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Royal Academy Rebels #1
Misfits
A brand new series from Jen Calonita, set in the world of Fairy Tale Reform School! Not everyone born royal is meant to rule…
In the magical fairytale kingdom of Enchantasia, becoming a legendary Prince or Princess doesn't happen overnight. Enter Royal Academy, the training ground for the fairytale leaders of tomorrow!
But reluctant-future-princess and new-student Devin has some reservations about RA, especially when it comes to the Headmistress. Olivina seems obsessed with preparing students for possible villain attacks. But when Devin asks when they're going to learn how to actually rule a kingdom, Olivina becomes enraged. Something isn't right with this lady, and what Devin discovers could change the fairytale world forever…
In the magical fairytale kingdom of Enchantasia, becoming a legendary Prince or Princess doesn't happen overnight. Enter Royal Academy, the training ground for the fairytale leaders of tomorrow!
But reluctant-future-princess and new-student Devin has some reservations about RA, especially when it comes to the Headmistress. Olivina seems obsessed with preparing students for possible villain attacks. But when Devin asks when they're going to learn how to actually rule a kingdom, Olivina becomes enraged. Something isn't right with this lady, and what Devin discovers could change the fairytale world forever…
256 pages, Hardcover
First published October 2, 2018
607 people are currently reading
3336 people want to read
About the author
Jen Calonita
69 books3,693 followersHi Goodreads!
I'm Jen Calonita, a MG and YA author who loves what I do because it lets me connect with all of you (and no, I wasn't intending for that to rhyme!).
I've been writing ever since I can remember, but it was fourth grade when I put my "three wishes" for a genie down on paper. They were:
#1. Buy all the Cabbage Patch Kids in the world and give them away for free (because apparently that was how I rolled).
#2. I wanted a mansion, limo, lake house, pool and speed boat (still sounds quite nice).
#3. I wanted to be an author for young readers, which I am!
I love writing novels for teens (and for savvy grown ups who know that YA rocks at any age). My first series was "Secrets of My Hollywood Life" and it followed a teen star named Kaitlin Burke who struggled with the fame game. I have also written the stand-alone novels Sleepaway Girls, it's companion book, Summer State of Mind and the Belles series.
I've been writing middle grade too and am having so much fun with my series Fairy Tale Reform School! The fourth book in this series about a school run by former villains is called Tricked and will be out March 2018. Ever wonder what it would be like if your parents got a job with someone like Taylpr Swift? My other middle grade series, VIP, follows super fan Mackenzie Lowell as she tours with her favorite band, Perfect Storm.
I promise to give book updates here, and on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or my website. I hope I hear from you!
xo
Jen
I'm Jen Calonita, a MG and YA author who loves what I do because it lets me connect with all of you (and no, I wasn't intending for that to rhyme!).
I've been writing ever since I can remember, but it was fourth grade when I put my "three wishes" for a genie down on paper. They were:
#1. Buy all the Cabbage Patch Kids in the world and give them away for free (because apparently that was how I rolled).
#2. I wanted a mansion, limo, lake house, pool and speed boat (still sounds quite nice).
#3. I wanted to be an author for young readers, which I am!
I love writing novels for teens (and for savvy grown ups who know that YA rocks at any age). My first series was "Secrets of My Hollywood Life" and it followed a teen star named Kaitlin Burke who struggled with the fame game. I have also written the stand-alone novels Sleepaway Girls, it's companion book, Summer State of Mind and the Belles series.
I've been writing middle grade too and am having so much fun with my series Fairy Tale Reform School! The fourth book in this series about a school run by former villains is called Tricked and will be out March 2018. Ever wonder what it would be like if your parents got a job with someone like Taylpr Swift? My other middle grade series, VIP, follows super fan Mackenzie Lowell as she tours with her favorite band, Perfect Storm.
I promise to give book updates here, and on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or my website. I hope I hear from you!
xo
Jen
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September 25, 20182 very cranky and disappointed stars for Misfits, in which we follow Devin, a princess who would much rather spend her time taking care of sick and injured animals than doing the usual princess-y things. Devin's special skill of being able to communicate with animals makes her a natural at tending to their healthcare needs, and she spends much of her time sneaking away from the castle to partake in "Animal Care".
