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Collegia Mortis #1
The Darkest Art
A necromancy student resurrects the professor who broke her heart to solve his murder—and discovers the conspiracy runs deeper than either of them knew. The Darkest Art is a dark academia gothic romantasy by the NYT bestselling author of Bonetide, for fans of Ninth House, Gothikana and Blood Orange.
At Collegia Mortis, a prestigious university for necromancers in the realm of Verenia, Professor Bastian Vale holds his students to impossible standards and keeps all of them at a distance.
All except Saturna Greythorn.
She's spent weeks catching glimpses of someone else behind that cold exterior, someone who watches her when he thinks she won't notice, finding excuses to keep her after class.
Eventually the tension between them becomes too powerful to ignore.
Flames ignite. Hearts get crushed.
And what starts with fire ends in blood.
Saturna finds Baz's body, brutally murdered.
So she does the one thing that could expose what she really is—she brings her professor back.
Now Baz is bound to her, his life tethered to hers by a bond that could fail at any moment, his memories in pieces, and his killer still walking the halls. Finding the truth means staying close.
Dangerously close.
But the deeper they dig, the more she realizes his murder was only the beginning.
And someone at the Mortis will kill again to keep those secrets buried.
At Collegia Mortis, a prestigious university for necromancers in the realm of Verenia, Professor Bastian Vale holds his students to impossible standards and keeps all of them at a distance.
All except Saturna Greythorn.
She's spent weeks catching glimpses of someone else behind that cold exterior, someone who watches her when he thinks she won't notice, finding excuses to keep her after class.
Eventually the tension between them becomes too powerful to ignore.
Flames ignite. Hearts get crushed.
And what starts with fire ends in blood.
Saturna finds Baz's body, brutally murdered.
So she does the one thing that could expose what she really is—she brings her professor back.
Now Baz is bound to her, his life tethered to hers by a bond that could fail at any moment, his memories in pieces, and his killer still walking the halls. Finding the truth means staying close.
Dangerously close.
But the deeper they dig, the more she realizes his murder was only the beginning.
And someone at the Mortis will kill again to keep those secrets buried.
ebook
First published October 18, 2026
About the author
Karina Halle
133 books20.2k followersKarina Halle is a screenwriter, former music & travel journalist, and the New York Times bestselling author of Grave Matter, Blood Orange, & The Royals Next Door, as well as 80 other romances across all sub-genres, ranging from spicy rom coms to gothic horror and dark fantasy. Needless to say, whatever you're into, she's probably written an HEA for it.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
When she's not traveling, she, her husband, and their pup Perry, split their time between a possibly haunted 120 year-old house in Victoria, BC, and their condo in Los Angeles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
October 24, 2026
us dark academia fantasy girlies have been well-fed this year 🙏🏻
October 25, 2026
As someone who has been struggling to read most of this year, I found this story refreshing and finished it within less than a day and a half.
There were several notable elements that had me entirely sat:
Witches ✔️
Cosmic horror ✔️
A bit of HP wizarding world vibes but darker and more mature ✔️
A slow excruciating angsty build up to the romance ✔️✔️🥵
Forbidden love featuring teacher x student ✔️🥵
Forced proximity ✔️
My favorite character, hands down, was Baz. As the mmc, he offered up a ton of character. He was moody, broody and endlessly fascinating. I loved how his mind tended to wander but that he was sharp as a tac in his observations and approach. He was also the owner of a profoundly filthy mouth which just made moments of intimacy an uncontrollable inferno.
Our fmc, Saturna, was refreshingly mature and had a tendency to be equally observant and careful of her surroundings. I also found her to be relatable due to her familial duties and expectations.
The world building, admittedly, took some time for me to work out. It left me with an overwhelming amount of appreciation for presenting a unique storyline and not your run of the mill, cookie cutter paranormal fantasy.
Dark academia, Gothic vibes were based around a university type setting in which the pupils study death. All the while they are learning to reach out to the dead, there's a thin veil between their world and the other...and that otherness is where things get interesting. It definitely had me thinking of Cthulhu and Eldritch horror. It was definitely creepy and disturbing at times.
There's also a notable amount of mystery throughout the book. Some things are answered whilst others ran off from our sight and will, undoubtedly, having us wait impatiently for the next installment. 😅🫠 I can't wait. LITERALLY.
Spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Darkness level 🌓
There were several notable elements that had me entirely sat:
Witches ✔️
Cosmic horror ✔️
A bit of HP wizarding world vibes but darker and more mature ✔️
A slow excruciating angsty build up to the romance ✔️✔️🥵
Forbidden love featuring teacher x student ✔️🥵
Forced proximity ✔️
My favorite character, hands down, was Baz. As the mmc, he offered up a ton of character. He was moody, broody and endlessly fascinating. I loved how his mind tended to wander but that he was sharp as a tac in his observations and approach. He was also the owner of a profoundly filthy mouth which just made moments of intimacy an uncontrollable inferno.
Our fmc, Saturna, was refreshingly mature and had a tendency to be equally observant and careful of her surroundings. I also found her to be relatable due to her familial duties and expectations.
