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An Arcane Education: A Dark Academia Romantasy
Not yet published
Expected 20 Jul 26
An Arcane Education is a dark academia romance with fantasy elements, a slow burn professor/student relationship, atmospheric gothic vibes, and found family. Perfect for fans of Nocticadia, Gothikana, and Blood & Betrayals.
Magic. Wealth. Beauty. Reputation.
Here, all of them amount to the one thing everyone Power.
Welcome to Arcadia Academy. Trust no one.
The day I’m attacked is the day I discover magic is real – and I have the power to wield it.
Two days after the incident, I receive an invitation to the graduate program at Arcadia Academy, an elite, mysterious school of magic hidden on an island somewhere off the coast of the Pacific Northwest. With the courage to finally leave behind the mundane life of responsibility I never asked for, I enroll at the prestigious institution, determined to find my place and prove myself.
Unfortunately, my goal isn’t as simple as it seems. New to the world of magic, years behind my classmates, and struggling to control my powers, I’m barely surviving – until the strict, enigmatic, and devastatingly handsome Professor Alaric Vale offers to tutor me. But the longer we spend together, the harder it becomes to deny the forbidden spark burning between us.
Furthermore, not everything is as it seems at Arcadia Academy, with its crawling ivy, ancient stone buildings, and dense forests shrouded in fog. Everyone has secrets to hide, some darker than others. Darker still are the strange plant aberrations occurring in the depths of the forest – ones seemingly related to Professor Vale’s suspicious top-secret research.
When my personal investigations lead to me becoming the talk of campus as a primary suspect in another student’s death, I’m forced to prove my innocence, all while learning to control my magic, concealing the secrets I share with Professor Vale, and uncovering a shocking mystery related to my own past.
Magic. Wealth. Beauty. Reputation.
Here, all of them amount to the one thing everyone Power.
Welcome to Arcadia Academy. Trust no one.
The day I’m attacked is the day I discover magic is real – and I have the power to wield it.
Two days after the incident, I receive an invitation to the graduate program at Arcadia Academy, an elite, mysterious school of magic hidden on an island somewhere off the coast of the Pacific Northwest. With the courage to finally leave behind the mundane life of responsibility I never asked for, I enroll at the prestigious institution, determined to find my place and prove myself.
Unfortunately, my goal isn’t as simple as it seems. New to the world of magic, years behind my classmates, and struggling to control my powers, I’m barely surviving – until the strict, enigmatic, and devastatingly handsome Professor Alaric Vale offers to tutor me. But the longer we spend together, the harder it becomes to deny the forbidden spark burning between us.
Furthermore, not everything is as it seems at Arcadia Academy, with its crawling ivy, ancient stone buildings, and dense forests shrouded in fog. Everyone has secrets to hide, some darker than others. Darker still are the strange plant aberrations occurring in the depths of the forest – ones seemingly related to Professor Vale’s suspicious top-secret research.
When my personal investigations lead to me becoming the talk of campus as a primary suspect in another student’s death, I’m forced to prove my innocence, all while learning to control my magic, concealing the secrets I share with Professor Vale, and uncovering a shocking mystery related to my own past.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication July 20, 2026
About the author
Lyla Andrews
15 books104 followersLyla is a steamy romance author and loves to write stories involving characters with realistic and complex problems, whether familial, romantic, mental health-related, or otherwise.
She is obsessed with everything cozy: rainy days, candles, blankets, watching the Twilight series on repeat (🐀), and--of course--curling up with a good book.
Raised in the semi-rural Midwest, she spent a few years hopping around after college before settling in North Carolina with her husband and their feisty black cat.
Lyla can be found on all social media platforms @lylaandrewsauthor.
She is obsessed with everything cozy: rainy days, candles, blankets, watching the Twilight series on repeat (🐀), and--of course--curling up with a good book.
Raised in the semi-rural Midwest, she spent a few years hopping around after college before settling in North Carolina with her husband and their feisty black cat.
Lyla can be found on all social media platforms @lylaandrewsauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 8, 2026
Damn. I hadn’t read a book in 10 days, even though I usually read every day and then I devoured this in less than 16 hours. This reminded me exactly why I love dark academia.
I absolutely loved Vivian’s character growth. She went from putting everyone else first to finally choosing herself and standing up for herself and i absolutely love that for her. I also adored the little found family she built with the girls and AJ. They were completely ride or die for each other and I was literally smiling by the end because of their friendship.
As for Alaric, give me more academic MMCs. In a world full of morally grey shadow daddies, I need more intellectual plant daddies. He had just the right amount of mystery surrounding him and I found myself eager to learn more. I’d never read a professor x student romance before but their relationship developed naturally and I never felt like he had took advantage of his position. The tension was definitely tensioning.
One of the biggest reasons I love dark academia is the underlying mystery and this book absolutely delivered. Without spoiling anything, there was a murder and several disappearances spanning a couple decades. While we got some answers, the central mystery is still very much alive and I’m already compiling theories about what’s really happening at Arcadia.
I also really enjoyed the magic system. I loved that both main characters had plant based magic and the worldbuilding was fantastic. Lyla’s knowledge of botany really shines through, whether it’s from personal passion or extensive research. It made the magic and story feel unique and believable.
It doesn’t end on a brutal cliffhanger, but it definitely left me eager to see where this story goes next.
I absolutely loved Vivian’s character growth. She went from putting everyone else first to finally choosing herself and standing up for herself and i absolutely love that for her. I also adored the little found family she built with the girls and AJ. They were completely ride or die for each other and I was literally smiling by the end because of their friendship.
As for Alaric, give me more academic MMCs. In a world full of morally grey shadow daddies, I need more intellectual plant daddies. He had just the right amount of mystery surrounding him and I found myself eager to learn more. I’d never read a professor x student romance before but their relationship developed naturally and I never felt like he had took advantage of his position. The tension was definitely tensioning.
One of the biggest reasons I love dark academia is the underlying mystery and this book absolutely delivered. Without spoiling anything, there was a murder and several disappearances spanning a couple decades. While we got some answers, the central mystery is still very much alive and I’m already compiling theories about what’s really happening at Arcadia.
I also really enjoyed the magic system. I loved that both main characters had plant based magic and the worldbuilding was fantastic. Lyla’s knowledge of botany really shines through, whether it’s from personal passion or extensive research. It made the magic and story feel unique and believable.
It doesn’t end on a brutal cliffhanger, but it definitely left me eager to see where this story goes next.
July 12, 2026
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. I’m going to be honest, I usually let indie Romantasy books gain some traction before I pick them up, as I’ve been disappointed A LOT. I read the synopsis about this one though, and I don’t know, I didn’t want to wait. I’m so glad I didn’t! I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
This is a dark academia Romantasy with a unique magic system, lyrical writing, solid world building, and a professor/student forbidden romance. It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger, but not a devastating one. Still, I’m excited for book two.
What I liked so much about this was the mystery aspect. This book takes you in a lot of directions, but they’re all tied together at the end, which I really liked. At first I kind of thought, “mmm… this may be too much”, but once it all came together, it worked. Then, you have the characters. I liked them all and the “found family” aspect. I also can’t wait to find out more about some of the shadier professors. I really want to understand the hostility, because I feel like there’s going to be a twist there…
My only complaint, and it’s small to be honest, but it kept me from rating it 5 stars, was the romance. I LOVE the professor/student trope, and while I liked both the FMC and MMC in this book, I really wanted more tension and the “fighting against their feelings” kind of intensity here. That’s the best part in a forbidden romance. This one came together in a more… wholesome way… I guess that would be the only way I could describe it. It wasn’t bad, but I would have liked more here. This is single POV and maybe that made it more difficult to really extend the characters’ torment. 🤷🏼♀️
Overall, this was a super enjoyable read and I can’t wait for book 2!
4 stars!
This is a dark academia Romantasy with a unique magic system, lyrical writing, solid world building, and a professor/student forbidden romance. It does end on a bit of a cliffhanger, but not a devastating one. Still, I’m excited for book two.