Unfortunately, the kingdom requires that all princes and princesses attend the renowned Royal Academy to learn how to be good royal leaders and do royal stuff like going to balls, being saved by princes/saving princesses, and the ultimate goal of "catching" the right prince or princess to marry. Somehow, Devin, clever as she is, has overlooked this mandatory attendance thing and thought that she would be able to avoid going to RA. Of course, she is mistaken and gets her butt shipped off to the Academy before she knows what's what.
As I read this book, I was hovering between giving it 3 and 4 stars most of the time. This is a light and fluffy read with some amusing little snippets and clever nods to beloved fairy tales here and there. There are definitely an awful lot of over-used YA tropes to be found (quirky MC with a special skill who does not follow the rules especially when the rules involve not using her special skill, dealing with cliques, mysterious and potentially evil happenings that get explained away too easily, friends who stop being friends when quirky MC keeps breaking rules and gets friends in trouble), but for the most part this is a fun read and I figure that the middle grade kids this book seems to target will not be as weary as I am with these plotlines.
But then I got to the end. Or, rather, the complete lack of an ending. There is no happily ever after here because there is no ending. The book just stops in the middle of the story with a clue about where things will go next. Now, to be clear, I don't mind a series with a story arc that continues from book to book to book. I don't even mind if a story gets wrapped up and then the characters find themselves suddenly thrust into a new adventure at the very end of a book that is obviously a lead-in to the next in series.
What I do mind, however, is a book that indicates you are heading into the climax of the story only to discover that the climax is not going to happen and you'll have to wait for the next book. Except you know the next book is just going to drag things out, too, and who knows how many books you're going to end up waiting on before you actually get a real climax and a proper ending.
It's like helping your mom to bake cookies, then being told you have to help clean up if you want a cookie, then once everything is clean you still have to wait until the cookies finish cooling before you can have one, but by the time they're cool, suddenly it's too close to dinner and you can't have one until after dinner, except then dinner is liver and boiled Brussels sprouts and, well, that's just not happening, so it turns out there will be no cookies for you. And now I remember why I don't like oatmeal-raisin cookies (besides the obvious that raisins are vastly inferior to chocolate chips).
Thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Jabberwocky for providing me with a DRC of this book.
Unfortunately, the kingdom requires that all princes and princesses attend the renowned Royal Academy to learn how to be good royal leaders and do royal stuff like going to balls, being saved by princes/saving princesses, and the ultimate goal of "catching" the right prince or princess to marry. Somehow, Devin, clever as she is, has overlooked this mandatory attendance thing and thought that she would be able to avoid going to RA. Of course, she is mistaken and gets her butt shipped off to the Academy before she knows what's what.
As I read this book, I was hovering between giving it 3 and 4 stars most of the time. This is a light and fluffy read with some amusing little snippets and clever nods to beloved fairy tales here and there. There are definitely an awful lot of over-used YA tropes to be found (quirky MC with a special skill who does not follow the rules especially when the rules involve not using her special skill, dealing with cliques, mysterious and potentially evil happenings that get explained away too easily, friends who stop being friends when quirky MC keeps breaking rules and gets friends in trouble), but for the most part this is a fun read and I figure that the middle grade kids this book seems to target will not be as weary as I am with these plotlines.
But then I got to the end. Or, rather, the complete lack of an ending. There is no happily ever after here because there is no ending. The book just stops in the middle of the story with a clue about where things will go next. Now, to be clear, I don't mind a series with a story arc that continues from book to book to book. I don't even mind if a story gets wrapped up and then the characters find themselves suddenly thrust into a new adventure at the very end of a book that is obviously a lead-in to the next in series.
What I do mind, however, is a book that indicates you are heading into the climax of the story only to discover that the climax is not going to happen and you'll have to wait for the next book. Except you know the next book is just going to drag things out, too, and who knows how many books you're going to end up waiting on before you actually get a real climax and a proper ending.