The world building, admittedly, took some time for me to work out. It left me with an overwhelming amount of appreciation for presenting a unique storyline and not your run of the mill, cookie cutter paranormal fantasy.
Dark academia, Gothic vibes were based around a university type setting in which the pupils study death. All the while they are learning to reach out to the dead, there's a thin veil between their world and the other...and that otherness is where things get interesting. It definitely had me thinking of Cthulhu and Eldritch horror. It was definitely creepy and disturbing at times.
There's also a notable amount of mystery throughout the book. Some things are answered whilst others ran off from our sight and will, undoubtedly, having us wait impatiently for the next installment. 😅🫠 I can't wait. LITERALLY.
Spice level 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Darkness level 🌓
October 22, 2026
I just finished The Darkest Apart by Karina Halle, and it was an absolute five-star BANGER! The perfect read for spooky season, with its dark academia atmosphere, gothic vibes, and just the right amount of yearning. 🖤🕯️
We follow Saturna, a witch who enrolls in a necromancy school with one goal in mind: perfecting her craft so she can bring her sister and father back to life after losing them to a plague. And, of course, what’s dark academia without a brooding professor who catches our FMC’s eye? The yearning, the tension, the will-they-won’t-they… SO perfectly done. And naturally, it leads to a they will. 🥀
But what truly solidified this as a five-star read for me was Saturna herself. We get an older FMC who’s an eldest daughter and a nontraditional student, and I absolutely loved that representation. She’s strong, fierce, and unapologetically herself. She never has to shrink herself or dim her power for an MMC who doesn’t share her same abilities or capabilities. I loved seeing a woman who could stand firmly in her own power without having to make herself smaller for a man. GIVE ME MORE OF THIS!
This was my first Karina Halle book, and it certainly won’t be my last! I’m officially hooked, and I cannot
We follow Saturna, a witch who enrolls in a necromancy school with one goal in mind: perfecting her craft so she can bring her sister and father back to life after losing them to a plague. And, of course, what’s dark academia without a brooding professor who catches our FMC’s eye? The yearning, the tension, the will-they-won’t-they… SO perfectly done. And naturally, it leads to a they will. 🥀
But what truly solidified this as a five-star read for me was Saturna herself. We get an older FMC who’s an eldest daughter and a nontraditional student, and I absolutely loved that representation. She’s strong, fierce, and unapologetically herself. She never has to shrink herself or dim her power for an MMC who doesn’t share her same abilities or capabilities. I loved seeing a woman who could stand firmly in her own power without having to make herself smaller for a man. GIVE ME MORE OF THIS!
This was my first Karina Halle book, and it certainly won’t be my last! I’m officially hooked, and I cannot
October 26, 2026
I don't know why I thought this was a standalone when it CLEARLY WASN'T. 😭
But well, it's Karina Halle, so obviously I loved it!
Actually, as I was reading, I kept thinking this would make such a good duology, so now I'm really curious to see what she has in store for us.
The dark academia atmosphere, the necromancy, the professor-student dynamic… EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT. And Baz? UFFF. WHAT A MAN. 🔥🥵 The spicy scenes were absolutely spectacular!
I really liked Saturna, too, and I especially loved seeing her make friends and finally have people around her instead of being alone. That made me so happy for her. ❤️
I can't wait for the second book to come out so I can pick up right where we left off. I NEED MORE!
Highly, HIGHLY recommend this one!
But well, it's Karina Halle, so obviously I loved it!
Actually, as I was reading, I kept thinking this would make such a good duology, so now I'm really curious to see what she has in store for us.
The dark academia atmosphere, the necromancy, the professor-student dynamic… EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT. And Baz? UFFF. WHAT A MAN. 🔥🥵 The spicy scenes were absolutely spectacular!
I really liked Saturna, too, and I especially loved seeing her make friends and finally have people around her instead of being alone. That made me so happy for her. ❤️
I can't wait for the second book to come out so I can pick up right where we left off. I NEED MORE!
Highly, HIGHLY recommend this one!
October 30, 2026
'Death is the gate of life.'
The Darkest Art was honestly like nothing I've read before. Yes, it has a gothic and dark academia setting that was a character in itself, but it was the power of who Saturna Greythorn was and what she could do that was so intriguing. Saturna is a woman who leaves behind everything she has known, including a mother who is declining in her health, to study Necromancy at College Mortis. She has to hide who she is from others but she has a true gift to 'read' bones and the history they hold. While there, she befriends a few students and draws the attention of one of her professors. Professor Sebastian (Baz) Vale has a sort of broody, stoic personality, so it's hard for many to read or impress him. But he notices Saturna. And she notices him with the hidden, yet lingering looks. She's the last thing he needs to distract him as he is invested in some mysterious things happening at the College. But when he misses class one day, everything changes.
Like I said before, this story was all about the setting and the darkness surrounding it. Halle has a way of creating atmospheric worlds that become a character in themselves. And no matter when and where the setting is, her content is relevant to the present and the characters always seem to speak to me. Right from the start, the school's setting had me on edge. You could feel a sense of dread and uneasiness with each interaction between the characters. While the setting was creepy, the story itself was slow to build up. From the romantic tension to the mystery and secrets unfolding, you constantly are trying to figure out how everything is tied together. But when it hits, it all HITS in a dramatic and action filled fashion that will leave you surprised and wanting more answers.