What I liked so much about this was the mystery aspect. This book takes you in a lot of directions, but they’re all tied together at the end, which I really liked. At first I kind of thought, “mmm… this may be too much”, but once it all came together, it worked. Then, you have the characters. I liked them all and the “found family” aspect. I also can’t wait to find out more about some of the shadier professors. I really want to understand the hostility, because I feel like there’s going to be a twist there…
My only complaint, and it’s small to be honest, but it kept me from rating it 5 stars, was the romance. I LOVE the professor/student trope, and while I liked both the FMC and MMC in this book, I really wanted more tension and the “fighting against their feelings” kind of intensity here. That’s the best part in a forbidden romance. This one came together in a more… wholesome way… I guess that would be the only way I could describe it. It wasn’t bad, but I would have liked more here. This is single POV and maybe that made it more difficult to really extend the characters’ torment. 🤷🏼♀️
Overall, this was a super enjoyable read and I can’t wait for book 2!
4 stars!
July 10, 2026
4.5🌟
This one absolutely tickled my fancy.
The eerie dark academia vibes were immaculate. I swear I could feel the cold, wet, rainy Pacific Northwest atmosphere seeping through the story. The academy itself gave me the perfect mix of Wednesday and Harry Potter, but with its own unique identity. The descriptions were so vivid that the beauty of the school came alive in my head.
The pacing was fantastic. Fast enough to keep me completely hooked while still taking the time to build the world and immerse you in every detail.
I absolutely adored the FMC. She felt so genuine and relatable, especially during her vulnerable moments. She was strong without being overpowered, humble without feeling weak, and her maturity in the way she handled everything really stood out. It was so refreshing to read.
And the spice? Whew… it had me panting. It definitely was quality over quantity, and I loved that.
Now I desperately need book two. I can’t wait to unravel all the mysteries this story has set up, but if I’m being honest, what I’m most excited about is getting another romance between two of the other MMCs. I am so here for it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC, I couldn’t put it down 🪴
This one absolutely tickled my fancy.
The eerie dark academia vibes were immaculate. I swear I could feel the cold, wet, rainy Pacific Northwest atmosphere seeping through the story. The academy itself gave me the perfect mix of Wednesday and Harry Potter, but with its own unique identity. The descriptions were so vivid that the beauty of the school came alive in my head.
The pacing was fantastic. Fast enough to keep me completely hooked while still taking the time to build the world and immerse you in every detail.
I absolutely adored the FMC. She felt so genuine and relatable, especially during her vulnerable moments. She was strong without being overpowered, humble without feeling weak, and her maturity in the way she handled everything really stood out. It was so refreshing to read.
And the spice? Whew… it had me panting. It definitely was quality over quantity, and I loved that.
Now I desperately need book two. I can’t wait to unravel all the mysteries this story has set up, but if I’m being honest, what I’m most excited about is getting another romance between two of the other MMCs. I am so here for it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC, I couldn’t put it down 🪴
July 14, 2026
ARC Review-
I was intimidated by it being a “dark academia” book, as it’s not a genre I’m overly familiar with, but I was so happy to get this opportunity! I’m so glad I took it because this book is so great in every way, the storyline had me hooked from the very beginning. I resonate with Vivian so much, myself being a recovering people pleaser, and her self discovery and ability to choose herself is so inspiring!
I was intimidated by it being a “dark academia” book, as it’s not a genre I’m overly familiar with, but I was so happy to get this opportunity! I’m so glad I took it because this book is so great in every way, the storyline had me hooked from the very beginning. I resonate with Vivian so much, myself being a recovering people pleaser, and her self discovery and ability to choose herself is so inspiring!
Review of advance copy received from Author
📚🖊️📖An Arcane Education: A Dark Academia Romantasy 🖤 by Lyla Andrews 📓✏️🎓
Genre: Dark Academia Romantasy 🖤🎓🌲
If you are obsessed with elite magical schools, forbidden romance, and dangerous secrets, you need to add An Arcane Education by Lyla Andrews to your TBR immediately! 📚✨
Here is why this dark academy romance completely reels then hooks you in:
🏛️ Welcome to an Arcadia Academy 🤫
As soon as the story starts, we’re introduced to Vivian Harver our MFC, her mother Vivian, special needs brother Christopher, 12 y/o brother Matty and stepdad, Dave. Vivian works in a nursery with plants, although she has a bachelor’s degree and botany and would love to be doing something more. Unfortunately, her obligations with helping out her family take precedence. Now Imagine discovering magic is real only after you are suddenly attacked. 💥 That is exactly what happens to our MFC! Two days after the incident, she receives a mysterious invitation to the elite graduate program at Arcadia Academy—a prestigious, hidden school located on an island somewhere off the coast of the Pacific Northwest.
🌊🌲 Leaving her mundane life behind, she enrolls to find her place and prove her worth. But in a world where magic, wealth, and reputation equal power. 💎💸
🔥 The Forbidden Spark & The Enigmatic Professor 🖤
Being years behind her classmates means our heroine is barely surviving—until the strict, enigmatic, and devastatingly handsome Professor Alaric Vale steps in to tutor her. 🥵🧪 The chemistry is absolute perfection! The longer they spend together, the harder it becomes to deny the forbidden spark burning between them.
Vivian makes some friends which seems to have been hard for her back home with all of her responsibilities. Her first friend AJ who is a flirt, but harmless, her roommate Max and the other girls: Callista, Delilah, Avery form her friend circle. I just love a strong and loyal group of friends. We defiantly have the classic mean girl thrown in there, because we simply can’t have an academy story without one.
🌲 Secrets, and Plant Aberrations 🥀
The atmosphere in this book is top-tier dark academia. Think ancient stone buildings on an isolated island, Creepy forest on one side and rock & cliff faced beach on the other. 🌫️🏰 But underneath the beautiful facade lies serious danger:
• Some people on campus are hiding dark secrets. 🤫
• Strange, terrifying plant aberrations are occurring deep in the forest. 🌿⚠️
• Creepiest of all? These bizarre mutations seem directly related to Professor Vale’s suspicious, top-secret research... 👀🧬
• Who is or was Vivians father, really?
🕵️♀️ Murder, Mystery, and a Shocking Past 🩸
Just when things couldn't get more intense, a student is found dead—and our heroine's personal investigations land her right at the top of the suspect list! 😱 She is then forced to play a high-stakes game:
1. Prove her absolute innocence to the school and council. ⚖️
2. Conceal the deep secrets she now shares with Professor Vale and roommate. 🤫❤️
3. Uncover a shocking mystery that links the academy directly to her own past! 🔍🧩
This is a true academy story. It focuses on Vivians classes and her daily life at the academy, learning and controlling her magic, navigating classes, making new friends, uncovering secrets connecting to her father and finding out who she is as a person and what she wants out of life without being a caregiver for her brother Christopher. If you’re looking for a nonstop thrill, ride, full of conspiracies and murder or hot & steamy romance in the first half of the book then you won’t find it here.
However…….. hear me out!
Around the 50% mark you start to get into the flirtatious tension between our MFC and MMC. Yes, there are sexual scenes for those naughty readers lol. But that’s not all we’ve got. There are a few mysteries and conspiracies going on. It really kicks into high gear around the 70% mark and at that point I couldn’t stop turning the pages in rapid succession.
📝 Final Verdict a strong 3.8 stars⭐⭐⭐✨
An Arcane Education delivers a delightfully atmospheric, suspenseful, and romance-packed ride! If you love a good "student-teacher" forbidden tension trope mixed with a thrilling murder mystery and creepy magical botany, you will devour this. 📖🖤 the book ends on a mild cliffhanger, so I’m not dying without jumping right into the next book, but I am eagerly anticipating it.
I received an advanced readers copy directly from the Office sign-up page. I'm so glad to have discovered Layla Andrews. I'm now curious about her other books.