It's like helping your mom to bake cookies, then being told you have to help clean up if you want a cookie, then once everything is clean you still have to wait until the cookies finish cooling before you can have one, but by the time they're cool, suddenly it's too close to dinner and you can't have one until after dinner, except then dinner is liver and boiled Brussels sprouts and, well, that's just not happening, so it turns out there will be no cookies for you. And now I remember why I don't like oatmeal-raisin cookies (besides the obvious that raisins are vastly inferior to chocolate chips).
Thank you to NetGalley and SOURCEBOOKS Jabberwocky for providing me with a DRC of this book.
June 15, 2020
2.5 stars
I was quite surprised by this! Cute, fun, overall easy read. I wish it had at least a smidge of diversity... but more on that in the review. Review to come!
I was quite surprised by this! Cute, fun, overall easy read. I wish it had at least a smidge of diversity... but more on that in the review. Review to come!
January 18, 2019
WARNING: THIS BOOK IS A CLIFFHANGER.
Enchantasia, the magical land where ALL of the fairytale heroes, villains and magical creatures live.
Princess Devin, who can talk to and understand most animals wants to be a special animal caregiver. However, her parents insist that she attend Royal Academy where royalty offspring are taught "life skills" to be princesses and princes (boys get to fight dragons but girls have to just sit there and wait).
However, something is not right at Royal Academy: it seems something or someone is trying to get rid of Devin. Who or what could it be? What's really going on here?
The cast of characters in the book is great too: Lady Olivia the Fairy Godmother headmistress, the Magic Mirror who seems to be watching all of the students at the same time, Heath, the younger brother of Snow White (is he going to be a stereotypical prince or really be a hero), Logan, a prince with an allergy and phobia of practically anything (from dragon slaying to girls) except cooking, Raina, Snow White's younger sister and Devin's roommate who is pressuring herself to be a good princess (if not better than her sister), AND Sasha, Sleeping Beauty's younger sister, who is definitely not a damsel but instead a journalist. There's other colorful characters and creatures as well.
The great thing about the book is that it does make readers (or in my case, listeners) question, HEY who says there have to be gender identity roles or that your social class (aka in this case, where you are in line for the throne of Enchantsia, based on what "kingdom" or "family" you're from, or whether you're a servant or a commoner or a mythical creature), or that a princess can't take care of herself. It really does a great job of exploring these themes.
Kristen Condon who narrates the audiobook does a good job of performing the book: her voice does perfectly convey that of a teenage girl, the overprotective and often snooty adults, the magical pixies and elves, and her fellow male and female classmates well. One of my favorites, if you listen to it, is when she portrays Ella, yes, Cinderella. (She actually sounds just like her from the Disney universe).
The audiobook version was great.
This book is a great suggestion for fans of the Disney Descendants/Isle of the Lost, School for Good and Evil, or Land of Stories books.
Enchantasia, the magical land where ALL of the fairytale heroes, villains and magical creatures live.
Princess Devin, who can talk to and understand most animals wants to be a special animal caregiver. However, her parents insist that she attend Royal Academy where royalty offspring are taught "life skills" to be princesses and princes (boys get to fight dragons but girls have to just sit there and wait).
However, something is not right at Royal Academy: it seems something or someone is trying to get rid of Devin. Who or what could it be? What's really going on here?
The cast of characters in the book is great too: Lady Olivia the Fairy Godmother headmistress, the Magic Mirror who seems to be watching all of the students at the same time, Heath, the younger brother of Snow White (is he going to be a stereotypical prince or really be a hero), Logan, a prince with an allergy and phobia of practically anything (from dragon slaying to girls) except cooking, Raina, Snow White's younger sister and Devin's roommate who is pressuring herself to be a good princess (if not better than her sister), AND Sasha, Sleeping Beauty's younger sister, who is definitely not a damsel but instead a journalist. There's other colorful characters and creatures as well.