With that said, I didn't feel the strong chemistry between Baz and Saturna until after a certain event. But since something happened before that event, I imagine I was supposed to feel more sooner. And once Saturna shows her true colors, I felt like not only her and Baz opened up and were vulnerable, but also a couple of the supporting characters were too, allowing for the story and its mysteries to be blown right open.
I know I'm being vague for the most part, but overall, this was a solid book where the setting was just as important to the story as the characters. The first half was a bit slow, but immediately pulled me in with the overall vibes. The second half is what kept my attention and had me fully invested. The horror, the life and death, the mystery, the connection, the disease and the veil. It set the tone for what was to come and what led us to a cliffhanger that was almost a bit painful. I can't wait to see what comes next and the growth Baz and Saturna make after what they experienced. We are in for one heck of a ride.
"Being normal doesn't save you from pain. Like it or not, part of the human experience isn't just joy, but suffering. It's grief. And it's having to live with things you wish you could change."
The Darkest Art was honestly like nothing I've read before. Yes, it has a gothic and dark academia setting that was a character in itself, but it was the power of who Saturna Greythorn was and what she could do that was so intriguing. Saturna is a woman who leaves behind everything she has known, including a mother who is declining in her health, to study Necromancy at College Mortis. She has to hide who she is from others but she has a true gift to 'read' bones and the history they hold. While there, she befriends a few students and draws the attention of one of her professors. Professor Sebastian (Baz) Vale has a sort of broody, stoic personality, so it's hard for many to read or impress him. But he notices Saturna. And she notices him with the hidden, yet lingering looks. She's the last thing he needs to distract him as he is invested in some mysterious things happening at the College. But when he misses class one day, everything changes.
Like I said before, this story was all about the setting and the darkness surrounding it. Halle has a way of creating atmospheric worlds that become a character in themselves. And no matter when and where the setting is, her content is relevant to the present and the characters always seem to speak to me. Right from the start, the school's setting had me on edge. You could feel a sense of dread and uneasiness with each interaction between the characters. While the setting was creepy, the story itself was slow to build up. From the romantic tension to the mystery and secrets unfolding, you constantly are trying to figure out how everything is tied together. But when it hits, it all HITS in a dramatic and action filled fashion that will leave you surprised and wanting more answers.
With that said, I didn't feel the strong chemistry between Baz and Saturna until after a certain event. But since something happened before that event, I imagine I was supposed to feel more sooner. And once Saturna shows her true colors, I felt like not only her and Baz opened up and were vulnerable, but also a couple of the supporting characters were too, allowing for the story and its mysteries to be blown right open.
I know I'm being vague for the most part, but overall, this was a solid book where the setting was just as important to the story as the characters. The first half was a bit slow, but immediately pulled me in with the overall vibes. The second half is what kept my attention and had me fully invested. The horror, the life and death, the mystery, the connection, the disease and the veil. It set the tone for what was to come and what led us to a cliffhanger that was almost a bit painful. I can't wait to see what comes next and the growth Baz and Saturna make after what they experienced. We are in for one heck of a ride.
"Being normal doesn't save you from pain. Like it or not, part of the human experience isn't just joy, but suffering. It's grief. And it's having to live with things you wish you could change."
October 28, 2026
Necromancy, a murdered professor, and a romance that just refuses to stay dead… what could possibly go wrong?
💀 “Death is the gate of life.”
Saturna is powerful, stubborn, fiercely loyal, and hiding a secret. Then there’s Baz, the grumpy professor, and all the banter and yearning as they work together to solve his murder.
The gothic witchy vibes, dark academia setting, necromancy, murder mystery, and all that delicious tension... enough said!
Add in the secrets, magic, and feeling that something much bigger was hiding underneath it all 🤌
That ending, though? I need the next book immediately!
💫 The Darkest Art (Collegia Mortis, 1) by Karina Halle
Gothic Dark Academia Romantasy | Necromancy | Professor/Student | Hurt/Comfort | Hidden Identity | One Bed | Forced Proximity | 375 pp | 4⭐
💫 Favorite Quote:
“I’m not sure I’ll recover from this. You have bewitched me with your body and mind, my sorceress.”
💀 “Death is the gate of life.”
Saturna is powerful, stubborn, fiercely loyal, and hiding a secret. Then there’s Baz, the grumpy professor, and all the banter and yearning as they work together to solve his murder.
The gothic witchy vibes, dark academia setting, necromancy, murder mystery, and all that delicious tension... enough said!
Add in the secrets, magic, and feeling that something much bigger was hiding underneath it all 🤌
That ending, though? I need the next book immediately!
💫 The Darkest Art (Collegia Mortis, 1) by Karina Halle
Gothic Dark Academia Romantasy | Necromancy | Professor/Student | Hurt/Comfort | Hidden Identity | One Bed | Forced Proximity | 375 pp | 4⭐
💫 Favorite Quote:
“I’m not sure I’ll recover from this. You have bewitched me with your body and mind, my sorceress.”