Genre: Dark Academia Romantasy 🖤🎓🌲
If you are obsessed with elite magical schools, forbidden romance, and dangerous secrets, you need to add An Arcane Education by Lyla Andrews to your TBR immediately! 📚✨
Here is why this dark academy romance completely reels then hooks you in:
🏛️ Welcome to an Arcadia Academy 🤫
As soon as the story starts, we’re introduced to Vivian Harver our MFC, her mother Vivian, special needs brother Christopher, 12 y/o brother Matty and stepdad, Dave. Vivian works in a nursery with plants, although she has a bachelor’s degree and botany and would love to be doing something more. Unfortunately, her obligations with helping out her family take precedence. Now Imagine discovering magic is real only after you are suddenly attacked. 💥 That is exactly what happens to our MFC! Two days after the incident, she receives a mysterious invitation to the elite graduate program at Arcadia Academy—a prestigious, hidden school located on an island somewhere off the coast of the Pacific Northwest.
🌊🌲 Leaving her mundane life behind, she enrolls to find her place and prove her worth. But in a world where magic, wealth, and reputation equal power. 💎💸
🔥 The Forbidden Spark & The Enigmatic Professor 🖤
Being years behind her classmates means our heroine is barely surviving—until the strict, enigmatic, and devastatingly handsome Professor Alaric Vale steps in to tutor her. 🥵🧪 The chemistry is absolute perfection! The longer they spend together, the harder it becomes to deny the forbidden spark burning between them.
Vivian makes some friends which seems to have been hard for her back home with all of her responsibilities. Her first friend AJ who is a flirt, but harmless, her roommate Max and the other girls: Callista, Delilah, Avery form her friend circle. I just love a strong and loyal group of friends. We defiantly have the classic mean girl thrown in there, because we simply can’t have an academy story without one.
🌲 Secrets, and Plant Aberrations 🥀
The atmosphere in this book is top-tier dark academia. Think ancient stone buildings on an isolated island, Creepy forest on one side and rock & cliff faced beach on the other. 🌫️🏰 But underneath the beautiful facade lies serious danger:
• Some people on campus are hiding dark secrets. 🤫
• Strange, terrifying plant aberrations are occurring deep in the forest. 🌿⚠️
• Creepiest of all? These bizarre mutations seem directly related to Professor Vale’s suspicious, top-secret research... 👀🧬
• Who is or was Vivians father, really?
🕵️♀️ Murder, Mystery, and a Shocking Past 🩸
Just when things couldn't get more intense, a student is found dead—and our heroine's personal investigations land her right at the top of the suspect list! 😱 She is then forced to play a high-stakes game:
1. Prove her absolute innocence to the school and council. ⚖️
2. Conceal the deep secrets she now shares with Professor Vale and roommate. 🤫❤️
3. Uncover a shocking mystery that links the academy directly to her own past! 🔍🧩
This is a true academy story. It focuses on Vivians classes and her daily life at the academy, learning and controlling her magic, navigating classes, making new friends, uncovering secrets connecting to her father and finding out who she is as a person and what she wants out of life without being a caregiver for her brother Christopher. If you’re looking for a nonstop thrill, ride, full of conspiracies and murder or hot & steamy romance in the first half of the book then you won’t find it here.
However…….. hear me out!
Around the 50% mark you start to get into the flirtatious tension between our MFC and MMC. Yes, there are sexual scenes for those naughty readers lol. But that’s not all we’ve got. There are a few mysteries and conspiracies going on. It really kicks into high gear around the 70% mark and at that point I couldn’t stop turning the pages in rapid succession.
📝 Final Verdict a strong 3.8 stars⭐⭐⭐✨
An Arcane Education delivers a delightfully atmospheric, suspenseful, and romance-packed ride! If you love a good "student-teacher" forbidden tension trope mixed with a thrilling murder mystery and creepy magical botany, you will devour this. 📖🖤 the book ends on a mild cliffhanger, so I’m not dying without jumping right into the next book, but I am eagerly anticipating it.
I received an advanced readers copy directly from the Office sign-up page. I'm so glad to have discovered Layla Andrews. I'm now curious about her other books.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book literally cured my reading slump
the goods:
spice 2.5/5
professor x student
magic (ofc)
strong character development
Let me start by getting my only 2 grievance with the book out of the way: I felt like there were big time jumps in the book that felt important for the plot development. Something would happen between our MC’s and then the chapter ends and the start of the next one is weeks later. I feel like small jumps would have been tolerable and unnoticeable but several weeks jumping at a time felt a little off.
The second simply being I wished some of our secondary characters got a little more spotlight. I understand they are secondary characters for a reason and not everyone is super important in the story, but it seemed like everyone directly affected our FMC pretty heavily and a little more “screen time” for them would have been nice to see.
NOW let me tell you everything I loved and devoured in this book:
Our MC’s are so interesting - Vivian is a late bloomer when it comes to magic and comes to learn she has it pretty tragically. Since she came to having magic later in life obviously she’s behind compared to her peers. Which, I am SO glad the author didn’t instantly make her amazing at magic and made it feel so realistic with the ups and downs of her trying, failing and succeeding. - Alaric is a lil shady at the beginning but you instantly start to swoon for him nonetheless. He’s very “nerdy” in a sense but in a charming way.
I also particularly love how well all of the scenery is portrayed, it genuinely felt like i was just watching a movie instead of reading which how graphic and well described everything was. From the stoney cold castles, to the coast and to the library, everything was perfectly illuminated for us readers to get an exact image in our heads.
I was kept on the edge of my seat when the mystery of Vivian’s father came into play! It came completely out of left field for me and pleasantly surprised me. It felt like a puzzle piece sliding into place to fully understand everything going on.
With that mystery and all of the other plot twists that happen throughout the story, it thankfully and annoyingly leaves us on a bit of a cliffhanger. Thankfully because we get more of our MC’s and get to dive back into this cold stoney academic setting but annoyingly because now we have to wait for it!
the goods:
spice 2.5/5
professor x student
magic (ofc)
strong character development
Let me start by getting my only 2 grievance with the book out of the way: I felt like there were big time jumps in the book that felt important for the plot development. Something would happen between our MC’s and then the chapter ends and the start of the next one is weeks later. I feel like small jumps would have been tolerable and unnoticeable but several weeks jumping at a time felt a little off.
The second simply being I wished some of our secondary characters got a little more spotlight. I understand they are secondary characters for a reason and not everyone is super important in the story, but it seemed like everyone directly affected our FMC pretty heavily and a little more “screen time” for them would have been nice to see.
NOW let me tell you everything I loved and devoured in this book:
Our MC’s are so interesting - Vivian is a late bloomer when it comes to magic and comes to learn she has it pretty tragically. Since she came to having magic later in life obviously she’s behind compared to her peers. Which, I am SO glad the author didn’t instantly make her amazing at magic and made it feel so realistic with the ups and downs of her trying, failing and succeeding. - Alaric is a lil shady at the beginning but you instantly start to swoon for him nonetheless. He’s very “nerdy” in a sense but in a charming way.
I also particularly love how well all of the scenery is portrayed, it genuinely felt like i was just watching a movie instead of reading which how graphic and well described everything was. From the stoney cold castles, to the coast and to the library, everything was perfectly illuminated for us readers to get an exact image in our heads.
I was kept on the edge of my seat when the mystery of Vivian’s father came into play! It came completely out of left field for me and pleasantly surprised me. It felt like a puzzle piece sliding into place to fully understand everything going on.
With that mystery and all of the other plot twists that happen throughout the story, it thankfully and annoyingly leaves us on a bit of a cliffhanger. Thankfully because we get more of our MC’s and get to dive back into this cold stoney academic setting but annoyingly because now we have to wait for it!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First, thank you to BookFunnel and the author for the ARC!
Dark academia is quickly becoming one of my favorite genres. There's just something about the whole vibe. Fantasy, but make it creepy and mysterious enough that you're always waiting to see what's around the next corner. That said, this definitely leaned more cozy than dark, which I still enjoyed. If I had to compare it to gaming, this is the cozy game you binge for hours, not too intense or complex.
I really did enjoy the story overall, but it was also...pretty damn predictable.
Since this is an ARC, I always expect a few typos and there were a couple. No big deal. There was also a character name mix-up though, and those are the ones that always annoy me because they should've been caught. It's little stuff like that that pulls me out of the story, so I always mention it in ARC reviews.
The bigger thing for me was the reveals.
The professor romance immediately gave me Zodiac Academy vibes...and that's not a compliment.