The great thing about the book is that it does make readers (or in my case, listeners) question, HEY who says there have to be gender identity roles or that your social class (aka in this case, where you are in line for the throne of Enchantsia, based on what "kingdom" or "family" you're from, or whether you're a servant or a commoner or a mythical creature), or that a princess can't take care of herself. It really does a great job of exploring these themes.
Kristen Condon who narrates the audiobook does a good job of performing the book: her voice does perfectly convey that of a teenage girl, the overprotective and often snooty adults, the magical pixies and elves, and her fellow male and female classmates well. One of my favorites, if you listen to it, is when she portrays Ella, yes, Cinderella. (She actually sounds just like her from the Disney universe).
The audiobook version was great.
This book is a great suggestion for fans of the Disney Descendants/Isle of the Lost, School for Good and Evil, or Land of Stories books.
December 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this book and the next book but I didn't enjoy the third in the series at all. I wrote reviews for both of the next two books.
Love the characters. Not quite sure how I feel about the heavy amount of feminism in here but really love Sasha because she runs a blog and has that girl power but still likes wearing dresses and doing her makeup. She is a girly girl but she is still a girl you don't want to mess with.
I didn't like Rose or Heath at all. They are very much the stereotypical princess and prince. He has a huge ego and thinks the world revolves around him. Rose doesn't care about much other than clothes, tiaras, and other things. I would have loved to have her as the main character, someone who likes being a princess but who also wants what is best for her people and being strong that way instead she seemed like she couldn't handle anything.
I did love that their were two boy characters who actually liked sewing and cooking. I have no idea why one was allergic to everything but he was.
Great start to the series!
I did NOT receive a complimentary copy. I read this from the library or on KU.
Love the characters. Not quite sure how I feel about the heavy amount of feminism in here but really love Sasha because she runs a blog and has that girl power but still likes wearing dresses and doing her makeup. She is a girly girl but she is still a girl you don't want to mess with.
I didn't like Rose or Heath at all. They are very much the stereotypical princess and prince. He has a huge ego and thinks the world revolves around him. Rose doesn't care about much other than clothes, tiaras, and other things. I would have loved to have her as the main character, someone who likes being a princess but who also wants what is best for her people and being strong that way instead she seemed like she couldn't handle anything.
I did love that their were two boy characters who actually liked sewing and cooking. I have no idea why one was allergic to everything but he was.
Great start to the series!
I did NOT receive a complimentary copy. I read this from the library or on KU.
February 28, 2021
WONDERFULL!!! Definitely recommended to fairy tale lovers! But before you start the series, READ FAIRY TALE REFORM SCHOOL (the greatest book series of all time) or the universe might not make too much sense. If you want to read in chronological order, follow this timeline (FTRS means Fairy Tale Reform School; RAR means Royal Academy Rebels):
FLUNKED(FTRS), CHARMED(FTRS), TRICKED(FTRS), SWITCHED(FTRS), MISFITS(RAR - This book), WISHED(FTRS), OUTLAWS(RAR), CURSED(FTRS), HEROES(RAR)
However, some things might get confusing in this order because the FTRS and RAR books follow completely different storylines with completely different characters and completely different settings, but that's the order in which they take place.
Warning: Cliffhanger! I love how the end of this book shoots directly into the beginning of the next book and sets up a wonderful series. OUTLAWS and HEROES are the next books in the series that follow MISFITS.
Devin is such a fun narrator! A princess who doesn't want to be a princess makes the perfect protagonist to see through the "flawless" system of royalty. Instead of being a princess, she would much rather be a Creature Caretaker (Princess Rule #31: A princess can always rely on animal friends for assistance) which doesn't fly well with her mother nor Headmistress Olivina, the headmistress of RA/Cinderella's fairy godmother. Will Devin be able to blend in enough to make Olivina happy? Or does Devin's future have different plans than looking pretty on a throne?
FLUNKED(FTRS), CHARMED(FTRS), TRICKED(FTRS), SWITCHED(FTRS), MISFITS(RAR - This book), WISHED(FTRS), OUTLAWS(RAR), CURSED(FTRS), HEROES(RAR)
However, some things might get confusing in this order because the FTRS and RAR books follow completely different storylines with completely different characters and completely different settings, but that's the order in which they take place.