October 25, 2026
✨4 - 4.50✨
When it comes to Gothic Romances and neurodivergent characters Karina Halle just never disappoints, and this was just as amazing❤️🔥👏🏻💀✨
🕸️ I loved the subtle change in Vale's personality after the resurrection. As if all his careful (adhd/autistic) masking came undone, and his quirkiness turned more prominent, at least in front of Saturna✨
🏰 There was only a few times the pacing felt a little jumbled? Don't know how to properly explain it 🤔
🌹 Overall, the story is beautifully put together; very atmospheric and dark.
Despite me being in a bit of a slump, the story held my attention all throughout, and I even had trouble putting it down.
🕷️ As someone who's neurodivergent, the subject always feel like it's safe in this author's hands🙂↕️
I have such a fun time recognizing my own struggles and quirks in her characters 😂🖤
Definitely continuing this series👏🏻😍✨
When it comes to Gothic Romances and neurodivergent characters Karina Halle just never disappoints, and this was just as amazing❤️🔥👏🏻💀✨
🕸️ I loved the subtle change in Vale's personality after the resurrection. As if all his careful (adhd/autistic) masking came undone, and his quirkiness turned more prominent, at least in front of Saturna✨
🏰 There was only a few times the pacing felt a little jumbled? Don't know how to properly explain it 🤔
🌹 Overall, the story is beautifully put together; very atmospheric and dark.
Despite me being in a bit of a slump, the story held my attention all throughout, and I even had trouble putting it down.
🕷️ As someone who's neurodivergent, the subject always feel like it's safe in this author's hands🙂↕️
I have such a fun time recognizing my own struggles and quirks in her characters 😂🖤
Definitely continuing this series👏🏻😍✨
November 5, 2026
Okay, Karina, I see you!
Here I was, happily convinced The Darkest Art was a standalone, watching that little percentage creep higher and higher on my Kindle while wondering how on earth everything was going to wrap up. And then THAT ending?! Excuse me?!
The cliffhanger! have so many theories, and I need answers!
Dark academia, necromancy, deliciously dark atmosphere, and all the eerie, gothic vibes you could possibly want. This is Karina Halle at her finest, and I was completely here for it.
Here I was, happily convinced The Darkest Art was a standalone, watching that little percentage creep higher and higher on my Kindle while wondering how on earth everything was going to wrap up. And then THAT ending?! Excuse me?!
The cliffhanger! have so many theories, and I need answers!
Dark academia, necromancy, deliciously dark atmosphere, and all the eerie, gothic vibes you could possibly want. This is Karina Halle at her finest, and I was completely here for it.
Read
October 31, 2026RTC. Good thing book 2 is due in a few months coz WDYM IT ENDED AT THAT?! Love me an ending full of revelations but **screams in cliffhanger** must go and discussspiral in the buddyread gc 🏃🏻♀️➡️
November 3, 2026
WAIT WHAT, THIS ISN'T A STANDALONE?!?!?
I AM ON MY KNEES FOR BOOK 2
I AM ON MY KNEES FOR BOOK 2
October 26, 2026
The Darkest Art by Karina Halle is a dark academia Necromantasy that blends in mystery, secrets, taboo, and of course necromancy and romance. Saturna Greythorn is off to study necromancy at Collegia Mortis but must do so while hiding that she is a witch. A professor at the school quickly takes an interest in Saturna; not only did she get accepted as an older student without first testing her ability, she’s oddly proficient in class and unavoidably beautiful. Professor Vale is looking into mysterious happenings in the college and Saturna seems to be unknowingly mixed into the very thing he’s researching. What comes next is an enthralling story that’s filled to the brim with magic and intrigue.
The complexity of Saturna and her whole situation makes for a read that has you supporting her throughout, even when she’s being stubborn. Vale is dark and brooding and absolutely shrouded in his past. He struggles with many internal battles including the infatuation he has with his new student but what really made him relatable is his inability to focus. He’s working on one thing only to get distracted with something else and may work his way back to the original.
I was worried for a minute about the new world being confusing but, as usual, Halle blends in new information in a way that has you feeling like you’ve lived in it beautifully. I never should have doubted. The magic system is dark and beautifully written. You can feel it in the air when you’re reading.
It’s a masterpiece in romance and horror that weaves you into its world and has you wanting (NEEDING) the next book immediately! I can’t wait to see where this story goes but I guarantee I’ll be counting the days to find out in Veilnight.
The complexity of Saturna and her whole situation makes for a read that has you supporting her throughout, even when she’s being stubborn. Vale is dark and brooding and absolutely shrouded in his past. He struggles with many internal battles including the infatuation he has with his new student but what really made him relatable is his inability to focus. He’s working on one thing only to get distracted with something else and may work his way back to the original.
I was worried for a minute about the new world being confusing but, as usual, Halle blends in new information in a way that has you feeling like you’ve lived in it beautifully. I never should have doubted. The magic system is dark and beautifully written. You can feel it in the air when you’re reading.
