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The Gold Keepers #1
The Gold Keepers
Scotland, 1953. Eileen Binchy is pulled from her work as an archivist in Edinburgh and sent to fill a vacant teaching post at her old school of magic. She arrives at Dunroven Academy prepared to endure her professional exile, only to find it further complicated by Calum Markaine, her former classmate, who is assigned to teach alongside her despite the lingering stain of past crimes.
When Eileen suspects that Calum’s return conceals a purpose darker than scandal, she follows him across centuries on a hunt for lost, powerful relics. But the closer she comes to understanding what he wants, the less certain she is whether Calum is the threat at the heart of it all or the one person she can trust.
The Gold Keepers is a grown-up magic school fantasy steeped in tension and mystery, with time travel, elemental magic, and slow-burn romantic suspense.
When Eileen suspects that Calum’s return conceals a purpose darker than scandal, she follows him across centuries on a hunt for lost, powerful relics. But the closer she comes to understanding what he wants, the less certain she is whether Calum is the threat at the heart of it all or the one person she can trust.
The Gold Keepers is a grown-up magic school fantasy steeped in tension and mystery, with time travel, elemental magic, and slow-burn romantic suspense.
436 pages, Paperback
Published September 16, 2026
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August 14, 2026
The Gold Keepers is a fantastic dark historical fantasy novel set in Scotland in the 1950’s. There is amazing magical politics set in a post WW2 world.
Eileen Binchy is sent from her archivist job for the Council to teach at her former school. The only problem…she’s paired to co-teach with Calum Markaine, a Bleeder. He is disgraced because he took part in the Bleeder movement which harmed and killed many Weavers (magic users) and Flatlanders (regular, non magic people). Since Eileen works for the Council (the governing body for Weavers) her presence is supposed to smooth over the controversy of Calum teaching.
But not all is as it seems. Eileen gets pulled into Calum’s actual reason for being at Dunroven Academy. He’s searching for relics related to the Gold King, the legendary and mythical Weaver king who thought Weavers were the superior race. Eileen follows Calum across the past to search for these relics.
But can she truly trust Calum and his motives for finding these relics? The more she’s sucked in, the less she’s sure of anything.
This story pulled me in from the very first page. It’s a slow burn, dark historical fantasy novel. It felt like a much more adult and dark version of Harry Potter in some ways—and also better.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Eileen Binchy is sent from her archivist job for the Council to teach at her former school. The only problem…she’s paired to co-teach with Calum Markaine, a Bleeder. He is disgraced because he took part in the Bleeder movement which harmed and killed many Weavers (magic users) and Flatlanders (regular, non magic people). Since Eileen works for the Council (the governing body for Weavers) her presence is supposed to smooth over the controversy of Calum teaching.
But not all is as it seems. Eileen gets pulled into Calum’s actual reason for being at Dunroven Academy. He’s searching for relics related to the Gold King, the legendary and mythical Weaver king who thought Weavers were the superior race. Eileen follows Calum across the past to search for these relics.
But can she truly trust Calum and his motives for finding these relics? The more she’s sucked in, the less she’s sure of anything.
This story pulled me in from the very first page. It’s a slow burn, dark historical fantasy novel. It felt like a much more adult and dark version of Harry Potter in some ways—and also better.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 2, 2026
*4.25 stars* Huge thank you to author for this ARC! I really enjoyed this story, the plot, the complexity of the characters, the setting, everything! It fell short for me in that I wish the time travel mechanism was explained. Like it was interesting to see how the build up to it happening affects the characters, but it wasn’t ever really explained and that would’ve been nice to understand as the reader. And the blurb at the end of this provided a description of what book two will be which is exactly what I was wanting more of in this book! So you better believe I will be reading the next book as well. Overall I really enjoyed this read and it was incredibly impressive for a debut novel!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The first 20% of the read was difficult for me... The world and characters just felt too familiar to another magical franchise while also not giving enough to help me care about them in this world. Additionally, I found some of the timeline a bit confusing and we seem to jump forward in time or change locations without transitioning or inserting a break to indicate a transition. The book feels both slow paced and rushed in the sense that we find a lot of details about mundane things but the main quest events, particularly the final conflict, happen too quickly.
There's also a bit of inner monologue that feels overly analytical and clunky,
By around 60% of the way through the book, I was rooting for these characters and their quest again. I was interested by their mission and rooting for their friendship and eventual relationship. The slow-burn was a bit too much of a slow-burn for me
Overall, I did enjoy the world that was created and the quest that unraveled. I didn't always feel that things were fully explained or made sense (such as Eileen even being drawn into the quest in the first place or why the quest had to happen now-this is explained briefly at the end but didn't feel particularly satisfying). I came around to liking the characters and rooting for them to work things out. The book feels like it could have done with a bit more editing but I enjoyed the journey and may pick up the next book ("The Gold Prince") because I think Calum's perspective would be interesting and I would like to know more about the world and how we arrived at this quest.
There's also a bit of inner monologue that feels overly analytical and clunky,
By around 60% of the way through the book, I was rooting for these characters and their quest again. I was interested by their mission and rooting for their friendship and eventual relationship. The slow-burn was a bit too much of a slow-burn for me
Overall, I did enjoy the world that was created and the quest that unraveled. I didn't always feel that things were fully explained or made sense (such as Eileen even being drawn into the quest in the first place or why the quest had to happen now-this is explained briefly at the end but didn't feel particularly satisfying). I came around to liking the characters and rooting for them to work things out. The book feels like it could have done with a bit more editing but I enjoyed the journey and may pick up the next book ("The Gold Prince") because I think Calum's perspective would be interesting and I would like to know more about the world and how we arrived at this quest.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Eileen Binchy works as an archivist for the Council of the Weavers, the magical population of Britain and Ireland, and is less than thrilled when she is assigned to spend a year teaching at the magical academy of Dunroven. Her teaching partner is none other than Calum Markaine, who played a sinister role in the subversive Bleeder movement ten years earlier. Eileen has no intention of trusting him, but when she discovers what he is really trying to accomplish, she agrees to join him in an undertaking that could prove deadly.
