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Pennyroyal Academy #2
The Shadow Cadets of Pennyroyal Academy
Perfect for fans of The School for Good and Evil comes the eagerly anticipated follow-up to M. A. Larson's Pennyroyal Academy, hailed by the New York Times as a "breathtakingly exciting novel" with a heroine who "deserves a special place in a new pantheon of capable, feisty and, yes, admirable literary princesses."
When Princess Cadet Evie returns to Pennyroyal Academy, she’s suddenly become famous. Word has traveled far and wide of her defeating the witches and has inspired a wave of new recruits to the Academy. Though flattering, the unexpected attention is overwhelming for Evie, and amidst the piles and piles of fan mail, she finds a letter with an ominous threat. A secret society has come out of the shadows with a wicked plan, putting the Academy in great peril. This new enemy has powers impervious to the princess’s magic—posing a new risk to Evie and her friends. The danger looms even larger when Evie discovers someone close to the Academy may not be who they seem. It’s up to Evie and her friends to uncover the devious plot and save their once venerable Academy before it’s too late.
This sequel to the beloved, critically-acclaimed Pennyroyal Academy promises middle-grade readers even more adventure and suspense.
When Princess Cadet Evie returns to Pennyroyal Academy, she’s suddenly become famous. Word has traveled far and wide of her defeating the witches and has inspired a wave of new recruits to the Academy. Though flattering, the unexpected attention is overwhelming for Evie, and amidst the piles and piles of fan mail, she finds a letter with an ominous threat. A secret society has come out of the shadows with a wicked plan, putting the Academy in great peril. This new enemy has powers impervious to the princess’s magic—posing a new risk to Evie and her friends. The danger looms even larger when Evie discovers someone close to the Academy may not be who they seem. It’s up to Evie and her friends to uncover the devious plot and save their once venerable Academy before it’s too late.
This sequel to the beloved, critically-acclaimed Pennyroyal Academy promises middle-grade readers even more adventure and suspense.
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First published May 17, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
January 20, 2020
Evie and friends are back in a brand new adventure. As their second year of PennyRoyal Academy commences, Evie and the other Princess Cadets are busy trying to survive their school year. Can they though while fighting off the Vertreiben a terrible organization of witches? Read on and find out for yourself.
This was a great second installment of the PennyRoyal Academy Trilogy. If you love fantasy stories aboue princess and wtiches, then be sure to check this book out at your local library and wherever books are sold.
This was a great second installment of the PennyRoyal Academy Trilogy. If you love fantasy stories aboue princess and wtiches, then be sure to check this book out at your local library and wherever books are sold.
May 18, 2018
The second book in this amazing series with tons of training, princesses, drama, witches, dragons, and so much more!
I was so happy when I had the chance to read this book, I loved the first one and I was very curious as to how the story would continue. What kind of stuff would happen in Evie's second year at the Academy? Would there be witches? How would her relationship with Remington go (ship ship and ship)? Would any of her friends have to leave the academy (because we are still at Pennyroyal Academy and the tiniest thing can get you kicked out)?
I have to say that at first the book was a bit boring. I was definitely not that motivated to read and it took me 4 days before I finally got back to the book. I struggled again, but then they finally got the academy and I was instantly in love again. I have no clue why, but the outside world just didn't interest me that much. I just wanted more of Pennyroyal Academy. Plus, why didn't any of her friends just tell Evie how to send letters? They should have known she wouldn't have the faintest clue what to do.
The second year at the Academy was one filled with new teachers (and old), new lessons, swordfighting (yes, Evie is learning how to use the sword she got at the beginning, and Basil is just too dang amazing with swordfighting), making food for the new recruits (and there are a ton of them this year), some lessons were calm, but others meant running until your body burst. I also liked that the girls had to do some first year lessons due to what happened in the previous book. I was already wondering how that would be done, but they have to finish that course before they are fully second years.
The lessons? Well, I am not too sure about those that require a person to continue until they drop, but I did like the lessons by the princess turned goat and also the lessons on how to escape, finding hidden entrances. I would have loved to see more lessons, but then the book may have gotten a bit boring and long and that wouldn't be good either.
I loved reading the author's version of Pied Piper of Hameln and Cinderella. Especially Hameln's story had me on the edge of my seat. Oh boy, that is sure a dark and disturbing twist.
Evie was a pretty great character again in this one. I loved how she handled the fame that came with her being the so-called Warrior Princess. She didn't feel cocky, she didn't act like she was better. This is something I see happening so often that it was a relief that Evie stayed her own self. Well, sure, she changed since the first time we saw her, but that is natural. I loved how she was kind and attentive to everyone, and eventually even learned to just tune it all out (which I can imagine, it may be a bit rude, but come on, the girl has a very big year ahead of her and she shouldn't be too distracted).
I loved how she tried to stay close to her dragon family. While she may not have been as close as she was before she went to the Academy, she still wanted to see them. She still tried to be a dragon, yep. No more flying, this time she is trying to breathe fire.
There was some friendship drama, and I just didn't like it. Maggie and Demetra are constantly bickering or ignoring each other. Demetra has new friends and they just don't mix well with Evie, Maggie, and Basil. There is jealousy, there is angry looks. So I was rooting that these girls (and Basil) would just get back together and be the best of friends. At times I was shouting at them to just talk for once and get all the issues out in the open.
Then there was the threat of the witches, Evie saw something that was quite horrifying, there are rogue Princesses (Vertreiben), and then there is the epic ending where everything and everyone clashes. The rogue Princesses? Eh, on the one hand I didn't like them that much. But on the other hand I could sympathise with them. I know how harsh the Academy is with kicking girls out. The smallest bit and you could be on your way home, like that girl who said the wrong word. I can imagine that one would be pissed off. I would also be pissed off if, after all I did and trained, I would get kicked off because of this. I still don't approve of their actions, but I can understand why they would go so far.