It’s a masterpiece in romance and horror that weaves you into its world and has you wanting (NEEDING) the next book immediately! I can’t wait to see where this story goes but I guarantee I’ll be counting the days to find out in Veilnight.
October 27, 2026
Karina Halle has completely outdone herself with this book. It is a haunting, seductive, and utterly consuming masterpiece that held me captive from the very first page to the spectacular ending (mind the cliff!).
This is the perfect gothic romance read (this author is the queen of the genre truly).
The atmosphere is thick with tension, mystery, and an undeniable eerie allure. Her writing is so vivid and incredibly immersive, I felt as though I was there amongst the headstones with the blood red sky looming above me.
Now to our FMC & MMC.... the chemistry here is EXPLOSIVE. So incredibly tangible, I could feel that insane tension throughout every interaction the entire book. It is a slow, delicious burn that builds into a scorching, passionate fire. The emotional depth and complexity to Saturna & Baz made it impossible not to root for them, even as they navigated the mysterious and ominous dark corners of their worlds. The psychological intrigue and unexpected twists kept me constantly guessing.
If you love your romance dark, DEEPLY atmospheric, emotionally raw, and intensely passionate.... this book is an absolute must-read. I will never stop screaming to everyone I know how immensely talented Karina Halle is, there is some special magic she puts into every book. I CANNOT recommend it highly enough. I may go crazy waiting for book 2 but so worth the wait.
This is the perfect gothic romance read (this author is the queen of the genre truly).
The atmosphere is thick with tension, mystery, and an undeniable eerie allure. Her writing is so vivid and incredibly immersive, I felt as though I was there amongst the headstones with the blood red sky looming above me.
Now to our FMC & MMC.... the chemistry here is EXPLOSIVE. So incredibly tangible, I could feel that insane tension throughout every interaction the entire book. It is a slow, delicious burn that builds into a scorching, passionate fire. The emotional depth and complexity to Saturna & Baz made it impossible not to root for them, even as they navigated the mysterious and ominous dark corners of their worlds. The psychological intrigue and unexpected twists kept me constantly guessing.
If you love your romance dark, DEEPLY atmospheric, emotionally raw, and intensely passionate.... this book is an absolute must-read. I will never stop screaming to everyone I know how immensely talented Karina Halle is, there is some special magic she puts into every book. I CANNOT recommend it highly enough. I may go crazy waiting for book 2 but so worth the wait.
October 29, 2026
And of course another absolute banger of a book by the brilliant Karina Halle!
The Darkest Art is THE book to read, especially for spooky season. This dark academia gothic romantasy will have you begging for the next book in the series.
To start off, I want to take a moment and say that the playlist Karina provided absolutely SLAPS! Karina you have fine taste in music 😘
This book had me immediately drawn in and captivated from the start. I was so curious about Saturna, our FMC journey to attending necromancy school and how that would fair with her being the main caretaker of her mother. Saturna character I absolutely loved; and even though a bit naive she definitely grew on me.
Baz, our MMC was the standout to me. Baz is a professor at Collegia Mortis and is so mysterious. I applaud you Karina for writing him with representation of ADHD; it was so on point. Also bonus points because I LOVE the name Baz 🥵
This book did contain some spicy moments but I was LIVING for the plot! That ending had me SCREAMING!!!
If you are into professor x student, forced proximity, hidden identity, ADHD representation amongst other incredible tropes you NEED to read this asap!
I need the next book in this series like I need air 😮💨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
The Darkest Art is THE book to read, especially for spooky season. This dark academia gothic romantasy will have you begging for the next book in the series.
To start off, I want to take a moment and say that the playlist Karina provided absolutely SLAPS! Karina you have fine taste in music 😘
This book had me immediately drawn in and captivated from the start. I was so curious about Saturna, our FMC journey to attending necromancy school and how that would fair with her being the main caretaker of her mother. Saturna character I absolutely loved; and even though a bit naive she definitely grew on me.
Baz, our MMC was the standout to me. Baz is a professor at Collegia Mortis and is so mysterious. I applaud you Karina for writing him with representation of ADHD; it was so on point. Also bonus points because I LOVE the name Baz 🥵
This book did contain some spicy moments but I was LIVING for the plot! That ending had me SCREAMING!!!
If you are into professor x student, forced proximity, hidden identity, ADHD representation amongst other incredible tropes you NEED to read this asap!
I need the next book in this series like I need air 😮💨
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
October 26, 2026
obsessed
In true Karina Halle fashion I was hooked on the first page. Dark gothic Romance is one of my absolute favorite genres. The book covers all of those boxes. Professor/student, same bed, witches, gothic college, secrets unfolding, necromancy and all the spooky vibes. There hasn’t been a book of Karina’s that I didn’t immediately find myself immersed in. She writes yearning so well. This book left off on a cliffhanger and I’m currently dying over here to know how it ends! Saturna is accepted into a college for Necromancy, she isn’t asked to preform any of the usual tests to prove her power to speak to the dead. Other students question this, but she is befriended into a close group of friends. Yet Saturna has a secret she’s holding onto with her life. She’s a witch and in this time witches are still be eradicated. She must keep this hidden from the other students and faculty. A plague hit the area 5 years prior where she lost her father and sister. She’s hoping to learn more and be able to reach into the veil and speak with her family. She meets professor Vale. He’s brooding and stoic and hard to read. But he is immediately drawn to Saturna, as she is to him. The lingering looks and little interactions manifest into something bigger. Secrets come to life, murder, the hollows come out and Saturna is doing everything she can to put the pieces together along with Baz(vale). I cannot wait for thr next book.