This book captivated me from the very beginning with its dark atmosphere and its intense protagonist. Although I was able to immerse myself in the story and found it gripping right to the end, I came away with mixed feelings.
I particularly enjoyed the magical world, the fragile coexistence between the magical and non-magical populations, the perspective of the teachers at a magical academy, and the dramatic escalation of the plot towards the end. Through the intense and highly emotional perspective of its female protagonist, the author creates a very dense, dark atmosphere.
I also liked the way the story is told, leaving many things unexplained and allowing connections to emerge only gradually. On the other hand, there were things I would have liked to understand better or have explained in more detail, and some questions remained puzzling to me until the very end or were never resolved in a completely satisfying way.
What I struggled with most were Eileen's negative emotions. She is consumed by anger, hatred, and shame. She is completely hostile towards Calum, even though he is accommodating and cooperative with her. At other times, however, she oscillates between closeness and rejection. I couldn't always understand this contradictory behaviour – or perhaps I understood it to some extent but simply wished that Eileen would change her attitude as the story progressed. I thought the backstory involving Eileen's affair was well done, but it, too, never really reached a satisfying conclusion for me.
Overall, the story struck me as somewhat like Harry Potter for adults – but without the humour and without the cute magical creatures. Even though there are, in fact, quite a few parallels, I felt that the author succeeded in creating a magical world of her own.
I read the novel with great excitement and am definitely curious to discover more of the author's work. I do wish, however, that the backstory of Calum and Eileen – which I would have liked to know more about while reading this book – had been included here rather than saved for the second instalment.
In a nutshell: A dark, atmospheric fantasy novel with a fascinating magical world and an emotionally intense protagonist. Not everything worked for me, but the story kept me hooked until the end and has certainly made me curious about the sequel.
This book captivated me from the very beginning with its dark atmosphere and its intense protagonist. Although I was able to immerse myself in the story and found it gripping right to the end, I came away with mixed feelings.
I particularly enjoyed the magical world, the fragile coexistence between the magical and non-magical populations, the perspective of the teachers at a magical academy, and the dramatic escalation of the plot towards the end. Through the intense and highly emotional perspective of its female protagonist, the author creates a very dense, dark atmosphere.
I also liked the way the story is told, leaving many things unexplained and allowing connections to emerge only gradually. On the other hand, there were things I would have liked to understand better or have explained in more detail, and some questions remained puzzling to me until the very end or were never resolved in a completely satisfying way.
What I struggled with most were Eileen's negative emotions. She is consumed by anger, hatred, and shame. She is completely hostile towards Calum, even though he is accommodating and cooperative with her. At other times, however, she oscillates between closeness and rejection. I couldn't always understand this contradictory behaviour – or perhaps I understood it to some extent but simply wished that Eileen would change her attitude as the story progressed. I thought the backstory involving Eileen's affair was well done, but it, too, never really reached a satisfying conclusion for me.
Overall, the story struck me as somewhat like Harry Potter for adults – but without the humour and without the cute magical creatures. Even though there are, in fact, quite a few parallels, I felt that the author succeeded in creating a magical world of her own.
I read the novel with great excitement and am definitely curious to discover more of the author's work. I do wish, however, that the backstory of Calum and Eileen – which I would have liked to know more about while reading this book – had been included here rather than saved for the second instalment.
In a nutshell: A dark, atmospheric fantasy novel with a fascinating magical world and an emotionally intense protagonist. Not everything worked for me, but the story kept me hooked until the end and has certainly made me curious about the sequel.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was drawn in by the blurb and the promise of an adult slow burn romance set in a magical school. Unfortunately what I got instead was utter confusion. I was confused by the world building - the magical population are called Weavers because they “weave” magic? They wear rings to channel their magic but can also channel without them? They have an element they are affiliated with but can also wield all the other elements? The rules and limitations were never properly explained. I was confused by the characters - the students were supposed to be in their early 20s but all of them acted a lot younger. The characterisation of Eileen was inconsistent - she’s an archivist and supposedly cares about history but did not show an ounce of curiosity about the history of the Gold King or the places and times they were traveling to. The history between Eileen and Calum was also unclear - they seemingly were at the school together but none of this familiarity is displayed. The chemistry between them was also non-existent. I was most confused by the plot - why were Eileen and Calum doing any of what they were doing? The reasoning and urgency of finding the relics did not come across (spoilers ahead: )
I really wanted to like this and read to the end in the hope that there would be answers that would be revealed that would explain anything (I would have taken even just one answer) but I was just left with even more confusion. I know this is the first book in a planned trilogy so perhaps the plan was to reveal some of these in the next two books but this was such an unsatisfying read that I will not be reading the other books.
I really wanted to like this and read to the end in the hope that there would be answers that would be revealed that would explain anything (I would have taken even just one answer) but I was just left with even more confusion. I know this is the first book in a planned trilogy so perhaps the plan was to reveal some of these in the next two books but this was such an unsatisfying read that I will not be reading the other books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ — 4.5 stars
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of The Gold Keepers. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I genuinely loved this book! One of my favorite things about The Gold Keepers was the atmosphere. The author created a world and setting that completely captivated me, and I loved the story's overall feeling. There was something so immersive about it, and it was one of those books that I really enjoyed getting lost in.
Eileen was a great main character—flawed, real, and wonderfully human. She made frustrating decisions at times, but that made her more believable. As for Calum, I liked him from the start but sensed there was more to him than we were told. I often wondered what he was hiding and whether I could trust him.