Then you've got Vivian acting absolutely floored that Alaric is fae. Girl...who else did you think was going to the academy where they literally told you the fae tend to go? We already knew fae existed. We already knew where they generally attended school. We already knew Alaric was from there. We already knew about the whole truth-telling thing. And then he's described looking exactly how you'd picture a fae. Literally no one reading this was surprised except Vivian.
Same with when she acts shocked about his...size...when they finally sleep together. Ma'am. You already had it in your mouth. Why are we acting like this is brand new information?
Those moments just made her feel less observant than she should've been, and it kind of took me out of it because none of it felt like a genuine reveal.
All that said...I still burned through this in a day, and I'm currently reading another series, so that's saying something. I really liked Vivian's friend group, the writing was easy to get into, and it was just a fun, cozy fantasy read. Predictable? Sure. But still enjoyable enough that I'd absolutely read the next book.
Dark academia is quickly becoming one of my favorite genres. There's just something about the whole vibe. Fantasy, but make it creepy and mysterious enough that you're always waiting to see what's around the next corner. That said, this definitely leaned more cozy than dark, which I still enjoyed. If I had to compare it to gaming, this is the cozy game you binge for hours, not too intense or complex.
I really did enjoy the story overall, but it was also...pretty damn predictable.
Since this is an ARC, I always expect a few typos and there were a couple. No big deal. There was also a character name mix-up though, and those are the ones that always annoy me because they should've been caught. It's little stuff like that that pulls me out of the story, so I always mention it in ARC reviews.
The bigger thing for me was the reveals.
The professor romance immediately gave me Zodiac Academy vibes...and that's not a compliment.
Then you've got Vivian acting absolutely floored that Alaric is fae. Girl...who else did you think was going to the academy where they literally told you the fae tend to go? We already knew fae existed. We already knew where they generally attended school. We already knew Alaric was from there. We already knew about the whole truth-telling thing. And then he's described looking exactly how you'd picture a fae. Literally no one reading this was surprised except Vivian.
Same with when she acts shocked about his...size...when they finally sleep together. Ma'am. You already had it in your mouth. Why are we acting like this is brand new information?
Those moments just made her feel less observant than she should've been, and it kind of took me out of it because none of it felt like a genuine reveal.
All that said...I still burned through this in a day, and I'm currently reading another series, so that's saying something. I really liked Vivian's friend group, the writing was easy to get into, and it was just a fun, cozy fantasy read. Predictable? Sure. But still enjoyable enough that I'd absolutely read the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
Themes:
Dark Academia 🏰🖤
Professor/Student 📖😍
Found Family 🧑🧑🧒🧒💕
Summary:
The day I’m attacked is the day I discover magic is real – and I have the power to wield it. Two days after the incident, I receive an invitation to the graduate program at Arcadia Academy, an elite, mysterious school of magic hidden on an island somewhere off the coast of the Pacific Northwest. With the courage to finally leave behind the mundane life of responsibility I never asked for, I enroll at the prestigious institution, determined to find my place and prove myself. Unfortunately, my goal isn’t as simple as it seems. New to the world of magic, years behind my classmates, and struggling to control my powers, I’m barely surviving – until the strict, enigmatic, and devastatingly handsome Professor Alaric Vale offers to tutor me. But the longer we spend together, the harder it becomes to deny the forbidden spark burning between us. Furthermore, not everything is as it seems at Arcadia Academy, with its crawling ivy, ancient stone buildings, and dense forests shrouded in fog. Everyone has secrets to hide, some darker than others. Darker still are the strange plant aberrations occurring in the depths of the forest – ones seemingly related to Professor Vale’s suspicious top-secret research. When my personal investigations lead to me becoming the talk of campus as a primary suspect in another student’s death, I’m forced to prove my innocence, all while learning to control my magic, concealing the secrets I share with Professor Vale, and uncovering a shocking mystery related to my own past.
Review:
This book was amazing! The FMC learns she has magical powers after she attacked and end up being invited to a magical academy for magic users. She is having to learn that magic is real and ends up falling for her professor, who is as dreamy as he is suspicious. This book was intriguing and had an amazing storyline. It was an easy read! If you love mysteries and magic this is for you!! Can’t wait for more.
Favorite Quote:
“You're worth every secret, every sacrifice, and every risk”
Thank you to Lyla Andrews for the gifted eARC
Spice: 🌶️ 🌶️
Themes:
Dark Academia 🏰🖤
Professor/Student 📖😍
Found Family 🧑🧑🧒🧒💕
Summary:
The day I’m attacked is the day I discover magic is real – and I have the power to wield it. Two days after the incident, I receive an invitation to the graduate program at Arcadia Academy, an elite, mysterious school of magic hidden on an island somewhere off the coast of the Pacific Northwest. With the courage to finally leave behind the mundane life of responsibility I never asked for, I enroll at the prestigious institution, determined to find my place and prove myself. Unfortunately, my goal isn’t as simple as it seems. New to the world of magic, years behind my classmates, and struggling to control my powers, I’m barely surviving – until the strict, enigmatic, and devastatingly handsome Professor Alaric Vale offers to tutor me. But the longer we spend together, the harder it becomes to deny the forbidden spark burning between us. Furthermore, not everything is as it seems at Arcadia Academy, with its crawling ivy, ancient stone buildings, and dense forests shrouded in fog. Everyone has secrets to hide, some darker than others. Darker still are the strange plant aberrations occurring in the depths of the forest – ones seemingly related to Professor Vale’s suspicious top-secret research. When my personal investigations lead to me becoming the talk of campus as a primary suspect in another student’s death, I’m forced to prove my innocence, all while learning to control my magic, concealing the secrets I share with Professor Vale, and uncovering a shocking mystery related to my own past.
Review:
This book was amazing! The FMC learns she has magical powers after she attacked and end up being invited to a magical academy for magic users. She is having to learn that magic is real and ends up falling for her professor, who is as dreamy as he is suspicious. This book was intriguing and had an amazing storyline. It was an easy read! If you love mysteries and magic this is for you!! Can’t wait for more.
Favorite Quote:
“You're worth every secret, every sacrifice, and every risk”
Thank you to Lyla Andrews for the gifted eARC
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC gifted in exchange for review
15 stars, no notes!
Listen, I love a good dark academia books and this was one of the most enjoyable ones I've read in a hot minute. I was absolutely hooked from page 1. Vivian is a tired eldest daughter who has spent her whole life putting everyone else's needs ahead of her own. She loves nature, particularly plants, and hopes to pursue her graduate degree in botany. The problem is that she is also a caretaker for her 15 year old brother who has a severe developmental delay. She, along with her parents, are struggling to make ends meet as it is and her brother requires round the clock care. After a horrendous incident, Vivian discovers that not only is magic real, she is capable of wielding it. She receives a mysterious letter granting her admission with full scholarship to a graduate school she doesn't remember applying too and that's when I really leaned in. Arcane Academy is a magical university but it also a place steeped in secrets and poor Vivian stumbles upon something very wrong in the woods of campus. Arcane Academy is much more dangerous than it seems, and everyone is keeping secrets, some deadlier than others. This book will hook you from page 1 and you will absolutely devour it. I loved the eldest daughter representation, the found family, the mystery and secrets of it all. There is spice but not a whole lot of it, so when you get to it, it hits extra hard because you get so distracted the mystery and the darkness and secrets that Vivian is trying to unravel. The spice was so well done and had me blushing. This is one of those books that's so good that I almost wish that I didn't read it until the entire series was out because I need to know what happens next immediately. If you love secret magical schools, mysteries, secrets, dark broody professors, not knowing who you can trust, and gothic islands shrouded by magical mist, you will love this. Also, if you loved Nocticadia by Kerri Lake, run don't walk to pick this up!
15 stars, no notes!