In true Karina Halle fashion I was hooked on the first page. Dark gothic Romance is one of my absolute favorite genres. The book covers all of those boxes. Professor/student, same bed, witches, gothic college, secrets unfolding, necromancy and all the spooky vibes. There hasn’t been a book of Karina’s that I didn’t immediately find myself immersed in. She writes yearning so well. This book left off on a cliffhanger and I’m currently dying over here to know how it ends! Saturna is accepted into a college for Necromancy, she isn’t asked to preform any of the usual tests to prove her power to speak to the dead. Other students question this, but she is befriended into a close group of friends. Yet Saturna has a secret she’s holding onto with her life. She’s a witch and in this time witches are still be eradicated. She must keep this hidden from the other students and faculty. A plague hit the area 5 years prior where she lost her father and sister. She’s hoping to learn more and be able to reach into the veil and speak with her family. She meets professor Vale. He’s brooding and stoic and hard to read. But he is immediately drawn to Saturna, as she is to him. The lingering looks and little interactions manifest into something bigger. Secrets come to life, murder, the hollows come out and Saturna is doing everything she can to put the pieces together along with Baz(vale). I cannot wait for thr next book.
November 2, 2026
Karina Halle strikes again! Oh this book. THIS BOOK. It grabbed me immediately and didn’t let me go from start to finish. This book was absolutely perfect for October. It’s unique, intriguing, mysterious and pulled you in with the dark academia and the brooding teacher. Lots of tension and yearning that I’ve come to love from this author’s books. There’s the forbidden because he’s a teacher. It makes everything exciting and mysterious. This author is the master of tension. I loved that Saturna wasn’t a super young character. She’d lived some life taking care of her mother. She’s not new to necromancy but needs school to polish the skills. She is definitely one of my favorite Karina Halle heroines ever. I loved the ‘found family’ that she gets. Lots of great twists and turns.
This book had me in a chokehold the whole time. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I was so excited to find out that it was actually a series. This author is famous for her standalones. Another phenomenal read. Bring on book 2! I received an advanced reading copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
This book had me in a chokehold the whole time. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I was so excited to find out that it was actually a series. This author is famous for her standalones. Another phenomenal read. Bring on book 2! I received an advanced reading copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
October 26, 2026
The Darkest Art: A Dark Academia Gothic Romantasy
by Karina Halle
5⭐️
3🌶️
Love me a really good eerie & atmospheric ( the 👀red sky)
Dark Academia /Paranormal book and this one checked all the boxes for me!
There’s Necromancy, witchy vibes, a m¥rder mystery , secrets and some undeniable chemistry and tension between the two main characters!
And a really good “Graveyard Scene “ 🥵🫠🌶️🔥
The pace is slow but it’s perfectly executed because the story really sucks you in from the beginning! Loved it!!
FMC Saturna is hiding a secret. She goes to attend a school for the gifts she holds. But guilt is holding her back because of her fears of leaving her sick mother.
I really loved and can relate to her character and her struggles with being a caretaker to her ailing mother.
MMC Baz is a professor at said school and has an instant infatuation with Saturna .
Something tragic happens to Baz and he becomes tethered to Saturna.
They soon work together to find out the truth of the mysterious happening occurring in their world.
The cliffhanger is brutal and I really can’t wait to see what happens next!
Overall I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a well written dark academia / fantasy story that will captivate you from the very beginning!
by Karina Halle
5⭐️
3🌶️
Love me a really good eerie & atmospheric ( the 👀red sky)
Dark Academia /Paranormal book and this one checked all the boxes for me!
There’s Necromancy, witchy vibes, a m¥rder mystery , secrets and some undeniable chemistry and tension between the two main characters!
And a really good “Graveyard Scene “ 🥵🫠🌶️🔥
The pace is slow but it’s perfectly executed because the story really sucks you in from the beginning! Loved it!!
FMC Saturna is hiding a secret. She goes to attend a school for the gifts she holds. But guilt is holding her back because of her fears of leaving her sick mother.
I really loved and can relate to her character and her struggles with being a caretaker to her ailing mother.
MMC Baz is a professor at said school and has an instant infatuation with Saturna .
Something tragic happens to Baz and he becomes tethered to Saturna.
They soon work together to find out the truth of the mysterious happening occurring in their world.
The cliffhanger is brutal and I really can’t wait to see what happens next!
Overall I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a well written dark academia / fantasy story that will captivate you from the very beginning!
October 27, 2026
There are not enough words for how much I loved this story. Karina is one of my favorite authors and I will read her on every genre she writes, but when it comes to gothic, to horror, she absolutely reigns supreme.