I enjoyed the slow-burn romantic tension in the story, which kept me engaged. However, toward the end, I felt that part of the narrative was rushed compared to the buildup, leaving me wanting more resolution. I hope book two explores this further!
There were a few moments throughout the book where I found myself getting a little lost in the story. At times, I had trouble following exactly what was happening or how certain pieces connected, and I found myself having to stop and think back on what I had read. It didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the book overall, but I do wish some parts had been a little clearer and easier to follow. This was ultimately what kept it from being a full five-star read for me.
And that ending! Without giving anything away, there was a moment when I thought, “Oh, I’m going to be furious!” 😂 I was convinced the story was going in a direction I didn’t want, but thankfully I was cleverly misled. I think it’s best to experience the ending with as little knowledge as possible!
Despite the few things I struggled with, I really loved my time with The Gold Keepers. And I think the best indication of how much I enjoyed it is pretty simple: I was given an ARC, finished it, and then went and preordered a finished copy anyway.
I want this book on my shelf. I want to return to this world. And I absolutely cannot wait to see what happens in book two.
4.5/5 ⭐️✨
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of The Gold Keepers. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I genuinely loved this book! One of my favorite things about The Gold Keepers was the atmosphere. The author created a world and setting that completely captivated me, and I loved the story's overall feeling. There was something so immersive about it, and it was one of those books that I really enjoyed getting lost in.
Eileen was a great main character—flawed, real, and wonderfully human. She made frustrating decisions at times, but that made her more believable. As for Calum, I liked him from the start but sensed there was more to him than we were told. I often wondered what he was hiding and whether I could trust him.
I enjoyed the slow-burn romantic tension in the story, which kept me engaged. However, toward the end, I felt that part of the narrative was rushed compared to the buildup, leaving me wanting more resolution. I hope book two explores this further!
There were a few moments throughout the book where I found myself getting a little lost in the story. At times, I had trouble following exactly what was happening or how certain pieces connected, and I found myself having to stop and think back on what I had read. It didn’t take away from how much I enjoyed the book overall, but I do wish some parts had been a little clearer and easier to follow. This was ultimately what kept it from being a full five-star read for me.
And that ending! Without giving anything away, there was a moment when I thought, “Oh, I’m going to be furious!” 😂 I was convinced the story was going in a direction I didn’t want, but thankfully I was cleverly misled. I think it’s best to experience the ending with as little knowledge as possible!
Despite the few things I struggled with, I really loved my time with The Gold Keepers. And I think the best indication of how much I enjoyed it is pretty simple: I was given an ARC, finished it, and then went and preordered a finished copy anyway.
I want this book on my shelf. I want to return to this world. And I absolutely cannot wait to see what happens in book two.
4.5/5 ⭐️✨
August 8, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Elizabeth Falkenberg for the opportunity to read this book as an eARC!
I was hooked weeks before I even got the book from NetGalley. I discovered the author's account promoting her new book series on TikTok and was instantly intrigued.
Historical fiction? Check.
A new magic system? Check.
Dark Academia vibes? Check.
Scottish accents? Check
The main characters are professors, not students? Check.
Some I've heard about the book is that it's too similar to other magical worlds. While I could certainly imagine what worlds those readers are hinting at, I think that there will naturally be some similarities because the nature of the book is historical fiction (and Scotland). That being said, it almost felt nostalgic. I was pleased with the setting because it felt quaint and exciting, and it was viewed through the eyes of adults, not children. Like visiting a beautiful college campus, it was romantic, in a sense. Also, I will say that the magic system and plot of the book felt original to me. I was hooked to read the last 25% - I couldn't put the book down, and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it.
Honestly, I had the best time reading this book, and I'm so excited that the author is going at her own pace in releasing the books of her series. The Gold Keepers releases in September and (thankfully) the next books will follow soon after with releases in October and November! While this is unconventional in the publishing world, my anticipation is high, and I'm grateful not to have to wait much longer than a month for the next installments in the story.
Check out this book! I highly recommend it!
(... I wonder if books 2 and 3 will also be available on NetGalley...I hope so)
I was hooked weeks before I even got the book from NetGalley. I discovered the author's account promoting her new book series on TikTok and was instantly intrigued.
Historical fiction? Check.
A new magic system? Check.
Dark Academia vibes? Check.
Scottish accents? Check
The main characters are professors, not students? Check.
Some I've heard about the book is that it's too similar to other magical worlds. While I could certainly imagine what worlds those readers are hinting at, I think that there will naturally be some similarities because the nature of the book is historical fiction (and Scotland). That being said, it almost felt nostalgic. I was pleased with the setting because it felt quaint and exciting, and it was viewed through the eyes of adults, not children. Like visiting a beautiful college campus, it was romantic, in a sense. Also, I will say that the magic system and plot of the book felt original to me. I was hooked to read the last 25% - I couldn't put the book down, and I haven't been able to stop thinking about it.
Honestly, I had the best time reading this book, and I'm so excited that the author is going at her own pace in releasing the books of her series. The Gold Keepers releases in September and (thankfully) the next books will follow soon after with releases in October and November! While this is unconventional in the publishing world, my anticipation is high, and I'm grateful not to have to wait much longer than a month for the next installments in the story.
Check out this book! I highly recommend it!
(... I wonder if books 2 and 3 will also be available on NetGalley...I hope so)
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an advanced reader copy from the author.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Your FMC, Eileen Binchy, is a book archivist within her magical community who is appointed to the job as a professor at the Dunroven Academy, the school where kids go to study their magic. She is forced to teach a class with the MMC, Calum Markaine, an alumni of their school that aided in a war against their community.
