended together flawlessly! I was totally clueless about the culprit and couldn’t come up with a single theory, I was right there with the characters, completely blown away by every single twist and turn! The characters growth is stunning, you feel their desires and motivations so deeply, and you just can't help but fall in love with every single one of them.The ending left me a bit mind blown and confused, but dying to jump into the next book immediately, so it absolutely nailed its mission!
Elizabeth and James did an absolutely phenomenal job and I am beyond thrilled and 100% sure that this book is going to be the next big thing! I am incredibly honored to have had the chance to play even a small part in their amazing success story. I just know that years from now, when this series wraps up and is wildly popular, I’ll be so incredibly proud to look back and say I got to read the ARC of the debut volume 🥹
What I completely adored was the constant nod to Romania, its customs, traditions, and even famous landmarks, masterfully woven into a magic school setting. We’ve got fantasy, thriller and romance, all blended together flawlessly! I was totally clueless about the culprit and couldn’t come up with a single theory, I was right there with the characters, completely blown away by every single twist and turn! The characters growth is stunning, you feel their desires and motivations so deeply, and you just can't help but fall in love with every single one of them.The ending left me a bit mind blown and confused, but dying to jump into the next book immediately, so it absolutely nailed its mission!
July 8, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book got me out of the worst reading slump of my life and I absolutely loved it! I was hooked from the very first page, and the pacing never let up.
I kept guessing who the killer was right until the end. Also, for such a funny book that made me laugh out loud so many times, there's one particular scene that made me cry my eyes out and gave me goosebumps.
The characters are masterfully realised, the romance works without overshadowing the plot, but what stood out the most to me was the worldbuilding. From magic corporations to wands and spells sold on a subscription model, to the overexploitation of magic and its consequences, everything felt so fresh.
Extra points for an ending that was both deeply satisfying and left me desperate to read the next book. I can't wait to see what comes next.
This book got me out of the worst reading slump of my life and I absolutely loved it! I was hooked from the very first page, and the pacing never let up.
I kept guessing who the killer was right until the end. Also, for such a funny book that made me laugh out loud so many times, there's one particular scene that made me cry my eyes out and gave me goosebumps.
The characters are masterfully realised, the romance works without overshadowing the plot, but what stood out the most to me was the worldbuilding. From magic corporations to wands and spells sold on a subscription model, to the overexploitation of magic and its consequences, everything felt so fresh.
Extra points for an ending that was both deeply satisfying and left me desperate to read the next book. I can't wait to see what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I absolutely loved Gravespell by James Trevino and Elizabeth Sagan. It was such a thrilling experience!
From the very first chapter, I was completely captivated. The story wasted no time getting straight into the plot. Reading about the magic school and the fantastical elements gave me a feeling so similar to when I first read Harry Potter; joy and fascination, but the story was truly unique. With literally every chapter, I found myself speculating and suspecting a new character.
I did not expect that ending at all, nor did I expect to tear up and get so emotional at times. While the ending answers the major questions, there are still a lot of unknowns, including the fate of certain people.
Gravespell releases in April 6th, 2027, so sadly, I have a long wait to hear about book two. But, I absolutely cannot wait!
I absolutely loved Gravespell by James Trevino and Elizabeth Sagan. It was such a thrilling experience!
From the very first chapter, I was completely captivated. The story wasted no time getting straight into the plot. Reading about the magic school and the fantastical elements gave me a feeling so similar to when I first read Harry Potter; joy and fascination, but the story was truly unique. With literally every chapter, I found myself speculating and suspecting a new character.
I did not expect that ending at all, nor did I expect to tear up and get so emotional at times. While the ending answers the major questions, there are still a lot of unknowns, including the fate of certain people.
Gravespell releases in April 6th, 2027, so sadly, I have a long wait to hear about book two. But, I absolutely cannot wait!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
a book that tells a standalone story????? WHAT IS THIS SORCERY
very pleased that despite looking like it's the start of a series, we get a set-up AND resolution in the SAME BOOK, OMG, CAN WE NORMALIZE THIS PLZ.
this was a wee bit too YA in some parts ('oh no, I can't possibly tell someone in charge, the responsibility to save the world lies solely on my shoulders'), but that's totally fine given this is a YA book.
I really enjoyed the characters (Delvy had unexpected depth that I didn't see coming for the girl obsessed with looks), the world-building was really interesting (although I'm not sure how voids are just....kept underground forever) and the plot was super engrossing. great execution, neat plot twists, lovely relationships (romantic & platonic, I was honestly more here for the friendships) - I had a wonderful time reading this!
very pleased that despite looking like it's the start of a series, we get a set-up AND resolution in the SAME BOOK, OMG, CAN WE NORMALIZE THIS PLZ.
this was a wee bit too YA in some parts ('oh no, I can't possibly tell someone in charge, the responsibility to save the world lies solely on my shoulders'), but that's totally fine given this is a YA book.
I really enjoyed the characters (Delvy had unexpected depth that I didn't see coming for the girl obsessed with looks), the world-building was really interesting (although I'm not sure how voids are just....kept underground forever) and the plot was super engrossing. great execution, neat plot twists, lovely relationships (romantic & platonic, I was honestly more here for the friendships) - I had a wonderful time reading this!
December 3, 2025
Beneath the modern world, a hidden society of wizards stands on the brink of war. At its heart lies the wondrous Deepgrove Academy, buried deep underground. As corporations strip magic for profit and power, with disastrous consequences, a group of students is drawn into a saga of mystery, murder, and mayhem when they’re accused of kíllíng the daughter of the American President of Magic.
Doesn’t this sound just amazing? Well, I might be biased because I’m one of the authors, haha. But if you give my little heart’s story a chance, I really hope you’ll enjoy it. Thank you, and happy reading!
Doesn’t this sound just amazing? Well, I might be biased because I’m one of the authors, haha. But if you give my little heart’s story a chance, I really hope you’ll enjoy it. Thank you, and happy reading!
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