Saturna is a fantastic FMC. She’s an actual adult with a fully formed frontal lobe and responsibilities. She’s powerful and strong and curious and a touch impetuous and completely owns her sexuality. I want to be her when I grow up.
Baz is just as wonderful of an MMC, intelligent and driven and battling demons alongside his attraction to her.
This was a fast paced and wild ride for me. And the hints that Karina lays of how much broader and intricate this world will become in the next installment. What really hit hard for me is the discussion of the exhaustion, sacrifice, and love inherent in caregiving. As someone who has experienced this in my personal life, every note rang true.
Karina’s writing shines in this story. It’s like a tide, woven and elegant and leads you gently into the next passage.
Saturna is a fantastic FMC. She’s an actual adult with a fully formed frontal lobe and responsibilities. She’s powerful and strong and curious and a touch impetuous and completely owns her sexuality. I want to be her when I grow up.
Baz is just as wonderful of an MMC, intelligent and driven and battling demons alongside his attraction to her.
This was a fast paced and wild ride for me. And the hints that Karina lays of how much broader and intricate this world will become in the next installment. What really hit hard for me is the discussion of the exhaustion, sacrifice, and love inherent in caregiving. As someone who has experienced this in my personal life, every note rang true.
Karina’s writing shines in this story. It’s like a tide, woven and elegant and leads you gently into the next passage.
October 24, 2026
I think this series is going to be a trust the process moment…?
Karina’s gothic and fantasy books are some of my absolute favourites, and when she gets going with the atmosphere, the woman is a god with a pen. There were moments in this where the writing was so rich and layered I could see, smell and feel the entire scene around me. BUT there were moments where the pacing felt a little all over the place. Some scenes were gorgeously fleshed out, while others felt like they were rushed through before I had a chance to properly sink my teeth into them and orientate myself to where the hell we were, and what the fuck we were doing.
Character wise, Baz was a standout for me. He’s a beautifully complex, broken character with so much going on beneath the surface. I wanted to peel back every single layer and see what made him tick. I feel like we got more insight into him than any other character. There’s still a LOT about the other characters that haven’t been revealed or explained which left me wondering wtf a lot, even at the end. But I think that’s by design…?
That graveyard scene: blushing while clutching my pearls 🤭🫣🫠
I’m invested, I have SO MANY questions. But let’s be honest. It’s Karina, I will follow her into any gothic, atmospheric, fantasy-shaped fever dream she wants to throw me into 🖤
Karina’s gothic and fantasy books are some of my absolute favourites, and when she gets going with the atmosphere, the woman is a god with a pen. There were moments in this where the writing was so rich and layered I could see, smell and feel the entire scene around me. BUT there were moments where the pacing felt a little all over the place. Some scenes were gorgeously fleshed out, while others felt like they were rushed through before I had a chance to properly sink my teeth into them and orientate myself to where the hell we were, and what the fuck we were doing.
Character wise, Baz was a standout for me. He’s a beautifully complex, broken character with so much going on beneath the surface. I wanted to peel back every single layer and see what made him tick. I feel like we got more insight into him than any other character. There’s still a LOT about the other characters that haven’t been revealed or explained which left me wondering wtf a lot, even at the end. But I think that’s by design…?
That graveyard scene: blushing while clutching my pearls 🤭🫣🫠
I’m invested, I have SO MANY questions. But let’s be honest. It’s Karina, I will follow her into any gothic, atmospheric, fantasy-shaped fever dream she wants to throw me into 🖤
October 21, 2026
I went in knowing there was necromancy, and the love interest dies. (Which the author advised was NOT a spoiler) Beyond that, I had no idea what to expect. This kept me waiting to see what was next through every single page. Saturna exuded all the traits of the eldest daughter syndrome, paired with the caregiver aspect. The guilt of looking for life outside of the sadness that comes with caregiving. That is often not wrote about and it spoke to me deeply, especially having been a caregiver myself with immense guilt for having to do something for myself. Baz’s ADHD relatability was so appreciated in this book. His organized chaos was openly welcomed by Saturna and I loved that so much. This does end in a cliffhanger, but some questions are answered by the end. All that said this was easily a 5 star read (more if I could give it) and I can’t wait for the next two books in this series.
November 2, 2026
I was SO excited for this book. I had been craving a good, spicy professor-student gothic college romance, so my expectations were pretty high.
I genuinely enjoyed the first 30–40% and loved the overall vibe, but unfortunately, the story started losing me somewhere along the way. The middle felt a little boring, and the direction the plot took wasn't quite what I had expected.
I liked the characters, and the romance was decent, but I never got back that initial excitement. The spice was also surprisingly different from what I'm used to from Karina Halle. It wasn't bad, just not quite what I was expecting from her.
Overall, I'm still intrigued enough to pick up the next book in the series.
I genuinely enjoyed the first 30–40% and loved the overall vibe, but unfortunately, the story started losing me somewhere along the way. The middle felt a little boring, and the direction the plot took wasn't quite what I had expected.