Listen, I love a good dark academia books and this was one of the most enjoyable ones I've read in a hot minute. I was absolutely hooked from page 1. Vivian is a tired eldest daughter who has spent her whole life putting everyone else's needs ahead of her own. She loves nature, particularly plants, and hopes to pursue her graduate degree in botany. The problem is that she is also a caretaker for her 15 year old brother who has a severe developmental delay. She, along with her parents, are struggling to make ends meet as it is and her brother requires round the clock care. After a horrendous incident, Vivian discovers that not only is magic real, she is capable of wielding it. She receives a mysterious letter granting her admission with full scholarship to a graduate school she doesn't remember applying too and that's when I really leaned in. Arcane Academy is a magical university but it also a place steeped in secrets and poor Vivian stumbles upon something very wrong in the woods of campus. Arcane Academy is much more dangerous than it seems, and everyone is keeping secrets, some deadlier than others. This book will hook you from page 1 and you will absolutely devour it. I loved the eldest daughter representation, the found family, the mystery and secrets of it all. There is spice but not a whole lot of it, so when you get to it, it hits extra hard because you get so distracted the mystery and the darkness and secrets that Vivian is trying to unravel. The spice was so well done and had me blushing. This is one of those books that's so good that I almost wish that I didn't read it until the entire series was out because I need to know what happens next immediately. If you love secret magical schools, mysteries, secrets, dark broody professors, not knowing who you can trust, and gothic islands shrouded by magical mist, you will love this. Also, if you loved Nocticadia by Kerri Lake, run don't walk to pick this up!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
When she was attacked on a hiking trail in Nevada, Vivian unleashed something she had never seen before, and not only discovered magic, but her ability to wield it. Two days later, she received an invitation to the elusive Arcadia Academy, a hidden school of magic, where she would be not only completing her Master’s studies, but also learn to develop her magical skill.
Arriving on campus is more than a new world for her, feeling behind her peers in having never even heard of magic until recently, but she is determined to make the most of her opportunity, and tutored by a handsome professor doesn’t hurt either. When she realizes that her father, who passed away before she was born, also attended the Academy, it leads to sinister discoveries and uncovering the fact that there are more secrets on campus than just its existence.
I received an early copy of this book from @NetGalley and I was hooked right from the beginning. As traumatic as it was for Vivian, I loved the way her magic manifested initially, and then her realizations that hints of it had been there all along. Campus life is stereotypical in many ways, but adding the magical element to it all just made it even better. Vivian’s connection with Alaric, while tumultuous, has the potential to develop into so much more, but most of all I love the friendships Vivian has found, and the unconditional support she was able to obtain for the first time in her life. The secrecy regarding her father’s past and identity hint that so much more is going on, and I cannot wait to see it all unfold in the second book.
Arriving on campus is more than a new world for her, feeling behind her peers in having never even heard of magic until recently, but she is determined to make the most of her opportunity, and tutored by a handsome professor doesn’t hurt either. When she realizes that her father, who passed away before she was born, also attended the Academy, it leads to sinister discoveries and uncovering the fact that there are more secrets on campus than just its existence.
I received an early copy of this book from @NetGalley and I was hooked right from the beginning. As traumatic as it was for Vivian, I loved the way her magic manifested initially, and then her realizations that hints of it had been there all along. Campus life is stereotypical in many ways, but adding the magical element to it all just made it even better. Vivian’s connection with Alaric, while tumultuous, has the potential to develop into so much more, but most of all I love the friendships Vivian has found, and the unconditional support she was able to obtain for the first time in her life. The secrecy regarding her father’s past and identity hint that so much more is going on, and I cannot wait to see it all unfold in the second book.
July 12, 2026
Arc review ✨
Dark academia?
Fantasy/ magic base?
Slow burn romance?
Yes, yes and yesssss.
This follows Vivian a normal girl who unexpectedly discovers she has magic. She receives an invite to study magic and learn to control her powers at one of the prestigious magic colleges. And this is where she meets Dr Vale, her tutor.
The story begins with Vivian struggling to understand the magic world she has suddenly ended up in, as well as her ability to control her magic.
It covers personal growth, through choosing how to be in touch with her own emotions, learning to put herself first, and developing friendships she’s never had.
There is a really nice magic system set out and described early on in the book. It’s explained well and carry’s well throughout.
In terms of dark academia, it’s a little light for my personal taste. The setting is a magic college, set on a private island surrounded by a woodland. It was just missing the moody, neoclassic style for me.
There is a secret/ mystery plot set throughout, as Vivian discovers her father had attended the college and seeks to learn more about him and there is a character death late into plot. Again, for my personal taste the plot was a little too slow. I feel like the majorly happened in the last 60-100 pages.
The slow burn aspect was slooowwww with some spice 🌶️ I felt like some of their romance happened off page between chapters, so I wasn’t really rooting for them as a couple.
While the slow pacing doesn’t work for me, the plot ticked my boxes enjoy to enjoy!
Dark academia?
Fantasy/ magic base?
Slow burn romance?
Yes, yes and yesssss.
This follows Vivian a normal girl who unexpectedly discovers she has magic. She receives an invite to study magic and learn to control her powers at one of the prestigious magic colleges. And this is where she meets Dr Vale, her tutor.
The story begins with Vivian struggling to understand the magic world she has suddenly ended up in, as well as her ability to control her magic.
It covers personal growth, through choosing how to be in touch with her own emotions, learning to put herself first, and developing friendships she’s never had.
There is a really nice magic system set out and described early on in the book. It’s explained well and carry’s well throughout.
In terms of dark academia, it’s a little light for my personal taste. The setting is a magic college, set on a private island surrounded by a woodland. It was just missing the moody, neoclassic style for me.
There is a secret/ mystery plot set throughout, as Vivian discovers her father had attended the college and seeks to learn more about him and there is a character death late into plot. Again, for my personal taste the plot was a little too slow. I feel like the majorly happened in the last 60-100 pages.
The slow burn aspect was slooowwww with some spice 🌶️ I felt like some of their romance happened off page between chapters, so I wasn’t really rooting for them as a couple.
While the slow pacing doesn’t work for me, the plot ticked my boxes enjoy to enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was good. Although i did find it heavy on inner monologue and narration in parts. The plot was good and kept me reading. The fmc is headstrong and caring but lacks self-confidence in her self worth, this story helps her recognise who she is and what she can be capable of.
At times, it was hard to get a read on the mmc as he was very secretive, and i wasn't sure he would betray her until right at the end.
Early on, it covers how isolating and heavy parentification can be, especially when caring for disabled siblings. The guilt you feel and also the passive aggressiveness from parents when you try to distance yourself more.
I loved how all the friends banded together at the end to stand up for her, and she truly felt like she belonged. It would be interesting how her and Alarics relationship progresses in the future.
It's just personal preference that i dont like heavily narrated/monologued stories, and i felt more interactions and diologues could have made the story have more depth.
“It’s important to remember that your value does not lie in what you can provide for others. I look forward to witnessing your self-discovery this semester.”
-I loved this line.
“What kind of perks?” I ask sweetly. There’s no way in hell I’d get into a club like that, and I don’t plan on trying, but the least I can do is waste her time. She had seemed haughty in class, but her arrogant attitude is even more atrocious than I had previously thought.
-love how she wasted her time just to be petty.
At times, it was hard to get a read on the mmc as he was very secretive, and i wasn't sure he would betray her until right at the end.
Early on, it covers how isolating and heavy parentification can be, especially when caring for disabled siblings. The guilt you feel and also the passive aggressiveness from parents when you try to distance yourself more.
I loved how all the friends banded together at the end to stand up for her, and she truly felt like she belonged. It would be interesting how her and Alarics relationship progresses in the future.
It's just personal preference that i dont like heavily narrated/monologued stories, and i felt more interactions and diologues could have made the story have more depth.
“It’s important to remember that your value does not lie in what you can provide for others. I look forward to witnessing your self-discovery this semester.”
-I loved this line.
“What kind of perks?” I ask sweetly. There’s no way in hell I’d get into a club like that, and I don’t plan on trying, but the least I can do is waste her time. She had seemed haughty in class, but her arrogant attitude is even more atrocious than I had previously thought.
-love how she wasted her time just to be petty.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5⭐️- rounding up because we all need a shadow daddy professor...🤣
" Is this what you want, " he growls, " you want me to tell you that I can't f*****g think when you're around because your very presence consumes me..."