The Witches' Night. OMG OMG, I would be so very terrified. One moment you are sleeping and the next you are running for your life and praying that you will make the cut. It was all so terrifying and exciting. Poor girls. I loved Evie though, and especially what she did.
Oh, and I loved reading about the jobs the girls could choose from. Easy jobs, harsher jobs. I am not sure what I would choose, I definitely wouldn't choose the dangerous one though. :P
We also find out some things about Evie's past (like her real name, which was certainly something I hadn't thought of yet).
Then there was the very exciting ending. I won't tell you anything, you will just have to read, but know that you will be on the edge of your seat.
All in all, I could probably talk a lot more about this book as I really liked it, but I think I have said the most important things. I would just recommend this book to everyone, and I am hoping that I will be able to get the 3rd, and I am guessing final, book soon.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
I was so happy when I had the chance to read this book, I loved the first one and I was very curious as to how the story would continue. What kind of stuff would happen in Evie's second year at the Academy? Would there be witches? How would her relationship with Remington go (ship ship and ship)? Would any of her friends have to leave the academy (because we are still at Pennyroyal Academy and the tiniest thing can get you kicked out)?
I have to say that at first the book was a bit boring. I was definitely not that motivated to read and it took me 4 days before I finally got back to the book. I struggled again, but then they finally got the academy and I was instantly in love again. I have no clue why, but the outside world just didn't interest me that much. I just wanted more of Pennyroyal Academy. Plus, why didn't any of her friends just tell Evie how to send letters? They should have known she wouldn't have the faintest clue what to do.
The second year at the Academy was one filled with new teachers (and old), new lessons, swordfighting (yes, Evie is learning how to use the sword she got at the beginning, and Basil is just too dang amazing with swordfighting), making food for the new recruits (and there are a ton of them this year), some lessons were calm, but others meant running until your body burst. I also liked that the girls had to do some first year lessons due to what happened in the previous book. I was already wondering how that would be done, but they have to finish that course before they are fully second years.
The lessons? Well, I am not too sure about those that require a person to continue until they drop, but I did like the lessons by the princess turned goat and also the lessons on how to escape, finding hidden entrances. I would have loved to see more lessons, but then the book may have gotten a bit boring and long and that wouldn't be good either.
I loved reading the author's version of Pied Piper of Hameln and Cinderella. Especially Hameln's story had me on the edge of my seat. Oh boy, that is sure a dark and disturbing twist.
Evie was a pretty great character again in this one. I loved how she handled the fame that came with her being the so-called Warrior Princess. She didn't feel cocky, she didn't act like she was better. This is something I see happening so often that it was a relief that Evie stayed her own self. Well, sure, she changed since the first time we saw her, but that is natural. I loved how she was kind and attentive to everyone, and eventually even learned to just tune it all out (which I can imagine, it may be a bit rude, but come on, the girl has a very big year ahead of her and she shouldn't be too distracted).
I loved how she tried to stay close to her dragon family. While she may not have been as close as she was before she went to the Academy, she still wanted to see them. She still tried to be a dragon, yep. No more flying, this time she is trying to breathe fire.
There was some friendship drama, and I just didn't like it. Maggie and Demetra are constantly bickering or ignoring each other. Demetra has new friends and they just don't mix well with Evie, Maggie, and Basil. There is jealousy, there is angry looks. So I was rooting that these girls (and Basil) would just get back together and be the best of friends. At times I was shouting at them to just talk for once and get all the issues out in the open.
Then there was the threat of the witches, Evie saw something that was quite horrifying, there are rogue Princesses (Vertreiben), and then there is the epic ending where everything and everyone clashes. The rogue Princesses? Eh, on the one hand I didn't like them that much. But on the other hand I could sympathise with them. I know how harsh the Academy is with kicking girls out. The smallest bit and you could be on your way home, like that girl who said the wrong word. I can imagine that one would be pissed off. I would also be pissed off if, after all I did and trained, I would get kicked off because of this. I still don't approve of their actions, but I can understand why they would go so far.
The Witches' Night. OMG OMG, I would be so very terrified. One moment you are sleeping and the next you are running for your life and praying that you will make the cut. It was all so terrifying and exciting. Poor girls. I loved Evie though, and especially what she did.
Oh, and I loved reading about the jobs the girls could choose from. Easy jobs, harsher jobs. I am not sure what I would choose, I definitely wouldn't choose the dangerous one though. :P
We also find out some things about Evie's past (like her real name, which was certainly something I hadn't thought of yet).
Then there was the very exciting ending. I won't tell you anything, you will just have to read, but know that you will be on the edge of your seat.
All in all, I could probably talk a lot more about this book as I really liked it, but I think I have said the most important things. I would just recommend this book to everyone, and I am hoping that I will be able to get the 3rd, and I am guessing final, book soon.
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
August 6, 2018
I loved this book. It begins around the end of Evie's summer before her second year as a Pennyroyal Academy Princess Cadet and follows her through her second year. Fed up with her dragon family and antsy to get back to the fascinating world of humans, and most importantly to her friends and her beloved school, Evie sets off early to travel to Demetra's home of Blackmarsh. Along the way, she witnesses something disturbing that hints to a new enemy threatening them all. Soon enough, Evie's once more busy training to become a Princess of the Shield and worrying about what might just turn out to be a distant threat is distracting. Could this old enemy be working with the witches? Is everyone and everything she's come to love in danger from an unexpected quarter?