I love how Eileen is also learning amongst her students. She is not the professor that believes she knows everything, which I think makes for the perfect professor. Her connection with Calum and to the overall story was interesting, I just wish we got more of the reasonings behinds Eileen helps Calum with the overall mission of the story. The reasons she helps them are valid, I just felt like there needed to be more as to why she wanted to risk her life to help him.
Love, love, love how the author gives you enough information to keep you aware of what’s happening, while also not revealing everything. Eileen is also “learning her lesson” by being kept completely in the dark about her employment switch. So you and her are both learning more about the weaver(the name of the individuals who use magic) world, it’s a wild ride.
The plot did not feel like it was dragging, I was engaged throughout the entire story. I cannot wait to read the second book in the trilogy to get more of backstory about Calum because he is a multi faceted character with a past that NEEDS to be told.
Thank you Elizabeth for the ARC!
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Your FMC, Eileen Binchy, is a book archivist within her magical community who is appointed to the job as a professor at the Dunroven Academy, the school where kids go to study their magic. She is forced to teach a class with the MMC, Calum Markaine, an alumni of their school that aided in a war against their community.
I love how Eileen is also learning amongst her students. She is not the professor that believes she knows everything, which I think makes for the perfect professor. Her connection with Calum and to the overall story was interesting, I just wish we got more of the reasonings behinds Eileen helps Calum with the overall mission of the story. The reasons she helps them are valid, I just felt like there needed to be more as to why she wanted to risk her life to help him.
Love, love, love how the author gives you enough information to keep you aware of what’s happening, while also not revealing everything. Eileen is also “learning her lesson” by being kept completely in the dark about her employment switch. So you and her are both learning more about the weaver(the name of the individuals who use magic) world, it’s a wild ride.
The plot did not feel like it was dragging, I was engaged throughout the entire story. I cannot wait to read the second book in the trilogy to get more of backstory about Calum because he is a multi faceted character with a past that NEEDS to be told.
Thank you Elizabeth for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an advanced reader copy from the author.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Your FMC, Eileen Binchy, is a book archivist within her magical community who is appointed to the job as a professor at the Dunroven Academy, the school where kids go to study their magic. She is forced to teach a class with the MMC, Calum Markaine, an alumni of their school that aided in a war against their community.
I love how Eileen is also learning amongst her students. She is not the professor that believes she knows everything, which I think makes for the perfect professor. Her connection with Calum and to the overall story was interesting, I just wish we got more of the reasonings behinds Eileen helps Calum with the overall mission of the story. The reasons she helps them are valid, I just felt like there needed to be more as to why she wanted to risk her life to help him.
Love, love, love how the author gives you enough information to keep you aware of what’s happening, while also not revealing everything. Eileen is also “learning her lesson” by being kept completely in the dark about her employment switch. So you and her are both learning more about the weaver world, it’s a wild ride.
The plot did not feel like it was dragging, I was engaged throughout the entire story. I cannot wait to read the second book in the trilogy to get more of backstory about Calum because he is a multi faceted character with a past that NEEDS to be told.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. Your FMC, Eileen Binchy, is a book archivist within her magical community who is appointed to the job as a professor at the Dunroven Academy, the school where kids go to study their magic. She is forced to teach a class with the MMC, Calum Markaine, an alumni of their school that aided in a war against their community.
I love how Eileen is also learning amongst her students. She is not the professor that believes she knows everything, which I think makes for the perfect professor. Her connection with Calum and to the overall story was interesting, I just wish we got more of the reasonings behinds Eileen helps Calum with the overall mission of the story. The reasons she helps them are valid, I just felt like there needed to be more as to why she wanted to risk her life to help him.
Love, love, love how the author gives you enough information to keep you aware of what’s happening, while also not revealing everything. Eileen is also “learning her lesson” by being kept completely in the dark about her employment switch. So you and her are both learning more about the weaver world, it’s a wild ride.
The plot did not feel like it was dragging, I was engaged throughout the entire story. I cannot wait to read the second book in the trilogy to get more of backstory about Calum because he is a multi faceted character with a past that NEEDS to be told.
August 14, 2026
The Gold Keepers is a wonderfully atmospheric blend of magic, mystery, and slow‑burn tension that pulled me in from the first chapter. Falkenberg captures 1950s Scotland with a moody, lived‑in charm, then layers it with a magic‑school setting that feels both nostalgic and distinctly grown‑up. It’s the kind of fantasy that doesn’t shout—it simmers.
Eileen Binchy is an immediately compelling protagonist: sharp, principled, and quietly wounded by the past she thought she’d left behind. Her reluctant return to Dunroven Academy sets the stage for a story that’s equal parts academic intrigue and emotional excavation. And then there’s Calum Markaine—enigmatic, disgraced, and impossible to pin down. Their dynamic is deliciously tense, full of wary glances, half‑truths, and the kind of slow‑burn chemistry that keeps you turning pages.
The time‑travel element is handled with a deft touch, weaving centuries of lore and lost relics into a mystery that feels genuinely high‑stakes. I loved how the novel balances elemental magic, historical threads, and personal reckoning without ever losing sight of its characters’ humanity.
Overall, The Gold Keepers is a richly crafted fantasy that rewards patient readers with atmosphere, depth, and a beautifully unfolding sense of trust and danger. A strong start to a series I’ll happily follow.
With thanks to Elizabeth Falkenberg, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Eileen Binchy is an immediately compelling protagonist: sharp, principled, and quietly wounded by the past she thought she’d left behind. Her reluctant return to Dunroven Academy sets the stage for a story that’s equal parts academic intrigue and emotional excavation. And then there’s Calum Markaine—enigmatic, disgraced, and impossible to pin down. Their dynamic is deliciously tense, full of wary glances, half‑truths, and the kind of slow‑burn chemistry that keeps you turning pages.