I liked the characters, and the romance was decent, but I never got back that initial excitement. The spice was also surprisingly different from what I'm used to from Karina Halle. It wasn't bad, just not quite what I was expecting from her.
Overall, I'm still intrigued enough to pick up the next book in the series.
October 31, 2026
Dark, macabre, haunting, mysterious! The perfect combo for a spooky season read. The setting is rich and unique. I immediately feel for Saturna and the hand life has seemingly dealt her and the guilt she feels for trying to move forward. She carries burdens, grief, and secrets with grace. The life she find waiting for her at Collegia Mortis isn’t what she expected. She definitely never expected Baz and he certainly didn’t expect her to walk into his classroom. Baz carries his own burdens and I think they recognize that in each other and the pull together they find themselves trapped in. The ending gets a couple of little twists in there and the cliffhanger has me anxious for the next book!!
October 24, 2026
Is this school just okay with a professor and student having a relationship? Saturna and Baz made no effort to hide their feelings for one another and it is rather confusing. Literally everyone saw them making eyes at one another and did nothing about it.
I went into this thinking it was a standalone and am so glad that it is not because there are still so many loose ends, theories, and questions I have. All of the characters have something suspicious about them and I truly don’t know who to trust. I’m on the edge of my seat awaiting the next book.
I went into this thinking it was a standalone and am so glad that it is not because there are still so many loose ends, theories, and questions I have. All of the characters have something suspicious about them and I truly don’t know who to trust. I’m on the edge of my seat awaiting the next book.
November 1, 2026
Love it but to be continued...
This book is so fun and reminds me of Hogwarts or even the Witch Academy in Wicked. I love this tale and I adore these two characters. But I am dying now with the abrupt "to be continued"!!! I know it won't be out in a week like a Netflix series....How long will I have to wait! Karina Halle is my favorite author and know she is a fast writer which has always befuddled me but Hurry!!!! But keep up the good work and keep doing what you are meant to do.
This book is so fun and reminds me of Hogwarts or even the Witch Academy in Wicked. I love this tale and I adore these two characters. But I am dying now with the abrupt "to be continued"!!! I know it won't be out in a week like a Netflix series....How long will I have to wait! Karina Halle is my favorite author and know she is a fast writer which has always befuddled me but Hurry!!!! But keep up the good work and keep doing what you are meant to do.
November 2, 2026
captivating
I truly could not put this book down! From the very first page, everything from the scenic dark academic atmosphere to the beautifully descriptive gown and food, and all the gothic undertones I was immersed in a setting that I love so much!! what truly stole the show for me was the romance!!! Duhhh… the build ups were so perfect I reread over and over. Kinda like how watching pride and prejudice felt. The ending made me GASP!!!
I truly could not put this book down! From the very first page, everything from the scenic dark academic atmosphere to the beautifully descriptive gown and food, and all the gothic undertones I was immersed in a setting that I love so much!! what truly stole the show for me was the romance!!! Duhhh… the build ups were so perfect I reread over and over. Kinda like how watching pride and prejudice felt. The ending made me GASP!!!
October 25, 2026
This was so good. I was instantly hooked by chapter two. She has such a way of writing dark and gothic that’s got you on the edge of your moody little seat.
Also I didn’t know this wasn’t a standalone and I am absolutely unwell. There are so many pieces missing that could go anyway. I’m distraught.
Also I didn’t know this wasn’t a standalone and I am absolutely unwell. There are so many pieces missing that could go anyway. I’m distraught.
November 4, 2026
THAT ENDING?! ABSOLUTELY DIABOLICAL 🫣
I need the next book like I need air. I went into this thinking it was a standalone and well the jokes on me because it is in fact NOT a standalone 🤣.
I loved this book, it has dark, spooky vibes, found family, forbidden love, age gap (10 years), mystery, what's not to love at the end of the day? 🖤
I need the next book like I need air. I went into this thinking it was a standalone and well the jokes on me because it is in fact NOT a standalone 🤣.
I loved this book, it has dark, spooky vibes, found family, forbidden love, age gap (10 years), mystery, what's not to love at the end of the day? 🖤
October 29, 2026
Omg I am completely obsessed. From the moment I picked up this book I knew I was going to want to read this non stop. I love Baz and Saturna. When they are together I just can’t get enough. This book is unique and absolutely unputdownable. The ending, omg I need the next book ASAP. Absolutely an amazing read that everyone must read.
October 25, 2026
dang what a cliffhanger
October 27, 2026
Oh my god?
This just jumped to my number 1 favorite book of hers. SO GOOD. It has everything I need and it does it all so well.
The vibes are immaculate and the story kept me on my toes the entire time. Plus that cliffhanger is killing me 😭 the only thing I didn’t like was the MMCs name 😅 it kept pulling me out of it but other than that this book was perfection.
This just jumped to my number 1 favorite book of hers. SO GOOD. It has everything I need and it does it all so well.
The vibes are immaculate and the story kept me on my toes the entire time. Plus that cliffhanger is killing me 😭 the only thing I didn’t like was the MMCs name 😅 it kept pulling me out of it but other than that this book was perfection.
October 28, 2026
Gagged I can’t wait for book 2!
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