This year Ironbone Company has now merged with another Third-Class Company to form Leatherwolf Company under an imposing new House Princess - and her rooster. There are new teachers, new training methods, and new and old dangers to face.
I loved this continuation of Evie's story and was so excited to read the next book, which also did not disappoint in the least! Highly recommended!
This year Ironbone Company has now merged with another Third-Class Company to form Leatherwolf Company under an imposing new House Princess - and her rooster. There are new teachers, new training methods, and new and old dangers to face.
I loved this continuation of Evie's story and was so excited to read the next book, which also did not disappoint in the least! Highly recommended!
June 29, 2017
Aż chciałoby się cofnąć w czasie, by jeszcze będąc dziewczynką poznać Evie i u jej boku dołączyć do Akademii! M. A. Larson wykreował czarodziejską, baśniową atmosferę, która urzeka czytelnika od pierwszej strony. Dorośli odnajdą tutaj znajome motywy swojego dzieciństwa – ukłonią się Bracia Grimm, księżniczki z tradycyjnych baśni, czy disneyowska aura pierwszych „księżniczkowych” animacji. A dzieciaki pochłonie nowy, piękny świat, któremu nie sposób się oprzeć – okrutne, spotworzałe wiedźmy, waleczne księżniczki, którym daleko do uroczych damulek, ziejące ogniem smoki, czyli wszystko to, co gwarantuje niezapomnianą przygodę. Dla mniejszych i większych walecznych serc!
March 16, 2017
Damsel is distress? The Princess cadets of Pennyroyal Academy don't even know those words. They fight for themselves, training to someday become princesses who defeat witches. That is, if they don't get discharged first.
It's Evie's second year at Pennyroyal and it's already taken a trip downhill. Hazelbranch isn't her house princess, her friends seem to be drifting away, and Maggie's on the verge of being discharged. Yikes. But wait, there's more! Evie has tons of adoring fans thanks to her face off with Hardcastle last year. But mixed in with fan mail, she finds threats and warnings from "a friend." Who is this friend? Who are the Vertreiben? And will Evie's friendships disappear?
I loved Pennyroyal Academy, the first book. When I saw that there was a sequel I nearly fainted! I Immediately ordered it from the public library❤️. Yeah, it took me five days, but I was also reading two other books. I'm pretty sad Remington was discharged but I'm hoping as a reward for Evie's good work, he'll be allowed back. Pennyroyal Academy is awesome! Third book? I hope!
It's Evie's second year at Pennyroyal and it's already taken a trip downhill. Hazelbranch isn't her house princess, her friends seem to be drifting away, and Maggie's on the verge of being discharged. Yikes. But wait, there's more! Evie has tons of adoring fans thanks to her face off with Hardcastle last year. But mixed in with fan mail, she finds threats and warnings from "a friend." Who is this friend? Who are the Vertreiben? And will Evie's friendships disappear?
I loved Pennyroyal Academy, the first book. When I saw that there was a sequel I nearly fainted! I Immediately ordered it from the public library❤️. Yeah, it took me five days, but I was also reading two other books. I'm pretty sad Remington was discharged but I'm hoping as a reward for Evie's good work, he'll be allowed back. Pennyroyal Academy is awesome! Third book? I hope!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 28, 2019
It’s fine. I don’t think I would have liked it remarkably more having read/heard the first book; he almost insultingly ensured all the major points were explained in this one. The biggest drawback was the audiobook narration. Every phrase had the same rhythm and tone. Everything. Long descriptions of a room, huge battles, the aforementioned blocks of explanation of the last school year, all the same. You could autotune the entire book with about 4 pitches. I guess it speaks well of the book that I still listened to the whole thing.
August 10, 2016
Check out my other reviews, discussions and link ups at Fantasy of the Silver Dragon.
The first book concentrated a lot on what was happening inside the Academy. On the lessons, friendships, intrigue and day-to-day. This one had a little of the school day stuff, but mostly skimmed over that to focus on the friendships, things that happened before school started, and the mysteries Evie was trying to solve.
For a lot of the book, the four friends were separate from each other a lot. Not in physical distance, but emotional. From hiding away, to finding other friends to hang out with, it didn't have the closeness of the previous book. They do eventually work their issues, but it seemed to take an awfully long time to happen.
I loved the reveal on the major fairytale character we get to meet. (I won't say whom or when!) But it worked really well, and I liked how it all unfolded. I didn't like the way Evie treated her family, even if she did end up realizing and regretting it later on. It does make sense for her age and character, but it always seems like the dragons get the short end of the stick in this series.
I really do love the magic in this series. Parchment letters that turn into hawks to deliver themselves, fire-breathing, being able to make a shield by not letting your fear control you and having courage.
I also love that one of the Princesses in training is actually a boy. Basil is still one of my favorite characters, and he stayed true to himself while growing as a character too.
This review was originally posted on Fantasy of the Silver Dragon
The first book concentrated a lot on what was happening inside the Academy. On the lessons, friendships, intrigue and day-to-day. This one had a little of the school day stuff, but mostly skimmed over that to focus on the friendships, things that happened before school started, and the mysteries Evie was trying to solve.
For a lot of the book, the four friends were separate from each other a lot. Not in physical distance, but emotional. From hiding away, to finding other friends to hang out with, it didn't have the closeness of the previous book. They do eventually work their issues, but it seemed to take an awfully long time to happen.
I loved the reveal on the major fairytale character we get to meet. (I won't say whom or when!) But it worked really well, and I liked how it all unfolded. I didn't like the way Evie treated her family, even if she did end up realizing and regretting it later on. It does make sense for her age and character, but it always seems like the dragons get the short end of the stick in this series.