The time‑travel element is handled with a deft touch, weaving centuries of lore and lost relics into a mystery that feels genuinely high‑stakes. I loved how the novel balances elemental magic, historical threads, and personal reckoning without ever losing sight of its characters’ humanity.
Overall, The Gold Keepers is a richly crafted fantasy that rewards patient readers with atmosphere, depth, and a beautifully unfolding sense of trust and danger. A strong start to a series I’ll happily follow.
With thanks to Elizabeth Falkenberg, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
July 28, 2026
I enjoyed this a good bit! The Gold Keepers is a historical fantasy set in Scotland in the 1950s that follows Eileen and Calum, two professors at a magic school. There’s political scandals, ancient and powerful relics, and twists and turns that kept me engaged throughout.
I found the setting super alluring and I easily lost myself in the halls of Dunroven, Edinburgh, and more. I honestly haven’t read a magic school fantasy since Harry Potter and I was excited to return to that idea as an adult!
I enjoyed Eileen as a protagonist. I found her to be headstrong and at times impulsive, yet I related to her and really enjoyed reading from her perspective. Also I adored Calum, but I felt bad for him for like 75% of the novel (which maybe made me like him more?)
I thought the writing was beautiful and done very well. There were times that I felt the book was a bit too long, but overall the pacing was good. I have a few lingering questions about the magic system and the Gold King, but I’m hoping those will be clarified in the second book?
Overall, I think this is a fantastic debut novel and I look forward to the next two books in the series!
Thank you to Falkenberg Publishing LLC for an ARC of this book.
I found the setting super alluring and I easily lost myself in the halls of Dunroven, Edinburgh, and more. I honestly haven’t read a magic school fantasy since Harry Potter and I was excited to return to that idea as an adult!
I enjoyed Eileen as a protagonist. I found her to be headstrong and at times impulsive, yet I related to her and really enjoyed reading from her perspective. Also I adored Calum, but I felt bad for him for like 75% of the novel (which maybe made me like him more?)
I thought the writing was beautiful and done very well. There were times that I felt the book was a bit too long, but overall the pacing was good. I have a few lingering questions about the magic system and the Gold King, but I’m hoping those will be clarified in the second book?
Overall, I think this is a fantastic debut novel and I look forward to the next two books in the series!
Thank you to Falkenberg Publishing LLC for an ARC of this book.
August 15, 2026
Thank you to Victory Editing and Elizabeth Falkenberg for this ARC!
Set in 1953 Scotland, Eileen Binchy is forced to return to her alma mater, Dunroven Academy, and face the trials of her past. Not only is she met with the challenge to teach, but she is also paired with Calum Markaine, who can only be described as the enemy. During their time at Dunroven, they face magical ordeals and mysteries. They need to work together to unfold their new mystery, but Eileen must decide if her enemy can actually be trusted.
I really enjoyed the magic system throughout this book and the setting of Dunroven Academy. This book was like a version of Harry Potter, instead it has elemental magic, and we’re following the two new hot young teachers. The writing in this was incredible and it really helped us be immersed in the world.
Eileen Bincy is definitely a complex character. She’s sharp around the edges and isn’t initially easy to relate to. The author does give us easter eggs throughout the story to help us get to know Eileen, but getting to know her was just as slow burn as the romance. The only qualm I had with the romance was how I felt like we still didn’t truly know Eileen before she got in her romance. So, if she responded in a particular manner, I didn’t fully understand why. There was an epic groveling scene, but again I almost wished it would have happened later because we were still figuring out our main protagonist. Overall, this book had a really great magic system, setting, and male main character! I just wish that we spent some time getting to know Eileen a little bit more.
My last note is how much I loved Calum! I thought he was quick witted, humorous, and delightful to read about. I hope we can get some of his POV in the later installments.
Set in 1953 Scotland, Eileen Binchy is forced to return to her alma mater, Dunroven Academy, and face the trials of her past. Not only is she met with the challenge to teach, but she is also paired with Calum Markaine, who can only be described as the enemy. During their time at Dunroven, they face magical ordeals and mysteries. They need to work together to unfold their new mystery, but Eileen must decide if her enemy can actually be trusted.
I really enjoyed the magic system throughout this book and the setting of Dunroven Academy. This book was like a version of Harry Potter, instead it has elemental magic, and we’re following the two new hot young teachers. The writing in this was incredible and it really helped us be immersed in the world.
Eileen Bincy is definitely a complex character. She’s sharp around the edges and isn’t initially easy to relate to. The author does give us easter eggs throughout the story to help us get to know Eileen, but getting to know her was just as slow burn as the romance. The only qualm I had with the romance was how I felt like we still didn’t truly know Eileen before she got in her romance. So, if she responded in a particular manner, I didn’t fully understand why. There was an epic groveling scene, but again I almost wished it would have happened later because we were still figuring out our main protagonist. Overall, this book had a really great magic system, setting, and male main character! I just wish that we spent some time getting to know Eileen a little bit more.
My last note is how much I loved Calum! I thought he was quick witted, humorous, and delightful to read about. I hope we can get some of his POV in the later installments.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for allowing me the chance to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed the premise and the blurb of this story and was excited to have the chance to early read this book! I did struggle with the first 30% of the book, I wasn't connecting to it and felt confused at times by the magic system, the world, and the pacing. There was so much information given but I also feel like the things I wanted information on was not shared. After reading the blurb on book 2 at the end I believe a lot of my confusion will be cleared then.
I really started getting into the book at around the 50% mark, and was fully hooked in the last 20%. My jaw was on the floor after a certain event!! The slow burn was a genuine slow burn with little pay off to the build up, which doesn't necessarily upset me. I do hope maybe we get a bit more of Eileen and Calum in the third book, who knows!
Overall, I did end up enjoying this book, and will more than likely pick up book 2 to learn more of the inner workings that lead up to the events in this one!