An Arcane Education was such a fun, quick bingeable read. If you liked Darcy and Lance from Zodiac Academy, you'll love Vivian and Alaric.
Out one day for a walk on a trail, Vivian is attacked. As she is dying, magic that she unknowingly suppressed saves her. Two days later, she receives a scholarship to Arcadia Academy.
I enjoyed the magic system and academy setting. They're both well thought out. The academy gave me Hogwart vibes at times. We, the reader, are right there with Vivian as she attends her classes and suffers blundering through learning her magic. Initially....😄
I think the plot was cleverly done as we have a couple of mysteries going on that are layered - the mystery of Vivian 's dad, a current murder , and a prophecy. And the best thing, it's not a cliffhanger ending!! A wrap-up with just a wiggle room for the next book.
I eagerly await book 2!
Thank you for choosing me to be an ARC Reader.
" Is this what you want, " he growls, " you want me to tell you that I can't f*****g think when you're around because your very presence consumes me..."
An Arcane Education was such a fun, quick bingeable read. If you liked Darcy and Lance from Zodiac Academy, you'll love Vivian and Alaric.
Out one day for a walk on a trail, Vivian is attacked. As she is dying, magic that she unknowingly suppressed saves her. Two days later, she receives a scholarship to Arcadia Academy.
I enjoyed the magic system and academy setting. They're both well thought out. The academy gave me Hogwart vibes at times. We, the reader, are right there with Vivian as she attends her classes and suffers blundering through learning her magic. Initially....😄
I think the plot was cleverly done as we have a couple of mysteries going on that are layered - the mystery of Vivian 's dad, a current murder , and a prophecy. And the best thing, it's not a cliffhanger ending!! A wrap-up with just a wiggle room for the next book.
I eagerly await book 2!
Thank you for choosing me to be an ARC Reader.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to the author for the advance copy of this book.
This book definitely had some fantastic elements. Even though I’m an only child, Vivian’s role as a caregiver, first and foremost in her life, resonated deeply with me. “The logical part of me knows that I’m not a villain for putting myself first for once, even when it might feel like it.” SPOT. ON. Also, I thought the intersection of science and magic was very cool and I actually wanted more of it.
My biggest issue with this book, however, was pacing and character development. It felt like the first third of the book was exposition and not action. Then there were time jumps which felt frustrating (for example, the majority of the development of feelings between Vivian and Alaric happened in the weeks that were jumped over), so I didn’t feel like I saw any real development in their chemistry with one another. Then there were characters who didn’t get enough “screen time” (for me, AJ and Delilah) and some that were introduced and never seen again.
I think this book has a TON of potential, and wish the author all the luck with it, but to me it would benefit from some additional editing.
This book definitely had some fantastic elements. Even though I’m an only child, Vivian’s role as a caregiver, first and foremost in her life, resonated deeply with me. “The logical part of me knows that I’m not a villain for putting myself first for once, even when it might feel like it.” SPOT. ON. Also, I thought the intersection of science and magic was very cool and I actually wanted more of it.
My biggest issue with this book, however, was pacing and character development. It felt like the first third of the book was exposition and not action. Then there were time jumps which felt frustrating (for example, the majority of the development of feelings between Vivian and Alaric happened in the weeks that were jumped over), so I didn’t feel like I saw any real development in their chemistry with one another. Then there were characters who didn’t get enough “screen time” (for me, AJ and Delilah) and some that were introduced and never seen again.
I think this book has a TON of potential, and wish the author all the luck with it, but to me it would benefit from some additional editing.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
An Arcane Education had everything I love in a dark academia fantasy—magic, mystery, secret societies, and just the right amount of forbidden romance.
While there is a professor/student relationship, I really appreciated that it wasn't the sole focus of the story. Instead, the mystery surrounding the academy took centre stage, and I was completely hooked trying to piece together what was lurking beneath the surface alongside Vivian, Alaric, and the rest of the gang.
The atmosphere was one of my favourite parts of the book. It perfectly captured that eerie, gothic dark academia vibe, with magic woven throughout and a constant sense that something sinister was brewing. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out what was really happening.
This book gave me serious Gothikana and Nocticadia vibes, which is a huge compliment because I absolutely loved both of those books. If you're a fan of dark academia with mystery, magic, gothic settings, and a slow-burning forbidden romance, then I definitely recommend adding An Arcane Education to your TBR.
✨ A must-read for lovers of magical academia and gothic mysteries!
While there is a professor/student relationship, I really appreciated that it wasn't the sole focus of the story. Instead, the mystery surrounding the academy took centre stage, and I was completely hooked trying to piece together what was lurking beneath the surface alongside Vivian, Alaric, and the rest of the gang.
The atmosphere was one of my favourite parts of the book. It perfectly captured that eerie, gothic dark academia vibe, with magic woven throughout and a constant sense that something sinister was brewing. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough to find out what was really happening.
This book gave me serious Gothikana and Nocticadia vibes, which is a huge compliment because I absolutely loved both of those books. If you're a fan of dark academia with mystery, magic, gothic settings, and a slow-burning forbidden romance, then I definitely recommend adding An Arcane Education to your TBR.
✨ A must-read for lovers of magical academia and gothic mysteries!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
An Arcane Education is a dark academia/fantasy novel written by Lyla Andrews that follows a 24-year-old grad student who discovers her plant-based magical abilities and is thrust into an elite, fog-shrouded island school in the Pacific Northwest. What I loved most was the world-building and how thorough Lyla was in creating it, from the initial worldbuilding to the actual pages. I could genuinely see myself as part of the story, like I was physically there, and it was incredible. I also really hope we see more of Max in the next book, as I found myself relating to her the most out of all the characters we met. My only issue with this story is Vivian and Alaric. To me, their relationship was rushed; it felt mildly forced, and I found that Vivian had more chemistry with AJ, despite them only being friends. I wonder if it's because of the instant sexual attraction, as I usually like the build-up to that in books. However, if you do enjoy a good student-professor relationship and the found family trope, then I would highly recommend this book!
An Arcane Education is a dark academia/fantasy novel written by Lyla Andrews that follows a 24-year-old grad student who discovers her plant-based magical abilities and is thrust into an elite, fog-shrouded island school in the Pacific Northwest. What I loved most was the world-building and how thorough Lyla was in creating it, from the initial worldbuilding to the actual pages. I could genuinely see myself as part of the story, like I was physically there, and it was incredible. I also really hope we see more of Max in the next book, as I found myself relating to her the most out of all the characters we met. My only issue with this story is Vivian and Alaric. To me, their relationship was rushed; it felt mildly forced, and I found that Vivian had more chemistry with AJ, despite them only being friends. I wonder if it's because of the instant sexual attraction, as I usually like the build-up to that in books. However, if you do enjoy a good student-professor relationship and the found family trope, then I would highly recommend this book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’ve really been into dark academia lately and when I saw that this was a magical university, with a forbidden professor/student romance, I knew I had to give this one a try.
The first chapter had me hooked with how our FMC found out she had magic. Vivian had such amazing growth throughout the book. She went from putting herself on the back burner to take care of everyone else to doing something completely for herself ( which as a mom is completely relatable). She was thrown into this brand new world and even though it was an uphill battle, she thrived!
I loved the setting of the story and found it easy to visual it as I was reading.
The female friendships in the story was so well done and they made for some fun moments throughout the story.
The romance- like I said, I love a forbidden. Our professor has lots of secrets but he really falls for Vivian. The spicy moments we got from them were 🔥 but just left me wanting more!
My favorite aspect had to be the mysteries our characters are trying to solve. While we did get some answers there is a lot still unknown! If you know me then you know I have my theories.
The first chapter had me hooked with how our FMC found out she had magic. Vivian had such amazing growth throughout the book. She went from putting herself on the back burner to take care of everyone else to doing something completely for herself ( which as a mom is completely relatable). She was thrown into this brand new world and even though it was an uphill battle, she thrived!
I loved the setting of the story and found it easy to visual it as I was reading.
The female friendships in the story was so well done and they made for some fun moments throughout the story.
The romance- like I said, I love a forbidden. Our professor has lots of secrets but he really falls for Vivian. The spicy moments we got from them were 🔥 but just left me wanting more!