I really do love the magic in this series. Parchment letters that turn into hawks to deliver themselves, fire-breathing, being able to make a shield by not letting your fear control you and having courage.
I also love that one of the Princesses in training is actually a boy. Basil is still one of my favorite characters, and he stayed true to himself while growing as a character too.
This review was originally posted on Fantasy of the Silver Dragon
June 19, 2016
This is Evie's second year at Pennyroyal Academy, a three year version of Hogwarts that trains Princesses and Knights in a boot camp-type setting, complete with a fairy drill sergeant. Princesses main weapons are courage and love and they prevail against witches. However, since the academy regularly kicks out girls who are unworthy of becoming princesses, some of the unhappy flunkees have made their own secret society of unhappy campers who are opposed to the princesses. This story, like the first, is full of action, adventure, bravery from the princesses, who include Basil, the 22nd son of a woman who wanted one of her children to become a princess. Evie, who was raised by dragons, learned last school year that her father had been a king, but his second wife and her daughter were witches. Evie has a major identity crisis. Who is she really? Dragon, princess, witch's sister? Will she be able to enjoy her second year at school with her friends or will things all fall apart? I enjoyed this second book and I think that middle grade students will enjoy it also. I look forward to the next book.
November 28, 2016
This is Evie's second year at Pennyroyal Academy, a three year version of Hogwarts that trains Princesses and Knights in a boot camp-type setting, complete with a fairy drill sergeant. Princesses main weapons are courage and love and they prevail against witches. However, since the academy regularly kicks out girls who are unworthy of becoming princesses, some of the unhappy flunkees have made their own secret society of unhappy campers who are opposed to the princesses. This story, like the first, is full of action, adventure, bravery from the princesses, who include Basil, the 22nd son of a woman who wanted one of her children to become a princess. Evie, who was raised by dragons, learned last school year that her father had been a king, but his second wife and her daughter were witches. Evie has a major identity crisis. Who is she really? Dragon, princess, witch's sister? Will she be able to enjoy her second year at school with her friends or will things all fall apart? I enjoyed this second book and I think that middle grade students will enjoy it also. I look forward to the next book.
September 21, 2020
2.75 stars (after reading the entire series). A fair 2nd book in a trilogy.
However, I do think less critical readers would enjoy this book around a 4/5 star level. I just happen to be a little critical.
The author does lace familiar fairytale details, often doing it successfully. However, this book, and series, has a strong Harry Potter inspired feel with magical hawks (instead of owls) and different companies for the cadets (like Houses) which isn't a bad thing if done well. Unfortunately, I couldn't help but compare the storytelling between the two authors.
Larson's writing can feel a little disjointed but he is talented at creating exciting conflict. The downside is that often the resolution is anti-climatic. I felt disappointed with the resolution in this book, mostly because the author is very skilled at building tension in the story.
I would rate the entire series a 3/5, but this book wasn't as good as the other two.
However, I do think less critical readers would enjoy this book around a 4/5 star level. I just happen to be a little critical.
The author does lace familiar fairytale details, often doing it successfully. However, this book, and series, has a strong Harry Potter inspired feel with magical hawks (instead of owls) and different companies for the cadets (like Houses) which isn't a bad thing if done well. Unfortunately, I couldn't help but compare the storytelling between the two authors.
Larson's writing can feel a little disjointed but he is talented at creating exciting conflict. The downside is that often the resolution is anti-climatic. I felt disappointed with the resolution in this book, mostly because the author is very skilled at building tension in the story.
I would rate the entire series a 3/5, but this book wasn't as good as the other two.
June 19, 2016
Another fun adventure that shows that boys can be princesses, princesses can be dragons and the family you make matters as much as the one you're born to. Not quite as amazing as book one, but a series for young readers for sure.
August 9, 2016
Meh.
October 6, 2016
I didn't find this one as inspiring & go-girl-power as the first one, but it was still clever and enjoyable.
Read
February 6, 2017This book was an absolute stunner. It definitely lived up to it's predecessor (Book 1: Pennyroyal Academy) and I cannot wait for the third book to come out!
Recommended for ages: 9/10+
Recommended for ages: 9/10+
February 5, 2017
Exciting and heartbreaking. It's just as fascinating as the first. I can't wait for the third and final book!
May 4, 2018
This is a weird, difficult, nightmarish series that I would not give to anyone who does not like horror.
April 30, 2021
I was going to write that this book didn't have as many dramatic plot twists as the prequel ... but there were some plot twists near the end.
I guess I should've paid more attention to the various instructor princesses at the Pennyroyal Acadmy. They had all blurred together for me, but if I had paid more attention, I might have noticed ...
No, Evie hadn't built up the kind of connection with Malora to trust her with that mission. That was not very smart.
Yes, Basil was right in his advice to Evie about sword fighting. Wider, larger arcs and sweeps are slower and she did need to tighten in the range of her attacks. That's how I kept beating my cousin at French foil fencing one summer. In fact, Evie wouldn't last very long if she didn't, unless her opponents had no swordfighting experience whatsoever, and I would hate to depend on that. (Listen to Basil. Your life might depend on it.)
Most of this book wasn't as exciting as the prior book, but my husband (who also read these after my mid-teen) said to consider this 2nd book more as a bridge book between books 1 and 3 to set the stage for book 3.
My older teen, who hadn't even read this series, predicted some of Malora's comments about the relationship between witches and princesses.