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed the premise and the blurb of this story and was excited to have the chance to early read this book! I did struggle with the first 30% of the book, I wasn't connecting to it and felt confused at times by the magic system, the world, and the pacing. There was so much information given but I also feel like the things I wanted information on was not shared. After reading the blurb on book 2 at the end I believe a lot of my confusion will be cleared then.
I really started getting into the book at around the 50% mark, and was fully hooked in the last 20%. My jaw was on the floor after a certain event!! The slow burn was a genuine slow burn with little pay off to the build up, which doesn't necessarily upset me. I do hope maybe we get a bit more of Eileen and Calum in the third book, who knows!
Overall, I did end up enjoying this book, and will more than likely pick up book 2 to learn more of the inner workings that lead up to the events in this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
(Review of the Advanced Reader Copy received from the author)
Set in 1953 Scotland, Eileen is assigned to co-teach a class with Calum at the Dunroven school of magic, where they both went as students.
Although I enjoyed the premise of the story, I had a hard time getting into it at first and finally did at about 40% of the book. I liked the storyline and adventure that Eileen and Calum embark in together, although it was sometimes a little confusing to follow along and clearly understand what they were looking for and hoping to achieve (I still don't understand why there are multiple copies of the armor).
Although it is advertised as a slow burn, it didn't feel like it for me as I found that it lacked the building of the romantic tension and the small moments between the characters that leave us wanting for more. Them together came abruptly in the last few chapters and epilogue, and it was a bit of a let down for me.
Knowing that books 2 and 3 will be coming out soon, and that I really want to see the resolution of the epic battle that is promised to happen, I'll definitely stick with it.
Set in 1953 Scotland, Eileen is assigned to co-teach a class with Calum at the Dunroven school of magic, where they both went as students.
Although I enjoyed the premise of the story, I had a hard time getting into it at first and finally did at about 40% of the book. I liked the storyline and adventure that Eileen and Calum embark in together, although it was sometimes a little confusing to follow along and clearly understand what they were looking for and hoping to achieve (I still don't understand why there are multiple copies of the armor).
Although it is advertised as a slow burn, it didn't feel like it for me as I found that it lacked the building of the romantic tension and the small moments between the characters that leave us wanting for more. Them together came abruptly in the last few chapters and epilogue, and it was a bit of a let down for me.
Knowing that books 2 and 3 will be coming out soon, and that I really want to see the resolution of the epic battle that is promised to happen, I'll definitely stick with it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly thank you so much to Elizabeth for giving me the opportunity to read this as an ARC! Overall I really enjoyed this book the magic system was intriguing and the story had a cosy mysterious vibe to it.
However there were times that I struggled throughout, there were some elements that I wish had been a bit further developed/explained for example the time travel element, some aspects of the magic system and character histories seemed to be glossed over at times. The first 20-30% of the book took me some time to get used to as the pacing felt a bit confusing. There was lots of information but also things I wished we got more information on.
After the 30% mark I really enjoyed the story and began to understand the characters more. Eileen as a main character was very raw and real with her flaws and quirks, the dynamic between her and Calum and the very slow burn was enjoyable to read. The brief description of book 2 at the end being set 10 years prior to this book gives me hope that some of the things missed in this book will be explored more there and I am very likely to read book 2.
However there were times that I struggled throughout, there were some elements that I wish had been a bit further developed/explained for example the time travel element, some aspects of the magic system and character histories seemed to be glossed over at times. The first 20-30% of the book took me some time to get used to as the pacing felt a bit confusing. There was lots of information but also things I wished we got more information on.
After the 30% mark I really enjoyed the story and began to understand the characters more. Eileen as a main character was very raw and real with her flaws and quirks, the dynamic between her and Calum and the very slow burn was enjoyable to read. The brief description of book 2 at the end being set 10 years prior to this book gives me hope that some of the things missed in this book will be explored more there and I am very likely to read book 2.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Gold Keepers features a brilliant and highly unique premise. Shifting the typical "magic school" setting away from teenage students to focus on the adult professors—all amidst a moody, postwar 1950s Scotland backdrop—is fantastic. Elizabeth Falkenberg builds a rich, dark academia aesthetic filled with tweed, fountain pens, foggy train stations, and elemental magic. The mystery surrounding lost, century-spanning relics and Calum’s hidden agenda is genuinely intriguing.
However, the execution stumbles when it comes to the story's actual momentum. Juggling elemental magic systems, an overarching mystery, and actual time travel causes the middle of the book to drag under heavy lore setup. Additionally, while the slow-burn romantic suspense between Eileen and Calum has plenty of potential, it burns a bit too slowly, lacking the sharp emotional tension needed to anchor their timeline-hopping journey. It is a beautifully atmospheric debut, but it needs tighter pacing and sharper character dynamics to truly shine.
However, the execution stumbles when it comes to the story's actual momentum. Juggling elemental magic systems, an overarching mystery, and actual time travel causes the middle of the book to drag under heavy lore setup. Additionally, while the slow-burn romantic suspense between Eileen and Calum has plenty of potential, it burns a bit too slowly, lacking the sharp emotional tension needed to anchor their timeline-hopping journey. It is a beautifully atmospheric debut, but it needs tighter pacing and sharper character dynamics to truly shine.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book has mystery, it has folklore, it has the slowest burn romance, and I enjoyed it completely. The story itself is slow paced. There were several parts where I thought “that will make sense later” and some of them did while others still don’t make sense.
I loved the way magic just is in this world, it’s not explained to a tiresome level, it just is. I also love all the pieces of Scotland that we get to see through this book.