My favorite aspect had to be the mysteries our characters are trying to solve. While we did get some answers there is a lot still unknown! If you know me then you know I have my theories.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Vivian's life changes in an instant when, during a hike, she discovers she possesses magic. Suddenly she's accepted into a magical academy, where she's forced to learn how to control her abilities while being far behind the rest of the students. Watching her navigate a world she knows nothing about was one of my favorite parts of the story. Her headstrong determination and refusal to give up, no matter how overwhelming the odds, made her easy to root for.
Determined not to fail, Vivian turns to Professor Alaric for help. The chemistry the angst Alaric's unwavering devotion had me completely invested. He was protective without taking away Vivian's independence, supportive through every challenge, and definitely swoon-worthy.
I also loved seeing Vivian find her people. A group of girls. Their friendship was built on loyalty and acceptance.
And that ending... what a setup for book two. There are still so many unanswered questions, bigger mysteries waiting to unfold, and I can't wait to return to this world to see what happens next.
Determined not to fail, Vivian turns to Professor Alaric for help. The chemistry the angst Alaric's unwavering devotion had me completely invested. He was protective without taking away Vivian's independence, supportive through every challenge, and definitely swoon-worthy.
I also loved seeing Vivian find her people. A group of girls. Their friendship was built on loyalty and acceptance.
And that ending... what a setup for book two. There are still so many unanswered questions, bigger mysteries waiting to unfold, and I can't wait to return to this world to see what happens next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
First and foremost a huge THANK YOU to Ms. Lyla Andrews for sending me an ARC for An Arcane Education!!
Wowwwwww what a ride! The very first chapter had me on the edge of my seat in suspense. That’s when I knew I was about to have a wild time.
The world building was fantastic. I truly felt like I could picture every single moment in perfect detail.
I absolutely love how relatable Vivian is. Just a girl working her butt off to help her family and focusing on taking care of everyone else but herself. I’m working on the same thing in therapy!
Alaric is drool worthy! WHEN HE TAKES HIS SEXY LITTLE GLASSES OFF before *feasting* 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
When he slams the door shut when Vivian tries to leave
LLLLAAAAWWWWDDDD that man 🥵🥵
The unexpected twists and turns this story took was so refreshing and I am SO EXCITED to continue this story in future books!
My ONLY “complaint” would be that Alaric and Vivian’s relationship built mostly “off screen”. I would’ve enjoyed more of their relationship development but still overall really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait for book 2!
Wowwwwww what a ride! The very first chapter had me on the edge of my seat in suspense. That’s when I knew I was about to have a wild time.
The world building was fantastic. I truly felt like I could picture every single moment in perfect detail.
I absolutely love how relatable Vivian is. Just a girl working her butt off to help her family and focusing on taking care of everyone else but herself. I’m working on the same thing in therapy!
Alaric is drool worthy! WHEN HE TAKES HIS SEXY LITTLE GLASSES OFF before *feasting* 😮💨😮💨😮💨😮💨
When he slams the door shut when Vivian tries to leave
LLLLAAAAWWWWDDDD that man 🥵🥵
The unexpected twists and turns this story took was so refreshing and I am SO EXCITED to continue this story in future books!
My ONLY “complaint” would be that Alaric and Vivian’s relationship built mostly “off screen”. I would’ve enjoyed more of their relationship development but still overall really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
If Nocticadia is your gold standard for dark academia, put this one on your TBR.
I absolutely devoured An Arcane Education. Vivian doesn’t discover she has magic until her twenties, and watching her get thrown into Arcadia Academy as a complete outsider made this impossible to put down.
This has everything I wanted: a forbidden professor/student slow burn, a murder mystery, hidden family secrets, a prophecy, and one of my favorite found families. Seeing Vivian finally surrounded by friends who put her first was just as satisfying as the romance.
The magic system was intriguing, the gothic atmosphere was immersive, and the mysteries kept me turning pages. While the romance is definitely there, I’d go in expecting dark academia with a romance subplot, not a full romantasy.
The ending wraps up enough to feel satisfying, but there’s still a larger mystery unfolding with plenty of unanswered questions. I already need book two because I have a feeling this series is only going to get better.
Thank you to the author for letting me read this early!
I absolutely devoured An Arcane Education. Vivian doesn’t discover she has magic until her twenties, and watching her get thrown into Arcadia Academy as a complete outsider made this impossible to put down.
This has everything I wanted: a forbidden professor/student slow burn, a murder mystery, hidden family secrets, a prophecy, and one of my favorite found families. Seeing Vivian finally surrounded by friends who put her first was just as satisfying as the romance.
The magic system was intriguing, the gothic atmosphere was immersive, and the mysteries kept me turning pages. While the romance is definitely there, I’d go in expecting dark academia with a romance subplot, not a full romantasy.
The ending wraps up enough to feel satisfying, but there’s still a larger mystery unfolding with plenty of unanswered questions. I already need book two because I have a feeling this series is only going to get better.
Thank you to the author for letting me read this early!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I could not put this book down. The short, addictive chapters had me constantly whispering “just one more” until it was well past midnight.
The storyline is fantastic. Following the FMC as she dives into the world of magic for the first time is pure joy—her frustrations feel so real, but her triumphs hit even harder. You can’t help but root for her, ache with her, and cheer for every win.
And the MMC? Lord help me. Instant “professor daddy” vibes. I want to be Vivian so badly, curled up in that greenhouse with the hot half-fae naturalist professor—glasses, tousled hair, rain pattering against the glass. Absolute perfection.
I also adored the friendships she builds during her first semester, especially with Max. She absolutely deserves her own squad of ride-or-die friends like Viv and the girls. The magic system is genuinely cool, and I loved the detailed classifications and affinities.
Honestly, I wish this book had been longer because there’s clearly so much more story waiting to unfold. I’m already counting down the days until book two!
The storyline is fantastic. Following the FMC as she dives into the world of magic for the first time is pure joy—her frustrations feel so real, but her triumphs hit even harder. You can’t help but root for her, ache with her, and cheer for every win.
And the MMC? Lord help me. Instant “professor daddy” vibes. I want to be Vivian so badly, curled up in that greenhouse with the hot half-fae naturalist professor—glasses, tousled hair, rain pattering against the glass. Absolute perfection.
I also adored the friendships she builds during her first semester, especially with Max. She absolutely deserves her own squad of ride-or-die friends like Viv and the girls. The magic system is genuinely cool, and I loved the detailed classifications and affinities.
Honestly, I wish this book had been longer because there’s clearly so much more story waiting to unfold. I’m already counting down the days until book two!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.25⭐️ When Vivian Harver joins Arcadia Academy, she’s thrust into a rainy world full of lies, secrets, and forbidden romance. A grad student with nature magic, she wants to succeed and make something of herself. But this is no typical university experience. She struggles with a moody Vampire roommate, out of control magic, and gets framed for murder by a vengeful classmate. Through her connections with found family and her own investigation, she has to fight to exonerate herself and discovers hidden family secrets that make her question everything she’s ever known about herself.
If you enjoyed Zodiac Academy and Nocticadia, you’ll enjoy this dark academia romantasy. I personally need book two to be a slowburn. I love these characters, and am hoping to go much deeper into their history and lore ie. Max and her family. I also have a lot of questions on the big coverup in the school, and the extent of Viv’s powers. I’m excited for more Arcadia Academy.
Thanks to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC! 💜
If you enjoyed Zodiac Academy and Nocticadia, you’ll enjoy this dark academia romantasy. I personally need book two to be a slowburn. I love these characters, and am hoping to go much deeper into their history and lore ie. Max and her family. I also have a lot of questions on the big coverup in the school, and the extent of Viv’s powers. I’m excited for more Arcadia Academy.
Thanks to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC! 💜
Review of advance copy received from Author
Vivian is a human girl, or so she always thought. Then one incident reveals magic to her and she's thrust into a world and school she never knew about. She's not sure how she has magic as her mom is very human. While at school she makes friends with all sort of different types of magical beings and even meets a handsome professor. There is darkness here though and she's somehow connected.