One other reviewer said not to give this book to anyone who doesn't like horror. Hmm. I wouldn't classify it as horror, more as fantasy. I also don't personally care for the horror genre, apart from Mary Shelley's surprisingly touching "Frankenstein," but I did like this "The Shadow Cadets of Pennyroyal Academy." Not too horrific for me.
Several other reviewers commented on the comparisons between the Harry Potter series and this one. My mid-teen felt like Maggie was too similar to Hermoine, but I felt like they were just both bookworms. Hermoine had more courage than Maggie. Regarding Basil vs Ron: they are both comic relief, but Basil was more clever than Ron. I suppose that there are similarities between Harry and Evie (predictions about them, growing up in foster homes, in magical schools) but they seemed like different characters to me. Evie's ... SPOILER ... dragon background gave her personality a whole different flair.
This also reminded me a little of J. E. Sandoval's Ki Kalendeen Chronicles in that it chronicles what happened to those who don't quite make the cut. I have to say I prefer Sandoval's approach to "the Fallen" thus far. I think that readers of the Pennyroyal Academy would also enjoy Sandoval's works. There aren't warrior princesses exactly, but there are some tough female characters.
Favorite quote:
"This is discipline. Control your fear and move forward."
I guess I should've paid more attention to the various instructor princesses at the Pennyroyal Acadmy. They had all blurred together for me, but if I had paid more attention, I might have noticed ...
No, Evie hadn't built up the kind of connection with Malora to trust her with that mission. That was not very smart.
Yes, Basil was right in his advice to Evie about sword fighting. Wider, larger arcs and sweeps are slower and she did need to tighten in the range of her attacks. That's how I kept beating my cousin at French foil fencing one summer. In fact, Evie wouldn't last very long if she didn't, unless her opponents had no swordfighting experience whatsoever, and I would hate to depend on that. (Listen to Basil. Your life might depend on it.)
Most of this book wasn't as exciting as the prior book, but my husband (who also read these after my mid-teen) said to consider this 2nd book more as a bridge book between books 1 and 3 to set the stage for book 3.
My older teen, who hadn't even read this series, predicted some of Malora's comments about the relationship between witches and princesses.
One other reviewer said not to give this book to anyone who doesn't like horror. Hmm. I wouldn't classify it as horror, more as fantasy. I also don't personally care for the horror genre, apart from Mary Shelley's surprisingly touching "Frankenstein," but I did like this "The Shadow Cadets of Pennyroyal Academy." Not too horrific for me.
Several other reviewers commented on the comparisons between the Harry Potter series and this one. My mid-teen felt like Maggie was too similar to Hermoine, but I felt like they were just both bookworms. Hermoine had more courage than Maggie. Regarding Basil vs Ron: they are both comic relief, but Basil was more clever than Ron. I suppose that there are similarities between Harry and Evie (predictions about them, growing up in foster homes, in magical schools) but they seemed like different characters to me. Evie's ... SPOILER ... dragon background gave her personality a whole different flair.
This also reminded me a little of J. E. Sandoval's Ki Kalendeen Chronicles in that it chronicles what happened to those who don't quite make the cut. I have to say I prefer Sandoval's approach to "the Fallen" thus far. I think that readers of the Pennyroyal Academy would also enjoy Sandoval's works. There aren't warrior princesses exactly, but there are some tough female characters.
Favorite quote:
"This is discipline. Control your fear and move forward."
June 20, 2024
What I thought of it:
I really liked it, but, once again, there were parts that may be scary for younger readers, especially the description of Javotte, which I won't put word for word, but it did include descriptions of deep scars running down her face and onto her neck. Other than that, it was great, and I gave it 4 stars with a recommended reading age of 8 to 12
⚠️ WARNING ⚠️ SPOILERS IN THE FORM OF A SUMMARY LIE BELOW
Summary:
This book starts out with Evie and her dragon sister in the wood, with Evie trying to breathe fire. Evie is tired of her sister constantly making fun of her being human by laughing at her dresses, calling her girl, and much more, so Evie leaves her dragon family a note and goes to visit her friend Princess Demetra of Blackmarsh. On the way, she stops at an inn and, when on her way to bed, hears the old innkeeper talking to (what he called) 3 Princesses. The princesses are asking where they can find someone named Javotte. When the innkeeper tells them he hasn't seen her, they kill his wife. Then they find Evie's mirror with the Pennyroyal coat of arms on it and chase her out of the inn. Evie and her horse Boy head all the way to the Blackmarsh so she can stay there until term starts. When she arrives, Demetra shows her around and tells her that her older sister Princess Camilla will be there the next day, so Evie could tell her about the princesses killing the innkeeper's wife. Princess Camilla says she will look into it, but not to worry. Next, Evie and Demetra's family leave to head to registration. Evie starts to feel like she fits in and really enjoys spending ti,e with a human family. She also spends some time talking about her dad with Demetra's dad. When they finally arrive, everyone is so excited, and Princess Hazelbranch says the number of cadets has almost doubled all because of her and how she defeated the which in the previous book. Amidst all the chaos, she hears someone yell, "It's me, i'm cadet number eleven." When they finally arrive, they have to repair the abandoned barracks in order to have enough space for all the new cadets. They are also put on cooking duty. When they meet their new house princess, they find she is always accompanied by a rooster. She walks up to Maggie and tells her that she gave her two foul tastes in her mouth, and anyone who gives her three foul tastes in her mouth by the end of the year will be discharged, causing mass panic for Maggie for the rest of the year. That night, when their house princess is handing out the mail, Evie gets a whole bag full of fan mail. Mixed in with mail through the year are warning from a mysterious person about the Vetrieben, a group of evil princesses who were discharged from the Acadamy. And also that a person inside the Acadamy is more than they seem. Meanwhile, Evie's friend group at the academy is crumbling to pieces. Demetra has two new friends, Maggie is constantly worried she will be discharged, as she sees a fellow cadet dismissed for brushing her teeth too loudly.