Warning: Cliffhanger! I love how the end of this book shoots directly into the beginning of the next book and sets up a wonderful series. OUTLAWS and HEROES are the next books in the series that follow MISFITS.
Devin is such a fun narrator! A princess who doesn't want to be a princess makes the perfect protagonist to see through the "flawless" system of royalty. Instead of being a princess, she would much rather be a Creature Caretaker (Princess Rule #31: A princess can always rely on animal friends for assistance) which doesn't fly well with her mother nor Headmistress Olivina, the headmistress of RA/Cinderella's fairy godmother. Will Devin be able to blend in enough to make Olivina happy? Or does Devin's future have different plans than looking pretty on a throne?
April 29, 2023
Once again Jen Calonita has written another delightful fairy tale retelling, full of exciting escapades and rebellious spirit! I actually enjoyed this more than Fairytale Reform School which I still adore, but there was something about this Rebellious Royals series that really hooked me.
The characters, especially dear Devin, are strong-willed, brave, entertaining and very likable (although Raina did annoy me at times but I think she has promising character development.) I love that it questioned stereotypes set within these well known tales and figures, weaving action, adventure, and magic with courageous and confident (and slightly rebellious) royals that don't fit the mould they were born to. I think it is a very encouraging and inspiring read for young girls and boys, with a character such as Devin to look up to.
Set in a classic boarding school situated in a magical kingdom, there is plenty fun to be hand in this fast-paced lively adventure, featuring many familiar and unfamiliar characters from the world of fairy tales. Calonita has written a light-hearted, quirky and quick read following it's predecessor in style and imagination.
IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/CoikjkKyvL8/
The characters, especially dear Devin, are strong-willed, brave, entertaining and very likable (although Raina did annoy me at times but I think she has promising character development.) I love that it questioned stereotypes set within these well known tales and figures, weaving action, adventure, and magic with courageous and confident (and slightly rebellious) royals that don't fit the mould they were born to. I think it is a very encouraging and inspiring read for young girls and boys, with a character such as Devin to look up to.
Set in a classic boarding school situated in a magical kingdom, there is plenty fun to be hand in this fast-paced lively adventure, featuring many familiar and unfamiliar characters from the world of fairy tales. Calonita has written a light-hearted, quirky and quick read following it's predecessor in style and imagination.
IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/CoikjkKyvL8/
September 18, 2018
Devin has a gift -- she can talk to animals. She would much rather stay at home and tent do the forest creatures who need her healing skills, but is required to attend the Royal Academy. When she gets there, she immediately finds herself racking up strike after strike and is headed for banishment. All her instincts seem to be breaking the rules that the head of the school and resident fairy godmother put in place. Will Devin and her friends be able to expose the corruption at the Royal Academy in time to avoid being banished? Who can they trust? Definitely looking forward to Book 2!
A big thank you to Sourcebooks and Edelweiss for a digital ARC of this fascinating fairy tale read.
A big thank you to Sourcebooks and Edelweiss for a digital ARC of this fascinating fairy tale read.
August 12, 2020
I loved Devin and what she stood for, I can't wait to continue the series.
August 1, 2021
I loved this book!!! It was so fun! I am in love with the main character, Devin. She is a princess who does not want to be a princess and her true passion is a creature care taker. But she has to go to the royal academy because it is required of all young royals. But there is something weird going on at RA and it is up to Devin and her friends to figure it out! This book was so great and I enjoyed every second of it! **It was a cliff hanger though! This makes me even more excited to read the next book in the trilogy Outlaws!
February 21, 2024
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
I've been meaning to check out the Fairy Tale Reform School Series for a long time because it just looks so incredibly fun, so when I saw that there was a spin-off series (Royal Academy Rebels), I thought I'd jump in and see what I've been missing!