I didn’t love the characters, they felt flat to me. Eileen is an anxious woman, who has strong morals and ideals, and that’s admirable. However, she doesn’t seem to grow in this story. Even at the end, it felt like she was at the precipice of growth, but we just don’t get there. Calum, through Eileen’s eyes, does grow and change, but we still don’t get enough of him.
The next book in this trilogy seems to be a prequel, explaining events that are mentioned in this book, and it is possibly from Calum’s POV. I look forward to reading that story, as well.
I loved the way magic just is in this world, it’s not explained to a tiresome level, it just is. I also love all the pieces of Scotland that we get to see through this book.
I didn’t love the characters, they felt flat to me. Eileen is an anxious woman, who has strong morals and ideals, and that’s admirable. However, she doesn’t seem to grow in this story. Even at the end, it felt like she was at the precipice of growth, but we just don’t get there. Calum, through Eileen’s eyes, does grow and change, but we still don’t get enough of him.
The next book in this trilogy seems to be a prequel, explaining events that are mentioned in this book, and it is possibly from Calum’s POV. I look forward to reading that story, as well.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you are a fan of Rose in Chains, Heartless Hunter, and a Discovery of Witches this is the book for you!
I had the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I loved the world created by Elizabeth Falkenberg and the way in which she seamlessly built a magic system within the plot of the book.
This is the first book in a three book series and the seeds have been planted for an amazing - “oh so you’ve liked me all along” slow burn. I can’t wait to see when Eileen realizes what has been obvious to everyone else. However, there were parts of the book that left me confused and wondering what happened between chapters. Perhaps I just wanted more of the characters, but there were moments when I would wonder how we arrived at Point B from Point A.
I suspect that many of the missing pieces were intentional -and a part of a greater plan- and I cannot wait to return to Dunroven Academy to see what other secrets are being kept and if our perfectly imperfect professors are in line for a HEA.
I had the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I loved the world created by Elizabeth Falkenberg and the way in which she seamlessly built a magic system within the plot of the book.
This is the first book in a three book series and the seeds have been planted for an amazing - “oh so you’ve liked me all along” slow burn. I can’t wait to see when Eileen realizes what has been obvious to everyone else. However, there were parts of the book that left me confused and wondering what happened between chapters. Perhaps I just wanted more of the characters, but there were moments when I would wonder how we arrived at Point B from Point A.
I suspect that many of the missing pieces were intentional -and a part of a greater plan- and I cannot wait to return to Dunroven Academy to see what other secrets are being kept and if our perfectly imperfect professors are in line for a HEA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was so excited to read this debut novel. I love the dark academia vibes and the setting taking place in Scotland. It is such an atmospheric read. I was drawn into the story because this is really giving Dramione vibes, which I absolutely love, if you know you know. I think the magic system was unique but a little confusing for me personally and hope it will be built up more in the second book. The beginning was a little slow to catch my attention but once it did then I was completely hooked in and could not stop reading. The ending has some good twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. The romance is very slow burn which I love and I can't wait to see how this story will progress in books two and three. I highly recommend giving this one a read, it will be such a perfect fall time read.
Thank you Netgalley and Falkenberg Publishing LLC for the digital arc in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and Falkenberg Publishing LLC for the digital arc in exchange for my honest review.
August 26, 2026
The premise of The Gold Keepers immediately had me intrigued—1950s Scotland, a hidden magical society, an academy of magic, old legends that may not be legends after all, and two characters with a complicated shared history? Say less.
I especially loved the idea of magic being woven into a historical setting and the darker, more adult approach to the magical-academy genre. There’s mystery, political tension, buried history, morally complicated characters, and just enough romance threaded through it all to make the premise even more compelling.
Such a creative concept and the beginning of a trilogy with so much potential. If you love historical fantasy, dark academia, secret magical societies, and stories where the past refuses to stay buried, The Gold Keepers is absolutely one to have on your radar.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I especially loved the idea of magic being woven into a historical setting and the darker, more adult approach to the magical-academy genre. There’s mystery, political tension, buried history, morally complicated characters, and just enough romance threaded through it all to make the premise even more compelling.
Such a creative concept and the beginning of a trilogy with so much potential. If you love historical fantasy, dark academia, secret magical societies, and stories where the past refuses to stay buried, The Gold Keepers is absolutely one to have on your radar.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to the author for this ARC and opportunity to get an early peek at the book! I liked SO much about this book - I love historical fiction and was so excited to see where it was going to go with a fantasy/time travel plot woven in. I loved the setting of dark academia Scotland, loved the idea of getting a more adult character as professor rather than a student - this felt very new!
Some things did feel a bit confusing. I do wish we got more information up front about the Bleeders movement, Calum and Eileen's history, etc that would have helped to make the twists and final plot points of this story have more of an impact. I know that we are getting more of a prequel with book 2 that should explain some things, I'm looking forward to it!
I
Some things did feel a bit confusing. I do wish we got more information up front about the Bleeders movement, Calum and Eileen's history, etc that would have helped to make the twists and final plot points of this story have more of an impact. I know that we are getting more of a prequel with book 2 that should explain some things, I'm looking forward to it!
I
Review of advance copy received from Author
**4.25/5
I received an ARC from the author.
Imagine a magic school, set in 1950s Scotland, but focusing on the professors. Eileen Binchy is a librarian (of sorts) who is sent to her Alma mater, Dunroven, to teach a subject she really doesn’t have any expertise in. But she quickly learns there’s a lot more to the situation. This book serves up a wonderful mix of ancient relics, a really interesting magical system, time-travel chaos, and a slow-burn romance with a disgraced former classmate who is Eileen’s co-teacher.
As the first entry in a trilogy, Elizabeth Falkenberg does a really great job world-building and introducing characters that already feel deeply developed. It left me entirely hooked and genuinely excited to dive into the next two books.
I received an ARC from the author.