I really liked it, but, once again, there were parts that may be scary for younger readers, especially the description of Javotte, which I won't put word for word, but it did include descriptions of deep scars running down her face and onto her neck. Other than that, it was great, and I gave it 4 stars with a recommended reading age of 8 to 12
⚠️ WARNING ⚠️ SPOILERS IN THE FORM OF A SUMMARY LIE BELOW
Summary:
This book starts out with Evie and her dragon sister in the wood, with Evie trying to breathe fire. Evie is tired of her sister constantly making fun of her being human by laughing at her dresses, calling her girl, and much more, so Evie leaves her dragon family a note and goes to visit her friend Princess Demetra of Blackmarsh. On the way, she stops at an inn and, when on her way to bed, hears the old innkeeper talking to (what he called) 3 Princesses. The princesses are asking where they can find someone named Javotte. When the innkeeper tells them he hasn't seen her, they kill his wife. Then they find Evie's mirror with the Pennyroyal coat of arms on it and chase her out of the inn. Evie and her horse Boy head all the way to the Blackmarsh so she can stay there until term starts. When she arrives, Demetra shows her around and tells her that her older sister Princess Camilla will be there the next day, so Evie could tell her about the princesses killing the innkeeper's wife. Princess Camilla says she will look into it, but not to worry. Next, Evie and Demetra's family leave to head to registration. Evie starts to feel like she fits in and really enjoys spending ti,e with a human family. She also spends some time talking about her dad with Demetra's dad. When they finally arrive, everyone is so excited, and Princess Hazelbranch says the number of cadets has almost doubled all because of her and how she defeated the which in the previous book. Amidst all the chaos, she hears someone yell, "It's me, i'm cadet number eleven." When they finally arrive, they have to repair the abandoned barracks in order to have enough space for all the new cadets. They are also put on cooking duty. When they meet their new house princess, they find she is always accompanied by a rooster. She walks up to Maggie and tells her that she gave her two foul tastes in her mouth, and anyone who gives her three foul tastes in her mouth by the end of the year will be discharged, causing mass panic for Maggie for the rest of the year. That night, when their house princess is handing out the mail, Evie gets a whole bag full of fan mail. Mixed in with mail through the year are warning from a mysterious person about the Vetrieben, a group of evil princesses who were discharged from the Acadamy. And also that a person inside the Acadamy is more than they seem. Meanwhile, Evie's friend group at the academy is crumbling to pieces. Demetra has two new friends, Maggie is constantly worried she will be discharged, as she sees a fellow cadet dismissed for brushing her teeth too loudly.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2023
Onward And Upward/Library Loan
I must say, I’ve tremendously taken great pleasure in books 1 & 2 of this series.
Yes, there’s your typical tropes, but doesn’t all Fantasy contain the foundations of similar plots, characters, and settings? It’s what they do with that rudimentary information, which stands out and makes a difference.
Can they spin a tale that comes across as original? Does it excel in some fashion, which puts a twist, or two, to all the other books out there? And finally, is it one that sticks with me long after I read it?
For myself, oh so humbly I say, M. A. Larson’s "Pennyroyal " series, the answers are yes, yes, and yes!
Yes, so far, the twists added to these two have kept me wondering how they’ll ever get out of this one!
A thousand possibilities come to mind while reading, yet I’m always delightfully bewildered in the ingenuity that’s applied by these soon to be princesses as they struggle and clash against vile and corrupt forces set to destroy everything they were raised on, and have come to know and love. Larson takes some of the oldest fairy tales out there, and incorporates them into the timeframe currently lived in by the princesses.
Yes again. At the precise moment you think you have it all figured out, there’s captivating and unanticipated twist/s, which throws the characters and plot into even more increased turmoil and mystery. For the demographics this is written for, their young minds are expanded by teaching them a few lessons. Eyes open; always look for what else could possibly be out there; friends and teamwork are some of the most important aspects of getting through the rough, dark times. Excellent life skills for them to learn to integrate and put into practice in their own lives.
And the third yes is answered by the fact that I was able to pick up this second one, and immediately remembered what had happened in the first as if I had only read it yesterday. When in fact, 8 months, and who knows how many other novels had passed through my hands and spirit, in between that time frame.
Obviously, for reasons of not wanting to include spoilers, my review is rather sketchy on details. Guess you’ll have to read it for yourself, and find out if you agree. 😉
I must say, I’ve tremendously taken great pleasure in books 1 & 2 of this series.
Yes, there’s your typical tropes, but doesn’t all Fantasy contain the foundations of similar plots, characters, and settings? It’s what they do with that rudimentary information, which stands out and makes a difference.
Can they spin a tale that comes across as original? Does it excel in some fashion, which puts a twist, or two, to all the other books out there? And finally, is it one that sticks with me long after I read it?
For myself, oh so humbly I say, M. A. Larson’s "Pennyroyal " series, the answers are yes, yes, and yes!
Yes, so far, the twists added to these two have kept me wondering how they’ll ever get out of this one!
A thousand possibilities come to mind while reading, yet I’m always delightfully bewildered in the ingenuity that’s applied by these soon to be princesses as they struggle and clash against vile and corrupt forces set to destroy everything they were raised on, and have come to know and love. Larson takes some of the oldest fairy tales out there, and incorporates them into the timeframe currently lived in by the princesses.