I really enjoyed Vivian's story, she's learning who she is without having family obligations which I think a lot of people can relate to. She's learning her own strength as well as the joy of making friends. Finding a community she feels herself in and the acceptance she's always craved makes a great arc for the character. I definitely want to read the second book and see where the story goes. There were a few lulls in the story but other than that it's a great story and a very enjoyable read.
I really enjoyed Vivian's story, she's learning who she is without having family obligations which I think a lot of people can relate to. She's learning her own strength as well as the joy of making friends. Finding a community she feels herself in and the acceptance she's always craved makes a great arc for the character. I definitely want to read the second book and see where the story goes. There were a few lulls in the story but other than that it's a great story and a very enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I always try to give honest reviews, and this one definitely took me on a journey.
I’ll admit, the beginning had me wondering if this book was going to be for me. After the first chapter the pacing is slower as the world, characters, and magic system are established.
Once everything started coming together, though, I was completely invested. The mystery deepened, the suspense kept building, and by the final chapters I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. That ending left me desperate for more, and I already know I’ll be continuing this series.
If you enjoy paranormal romance with an age-gap romance, magical academia, plenty of mystery and suspense, and a touch of magic woven throughout, I think this book is worth picking up. It’s a slower start, but the payoff at the end made it worthwhile for me.
I’m looking forward to seeing where the story goes next and can’t wait to return to Arcadia Academy.
I’ll admit, the beginning had me wondering if this book was going to be for me. After the first chapter the pacing is slower as the world, characters, and magic system are established.
Once everything started coming together, though, I was completely invested. The mystery deepened, the suspense kept building, and by the final chapters I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. That ending left me desperate for more, and I already know I’ll be continuing this series.
If you enjoy paranormal romance with an age-gap romance, magical academia, plenty of mystery and suspense, and a touch of magic woven throughout, I think this book is worth picking up. It’s a slower start, but the payoff at the end made it worthwhile for me.
I’m looking forward to seeing where the story goes next and can’t wait to return to Arcadia Academy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Good academy fantasy!
Botanical magic, suspicious mushrooms, new friends, mystery and romance. I liked that the lessons were extensive part of the book and I liked Vivian's our FMC friends who also offer the possibility of expanding the magical world in the future.
The mystery of Vivian's father and the mystery of the disappearances that occurred in the history of the academy were also entertaining. I will set the reading experience to 3,5⭐️ rounded up.
The book progressed well, but I think it could have been longer. I was not completely convinced by the romance and I would have liked darker tones, especially in the forbidden forest. I recommend the book to academy fantasy fans and I will wait for the sequel with interest.
Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read the advanced reader copy!
Botanical magic, suspicious mushrooms, new friends, mystery and romance. I liked that the lessons were extensive part of the book and I liked Vivian's our FMC friends who also offer the possibility of expanding the magical world in the future.
The mystery of Vivian's father and the mystery of the disappearances that occurred in the history of the academy were also entertaining. I will set the reading experience to 3,5⭐️ rounded up.
The book progressed well, but I think it could have been longer. I was not completely convinced by the romance and I would have liked darker tones, especially in the forbidden forest. I recommend the book to academy fantasy fans and I will wait for the sequel with interest.
Thank you Victory Editing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read the advanced reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review✨️
Oh my, what a whirlwind. The FMC starts off as someone who puts her family above all else (including herself), finally pushes out of that comfort zone and reorganizes her priorities then becomes someone so cautiously confident under your nose until you have no idea where it came from.
The MMC, interesting fella. Through the book, he remains a mysterious guy who has so many mixed signals that it was hard to like him (for me anyway).
The found friendship was something I've related to on so many levels that near the end; my heart was so full. The 5 girls are so different, but so special.
The story itself has the climax of the book sneak up on you. It was definitely a series starter book, but was executed beautifully.
Please consider checking out this incredible book, reviewing, and yearning for future books in this series!🫶🏻
Oh my, what a whirlwind. The FMC starts off as someone who puts her family above all else (including herself), finally pushes out of that comfort zone and reorganizes her priorities then becomes someone so cautiously confident under your nose until you have no idea where it came from.
The MMC, interesting fella. Through the book, he remains a mysterious guy who has so many mixed signals that it was hard to like him (for me anyway).
The found friendship was something I've related to on so many levels that near the end; my heart was so full. The 5 girls are so different, but so special.
The story itself has the climax of the book sneak up on you. It was definitely a series starter book, but was executed beautifully.
Please consider checking out this incredible book, reviewing, and yearning for future books in this series!🫶🏻
July 12, 2026
Wow this book was riveting! It was like a more adult version of Hogwarts but with some spice lol! Honestly I felt so much love for the FMC and I thought she was perfectly written. The group of girls was so much fun and a beautiful found family trope. The world building was incredible and I wish I could visit a place like Arcadia Academy with its gothic and ethereal atmosphere! The magic system was so unique and I was so engrossed in the 7 different types…I wish I could be naturalist, but I would probably be a mentalist as an empath lol. Professor Alaric was so intelligent and described like my dream man…smart, mysterious, sexy and dry humor?! 🤩 **swoon** I am so happy I was chosen to be an arc reader for this novel and I cannot wait for the next in the series! So many more mysteries to find out and magic to be explored!!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was hooked from the start. Vivian gets attacked, finds out magic is real, and two days later has an invite to a grad program she never even applied to. No slow build, just straight in to it.
I liked that she's actually bad at magic at first. Behind everyone, struggling, kind of a mess was way more fun to read than someone who's secretly a prodigy.
And Professor Vale, he’s strict, gorgeous, clearly hiding something, and absolutely should not be alone with her as much as he is.
On top of all that there's the question of her dad, gone before she was born, plus strange things happening in the woods that tie back to Vale's research, plus a murder that somehow gets pinned on her. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next in book 2 and learning more about Max as it will be her book’s POV.
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for this ARC.
I liked that she's actually bad at magic at first. Behind everyone, struggling, kind of a mess was way more fun to read than someone who's secretly a prodigy.
And Professor Vale, he’s strict, gorgeous, clearly hiding something, and absolutely should not be alone with her as much as he is.
On top of all that there's the question of her dad, gone before she was born, plus strange things happening in the woods that tie back to Vale's research, plus a murder that somehow gets pinned on her. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next in book 2 and learning more about Max as it will be her book’s POV.
Thank you NetGalley and Victory Editing for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I didn't realize how tired I was of the brooding, ultra-hardened dark academia heroine until I met Vivian. She is incredibly refreshing, and her background. Sacrificing her own desires to build a life revolving around someone else felt deeply relatable and grounded. But my favorite thing about her? She completely bypasses the standard, exhausting miscommunication tropes. Instead of letting internal drama fester for chapters, Vivian actually speaks her mind in real-time. Alaric hasn't entirely won me over just yet (here’s hoping for some serious character development in book two), but the plot hooks absolutely have me in their grip. I need immediate answers about Vivian's father, Max's family lineage, and whatever sinister agenda the Chancellor is running.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this ARC and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5/5
Okay… so we have another FMC who thinks she’s living a perfectly normal life until she accidentally does magic on the guy stalking her. Although the vibes of the book was not exactly something new about midway through the academy starts showing its true colors. Vivian is learning that she has magic and she’s new to the world that she’s being thrown into and discovering the secrets about her past in the academy kept me reading this book. The handsome teacher helped also. 😉 when things start happening she finds she is in the middle somehow. And the end has left more questions that I want answers to!
Nothing says “welcome to school” quite like murder, secrets, and a professor you definitely shouldn’t have a crush on.
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ 3.5/5
Okay… so we have another FMC who thinks she’s living a perfectly normal life until she accidentally does magic on the guy stalking her. Although the vibes of the book was not exactly something new about midway through the academy starts showing its true colors. Vivian is learning that she has magic and she’s new to the world that she’s being thrown into and discovering the secrets about her past in the academy kept me reading this book. The handsome teacher helped also. 😉 when things start happening she finds she is in the middle somehow. And the end has left more questions that I want answers to!
Nothing says “welcome to school” quite like murder, secrets, and a professor you definitely shouldn’t have a crush on.
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