As expected, this series is super light and fluffy and adorable and perfect for MG readers who love the boarding school spin on fairy tales. The MC is Devin, a reluctant royal who would prefer to be taking care of animals rather than dressing up for endless balls. She'd also much rather fight for herself than wait around for a prince to save her in a crisis. Neither of these things go over too well at the Royal Academy, though Devin does manage to pick up some allies when it becomes obvious that the princessy way of doing things isn't always going to cut it. There are some great messages here for young girls, and there are lots of mysteries set up about the headmistress---things aren't what they seem at the academy. But be forewarned that this is the first in a series, and there's really no resolution at all in this book... you have to wait for future books to find out what happens to this ragtag team of misfits.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
I've been meaning to check out the Fairy Tale Reform School Series for a long time because it just looks so incredibly fun, so when I saw that there was a spin-off series (Royal Academy Rebels), I thought I'd jump in and see what I've been missing!
As expected, this series is super light and fluffy and adorable and perfect for MG readers who love the boarding school spin on fairy tales. The MC is Devin, a reluctant royal who would prefer to be taking care of animals rather than dressing up for endless balls. She'd also much rather fight for herself than wait around for a prince to save her in a crisis. Neither of these things go over too well at the Royal Academy, though Devin does manage to pick up some allies when it becomes obvious that the princessy way of doing things isn't always going to cut it. There are some great messages here for young girls, and there are lots of mysteries set up about the headmistress---things aren't what they seem at the academy. But be forewarned that this is the first in a series, and there's really no resolution at all in this book... you have to wait for future books to find out what happens to this ragtag team of misfits.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
January 13, 2020
Such a good book. It ends in such a way where if you liked it, you have to read the next one. It's not exactly a cliff hanger, but it is something like that.
February 26, 2022
Review by Lucy, age 8
This book is about a girl/princess (or royal) named Devinaria who could talk to animals and was really not very princess-y. Her dream was being an animal caretaker.
One day when she was out helping some animals, their footman Jacques called her from the woods. Fortunately she was done mending a little bird's wing. Jacques tells her that she needs to go to her mother, because her invitation to "Royal Academy" has arrived. The invitation tells her that she must be there in one week. Despite her really not wanting to go, she has to, because it's the law.
Royal Academy is run by Headmistress Olivina, who is the fairy godmother. Her mom really wants her to go. She has no choice. And her dad tries to help convince Olivina not to make Devin go. But she ends up going anyway.
One of the major events that happens here is at the first night, there's a First Knight Out ball. During the ball, harpies attack! They are undead. Devin thinks this is all real and that people are going to get hurt, so she decides to take matters into her own hands, instead of what she's supposed to do, which is let the princes deal with it. She then learns it was all just a test. Olivina is not happy about Devin's actions. She gets one strike. If she gets three of them, she'll get banished - but the fairy godmother says that rarely ever happens.
That's all I'm going to tell you or there will be too many spoilers.
I liked the not princess-y princess, because I don't like books about princess-y princesses. I didn't Not like much of anything, but if I told you who I didn't like, it would give spoilers.
Mom: What does Devin learn about herself in this story?
Lucy: She learns that she is very not what a princess is expected to be. She learns to be OK with this.
Mom: What virtues does Devin show in this book?
Lucy: Courageousness. She protects other people and animals with her own life. She learns to be loyal to her roommates.
Mom: What vices does Devin, or anyone else show?
Lucy: The bad guy showed dishonesty and greed and selfishness.
Mom: Did this book have a primarily virtuous, neutral, or negative message?
Lucy: neutral to positive. That's normally what my books are, because they're normally not negative, but neither are they just neutral.
Mom: Would you read the rest of the books in this series?
Lucy: Yes, that's what I am trying to do.
This book is about a girl/princess (or royal) named Devinaria who could talk to animals and was really not very princess-y. Her dream was being an animal caretaker.
One day when she was out helping some animals, their footman Jacques called her from the woods. Fortunately she was done mending a little bird's wing. Jacques tells her that she needs to go to her mother, because her invitation to "Royal Academy" has arrived. The invitation tells her that she must be there in one week. Despite her really not wanting to go, she has to, because it's the law.