Yes again. At the precise moment you think you have it all figured out, there’s captivating and unanticipated twist/s, which throws the characters and plot into even more increased turmoil and mystery. For the demographics this is written for, their young minds are expanded by teaching them a few lessons. Eyes open; always look for what else could possibly be out there; friends and teamwork are some of the most important aspects of getting through the rough, dark times. Excellent life skills for them to learn to integrate and put into practice in their own lives.
And the third yes is answered by the fact that I was able to pick up this second one, and immediately remembered what had happened in the first as if I had only read it yesterday. When in fact, 8 months, and who knows how many other novels had passed through my hands and spirit, in between that time frame.
Obviously, for reasons of not wanting to include spoilers, my review is rather sketchy on details. Guess you’ll have to read it for yourself, and find out if you agree. 😉
June 7, 2021
I was excited to read this book, since I liked the first one so much. But unfortunately, I didn't find it quite as interesting as the first one, or as satisfying. First of all, I agree with another reviewer that Evie's treatment of her family was kind of strange. Her characterization was almost contradictory. Like, she's upset that she has a dragon family, but yet she gets angry when a bunch of villagers run screaming from a dragon attack. How does that make sense?
Also, I did not enjoy the friendship issues that occurred during the main four. I feel like those could've easily been left out and the book still would have been good. Also, Basil's more negative attitude in this one bothered me, especially since there was a part of the book where it says "his chipper attitude returned" and that's not what we're seeing at all. Another thing that bugged me was Evie's treatment of her fans. She seems to just ignore them or awkwardly look away when they try to interact with her, and while this is partially understandable, I didn't like the way she would ignore people when they tried to say hi to her, and we never see her actually answer any of her letters.
Also, why in the WORLD would she think that trusting Malora was a good idea? After the big betrayal in the first book, I was disappointed that she made that choice again.
However, I did enjoy the training details. It was cool to see all of the different classes being described, and I still loved the romance between Evie and Remington. I also enjoyed all the magical things, like the parchment hawks and the Fairy Drillsergeant. But I definitely think that I enjoyed the first book of this series more. With that said though, I'm still excited to read the last one.
Also, I did not enjoy the friendship issues that occurred during the main four. I feel like those could've easily been left out and the book still would have been good. Also, Basil's more negative attitude in this one bothered me, especially since there was a part of the book where it says "his chipper attitude returned" and that's not what we're seeing at all. Another thing that bugged me was Evie's treatment of her fans. She seems to just ignore them or awkwardly look away when they try to interact with her, and while this is partially understandable, I didn't like the way she would ignore people when they tried to say hi to her, and we never see her actually answer any of her letters.
Also, why in the WORLD would she think that trusting Malora was a good idea? After the big betrayal in the first book, I was disappointed that she made that choice again.
However, I did enjoy the training details. It was cool to see all of the different classes being described, and I still loved the romance between Evie and Remington. I also enjoyed all the magical things, like the parchment hawks and the Fairy Drillsergeant. But I definitely think that I enjoyed the first book of this series more. With that said though, I'm still excited to read the last one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2018
Reader thoughts: I liked that the book told us a little more about about the world than the first book did. We hear a little from townspeople and such (fan mail!). Still, we don't know anything about the politics or how well the kingdoms get along or if there are other languages or continents, etc.
This book had the same problem that the first one did in that it just isn't believable. If the kingdoms are so desperate for trained princesses and knights, why are some cadets literally getting expelled for "brushing her teeth too loudly" or for giving one teacher a "foul taste" when she sees the cadet? You can't expel people for that if you really need more trained princesses and knights!
I was happy that Evie confided in an adult (sort of confided in 2) for her plan at the climax. Many books like this have the characters run around and not tell the adults anything because they are worried they can't trust the adults. Then, it causes unnecessary problems that are just ridiculous.
However, Evie's major contribution to the climax wasn't well foreshadowed, unless I missed it while listening.
Writer thoughts: Larson made the conflict believable by having the teens consult some adults. This is important because readers lose sympathy for characters when the problems are avoidable.
This book had the same problem that the first one did in that it just isn't believable. If the kingdoms are so desperate for trained princesses and knights, why are some cadets literally getting expelled for "brushing her teeth too loudly" or for giving one teacher a "foul taste" when she sees the cadet? You can't expel people for that if you really need more trained princesses and knights!
I was happy that Evie confided in an adult (sort of confided in 2) for her plan at the climax. Many books like this have the characters run around and not tell the adults anything because they are worried they can't trust the adults. Then, it causes unnecessary problems that are just ridiculous.
However, Evie's major contribution to the climax wasn't well foreshadowed, unless I missed it while listening.
Writer thoughts: Larson made the conflict believable by having the teens consult some adults. This is important because readers lose sympathy for characters when the problems are avoidable.
July 6, 2021
This book was well worth the three month wait! I'm gonna try and do this in order, but wow! I am blown away. I love that we get to start with Evie being teased. Last book she seemed so untouchable, as though nothing would get a reaction from her.
Most of the first book I was just waiting for the academy to realize she's the Warrior Princess. I was grateful that it was put in as a plot point. Evie is just so humble even though she has quite the fan club. Remington finally found a worthy rival.
Princess Copperpot seems like such an entertaining and yet terrifying staff member. She reminds me strongly of Mad-Eye Moody.
And now...the critisism.
I feel like I got the plot halfway through, and that the first half we were just floating toward it. That said, it just made the plot twists more shocking and abrupt.
All in all, fantastic book, can't wait for the third to find me.
Most of the first book I was just waiting for the academy to realize she's the Warrior Princess. I was grateful that it was put in as a plot point. Evie is just so humble even though she has quite the fan club. Remington finally found a worthy rival.