Imagine a magic school, set in 1950s Scotland, but focusing on the professors. Eileen Binchy is a librarian (of sorts) who is sent to her Alma mater, Dunroven, to teach a subject she really doesn’t have any expertise in. But she quickly learns there’s a lot more to the situation. This book serves up a wonderful mix of ancient relics, a really interesting magical system, time-travel chaos, and a slow-burn romance with a disgraced former classmate who is Eileen’s co-teacher.
As the first entry in a trilogy, Elizabeth Falkenberg does a really great job world-building and introducing characters that already feel deeply developed. It left me entirely hooked and genuinely excited to dive into the next two books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
2.5 stars but rounding up to 3 because there were a few quotes that really resonated with me.
Why is it kind of giving manacled fanfic? (And lowkey potentially Captain Marvel? But that guess is more a book 3 kind of thing) I felt confused for a solid 1/3 of this story - like I’m missing foundational pieces of information that shouldn’t be held until later books. Like, yes, I can infer things from the references made to past events, but nothing is certain or strong enough to give me conviction of thought or understanding. Love the premise and the ideas of the characters, but I’m not really feeling any chemistry (platonic or romantic). I’m cool with the single POV and a prickly FMC, but at times Eileen’s self righteousness did irritate me. Glass houses, my girl.
Why is it kind of giving manacled fanfic? (And lowkey potentially Captain Marvel? But that guess is more a book 3 kind of thing) I felt confused for a solid 1/3 of this story - like I’m missing foundational pieces of information that shouldn’t be held until later books. Like, yes, I can infer things from the references made to past events, but nothing is certain or strong enough to give me conviction of thought or understanding. Love the premise and the ideas of the characters, but I’m not really feeling any chemistry (platonic or romantic). I’m cool with the single POV and a prickly FMC, but at times Eileen’s self righteousness did irritate me. Glass houses, my girl.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I am a self-professed Potterhead. My husband and I are big Harry Potter fans. The Gold Keepers is a Scottish magical academy novel that reminds me a lot of the Harry Potter books and their prequel movies. From the grittiness to the characters to the storyline, I kept recalling elements from the Potter books while reading.
In her debut novel, Elizabeth Falkenberg takes us through a journey of discovering truth, realizing myths are anything but, and how reluctant allies turn out to be more.
This was an enjoyable read, and being the first in a trilogy, there's a lot left to uncover.
Many thanks to Elizabeth for the ARC to read and review!
In her debut novel, Elizabeth Falkenberg takes us through a journey of discovering truth, realizing myths are anything but, and how reluctant allies turn out to be more.
This was an enjoyable read, and being the first in a trilogy, there's a lot left to uncover.
Many thanks to Elizabeth for the ARC to read and review!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was brilliant. I was instantly sucked into the world Falkenberg created full of Weavers of magic and magical schools on lone isles. I'll admit the lore and the timeline confused me at times but the characters and the setting made up for it somewhat. I adored Eileen and her relationship with Calum was so interesting to watch unfold. I would have liked the ending to be a bit more fleshed out, but since this is a series I'll give it some grace.
Thank you to NetGalley and Falkenburg Publishing LLC for providing me an ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and Falkenburg Publishing LLC for providing me an ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was such a fun read. I had the opportunity to enjoy this as an ARC after seeing a video on tiktok- talking the book up. (Thank you Elizabeth Falkenberg!)
It reminded me of Divine Rivals- only with time travel, and magic. I will admit that the world building at was hard for me to get through at first. Once I got through that bit, i found myself really getting wrapped up in the characters and the story. I found myself wanting to get lost in the library, and explore the school. I would be interested in seeing what happens next with the story.
It reminded me of Divine Rivals- only with time travel, and magic. I will admit that the world building at was hard for me to get through at first. Once I got through that bit, i found myself really getting wrapped up in the characters and the story. I found myself wanting to get lost in the library, and explore the school. I would be interested in seeing what happens next with the story.
September 30, 2026
In 1953, Eileen Binchy, a Council Archivist, was suddenly sent to Dunroven Academy to replace an ill professor. She detests her co-teacher Calum Markaine. Unfortunately Calum has a different agenda that is tied to an ancient myth of the Gold King. Somehow Eileen is caught up in a quest to find three magical objects from the past. Starting in Edinburgh six centuries earlier. Elizabeth Falkenberg’s tale of The Gold Keepers(ebook from Falkenberg Publishing LLC) is not only a look at a magical academy through the eyes of Professors, but it has a solid puzzle to keep up the fun. I enjoyed it.
July 29, 2026
3.75: Lucky enough to get this as an ARC. Enjoyed the overall plot of this book and thoroughly enjoyed the setting. Timeline was a little hard to follow at times with medium jumps ahead that weren’t always evident. Would have loved to see more of the history and romantic relationship between Eileen and Calum as the book went on. Glad I took the time to dip my toes back into the fantasy genre for this one.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was great. It was very easy to get immersed into the magical world the author has created. There were a few different times where the timeline confused me a little bit but it didn’t take long to get back onto track. The characters and setting were written very well and helped keep me immersed and interested throughout the book.
Review of advanced copy from NetGalley
Review of advanced copy from NetGalley
August 9, 2026
Thank you for the ARC!!
I really loved the setting of this - usually it’s hard for me to get into urban fantasy but the cadence of the book made it enjoyable rather than forced. I would have loved a deeper dive into the war/time traveling aspect since the first 20% was difficult to jump into.
I believe these themes might be explored further in book 2 and I’m excited for it!
I really loved the setting of this - usually it’s hard for me to get into urban fantasy but the cadence of the book made it enjoyable rather than forced. I would have loved a deeper dive into the war/time traveling aspect since the first 20% was difficult to jump into.
I believe these themes might be explored further in book 2 and I’m excited for it!
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