Princess Copperpot seems like such an entertaining and yet terrifying staff member. She reminds me strongly of Mad-Eye Moody.
And now...the critisism.
I feel like I got the plot halfway through, and that the first half we were just floating toward it. That said, it just made the plot twists more shocking and abrupt.
All in all, fantastic book, can't wait for the third to find me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2025
A very exciting sequel to the Pennyroyal Academy Series.
I enjoyed it, and the plot more than the first book, but I had some nitpicks.
There was one plot decision that I personally did not like (about Remington). There were also some confusing areas like when Evie suspected someone at the end of the chapter, and then suspected them again the next chapter as if it was their first revelation even if it was not.
Evie and some of her friends were annoying at some parts of the book, especially the beginning (for Evie) but they are teenagers trying to survive school so I understood their behaviors.
Just like the first book, I would have liked more Evie and Remington moments to help flesh out their relationship. They seem to have had less moments than the first book.
Great sequel and cannot wait to see how the series ends
I enjoyed it, and the plot more than the first book, but I had some nitpicks.
There was one plot decision that I personally did not like (about Remington). There were also some confusing areas like when Evie suspected someone at the end of the chapter, and then suspected them again the next chapter as if it was their first revelation even if it was not.
Evie and some of her friends were annoying at some parts of the book, especially the beginning (for Evie) but they are teenagers trying to survive school so I understood their behaviors.
Just like the first book, I would have liked more Evie and Remington moments to help flesh out their relationship. They seem to have had less moments than the first book.
Great sequel and cannot wait to see how the series ends
November 28, 2017
The second book of Pennyroyal Academy is a good book, but the first one was beyond that, and it was kind of a let-down compared to everything that happened in the first book. It feels like things that were already facts in the first book are things that we have to re-evaluate, such as different barracks and different characters and friend groups turned upside-down. Character arc's like Basil's acceptance of being the first male princess had to be re-iterated, which honestly felt kind of cheap.
It's still a good book overall, don't get me wrong, but if the trilogy is supposed to be as amazing as the first book, then the third needs to be spectacular to make up for a lot of little things in the second book.
It's still a good book overall, don't get me wrong, but if the trilogy is supposed to be as amazing as the first book, then the third needs to be spectacular to make up for a lot of little things in the second book.
June 12, 2025
This was a great second book in this series. I really liked the way Larson dealt with Evie's popularity and the friendship drama and processing. I love how the friendships and family relationships are really the most important part of the plot in a lot of ways. There is a lot of danger and the Academy is NO JOKE. Seriously. Is it any wonder there are some dismissed cadets who are bitter over the way they were let go? I hope that's addressed in some way in the next book. Which I am very much looking forward to reading.
June 28, 2018
Got some strong Harry Potter vibes while reading this. A very similar setup: Evie is now the chosen one (here known as The Warrior Princess), she left her family early to return to school (and never really reconciles with them, which I hope is forthcoming in the third book), she has friendship troubles, teacher troubles, and a quest to save all princess-kind before the end of her school year.
The world-building isn't quite as deep or consistent as HP, but there are a lot of details that I love here. Realistic friendships, fairy tales, strong women, men who aren't afraid to be around women, dragons, and a frog prince.
The romance wasn't as strong in this episode.
The world-building isn't quite as deep or consistent as HP, but there are a lot of details that I love here. Realistic friendships, fairy tales, strong women, men who aren't afraid to be around women, dragons, and a frog prince.
The romance wasn't as strong in this episode.
December 31, 2020
2.75
I wouldn't say I was disappointed in this sequel, as I went in expecting to have outgrown this world. However, I definitely did not enjoy this one as much as I did the first installment when I first read Pennyroyal Academy.
While I think the main reason I didn't care for this book much was the fact that I'd outgrown it, there were some other issues I noticed. I definitely found it to feel as a filler-installment, and I also felt that some of the plot twists were a little too random. That said, I didn't hate my time reading the book and think I probably would've really enjoyed it years ago.
I wouldn't say I was disappointed in this sequel, as I went in expecting to have outgrown this world. However, I definitely did not enjoy this one as much as I did the first installment when I first read Pennyroyal Academy.
While I think the main reason I didn't care for this book much was the fact that I'd outgrown it, there were some other issues I noticed. I definitely found it to feel as a filler-installment, and I also felt that some of the plot twists were a little too random. That said, I didn't hate my time reading the book and think I probably would've really enjoyed it years ago.
March 7, 2021
I'll be honest. The story is good, but undeveloped. The characters are lovable and fun, but undeveloped. The books seemed disjointed. The conflict was disappointing. It was slow moving. Seemed unrealistic. And yet I found myself enjoying it. I was thoroughly disappointed in the end and feel like the story has far more potential but the writing didn't do the story justice, but I read it in just a couple of days. I think the story is worth a read if you have some time. It can be fun for about the preteen age. While I plan to finish the series, I definitely won't be rereading these books by any means.
May 1, 2018
I enjoyed this sequel to Pennyroyal Academy, though not quite as much as the original. Demetra's new friends and Maggie's anxiety about being thrown out didn't really serve much purpose, other than to ramp up the tension a bit. But, the situations were so predictable that it didn't help too much. I also thought the girls were rather slow not to figure out who was really in cahoots with the Vertreiben (I figured it out right off the bat). There was plenty of action, but mostly this was just a typical filler middle novel-- enjoyable, but not anything spectacular.
September 28, 2025
The action picked up quicker than the first book and the twists kept me fully invested in what was going to happen next. As usual good triumphed over evil, but did bring a nice touch to bring it full-circle where Evie's family was involved.
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