Royal Academy is run by Headmistress Olivina, who is the fairy godmother. Her mom really wants her to go. She has no choice. And her dad tries to help convince Olivina not to make Devin go. But she ends up going anyway.
One of the major events that happens here is at the first night, there's a First Knight Out ball. During the ball, harpies attack! They are undead. Devin thinks this is all real and that people are going to get hurt, so she decides to take matters into her own hands, instead of what she's supposed to do, which is let the princes deal with it. She then learns it was all just a test. Olivina is not happy about Devin's actions. She gets one strike. If she gets three of them, she'll get banished - but the fairy godmother says that rarely ever happens.
That's all I'm going to tell you or there will be too many spoilers.
I liked the not princess-y princess, because I don't like books about princess-y princesses. I didn't Not like much of anything, but if I told you who I didn't like, it would give spoilers.
Mom: What does Devin learn about herself in this story?
Lucy: She learns that she is very not what a princess is expected to be. She learns to be OK with this.
Mom: What virtues does Devin show in this book?
Lucy: Courageousness. She protects other people and animals with her own life. She learns to be loyal to her roommates.
Mom: What vices does Devin, or anyone else show?
Lucy: The bad guy showed dishonesty and greed and selfishness.
Mom: Did this book have a primarily virtuous, neutral, or negative message?
Lucy: neutral to positive. That's normally what my books are, because they're normally not negative, but neither are they just neutral.
Mom: Would you read the rest of the books in this series?
Lucy: Yes, that's what I am trying to do.
November 10, 2021
I'm one of those rare girls who actually would have done quite well at a princess school. I think I'd do far better at a princess school than at the Reform school starring in Calonita's other series. I was therefore quite excited to start this one, but when I got it I discovered I actually had to read the fourth Reform School book first, so it took me a little longer to get to this than I had hoped. You know what they say, the longer the wait...
From the very first page this book and I just clicked. Everything about it worked for me. The setting is amazing. It's a princess school as I had hoped it would be. It's quite clear that there's something really wrong with the headmaster's point of view, but it's still nice to see all those girls working on their party planning skills and their talent to be nice to small little animals (and not fire breathing dragons escaping from the dungeon!).
I also clicked with the characters in this story. Although the heroine is not a classical princess, I'm quite sure she will show the world that she's not less of a princess because she can take care of herself and doesn't like waiting around for princes to get to her, she's quite likable and throughout the story I felt really sorry for her! However, her roommates are more classical princesses and yet it's quite clear they have an interesting edge too.
Most of the plot in this book focusses on the school and the setting and it's only at the end that the bigger plot is revealed. Of course, after what's happening throughout the book it's quite clear where the ending is going, but I was still very excited to see it all play out, especially because I like how both the villain AND the heroes are clearly intelligent. It will certainly make for some very interesting scenes in the next book! I can't wait for it to arrive!
From the very first page this book and I just clicked. Everything about it worked for me. The setting is amazing. It's a princess school as I had hoped it would be. It's quite clear that there's something really wrong with the headmaster's point of view, but it's still nice to see all those girls working on their party planning skills and their talent to be nice to small little animals (and not fire breathing dragons escaping from the dungeon!).
I also clicked with the characters in this story. Although the heroine is not a classical princess, I'm quite sure she will show the world that she's not less of a princess because she can take care of herself and doesn't like waiting around for princes to get to her, she's quite likable and throughout the story I felt really sorry for her! However, her roommates are more classical princesses and yet it's quite clear they have an interesting edge too.
Most of the plot in this book focusses on the school and the setting and it's only at the end that the bigger plot is revealed. Of course, after what's happening throughout the book it's quite clear where the ending is going, but I was still very excited to see it all play out, especially because I like how both the villain AND the heroes are clearly intelligent. It will certainly make for some very interesting scenes in the next book! I can't wait for it to arrive!
May 10, 2019
4.5 stars! I would probably have rated this as a five if I was younger, and a four now, so I'll go for the middle ground.
Read in one day! I love that middle grade books are nice, quick reads and still pack a great story! For some reason, I wasn't a fan of Flunked after being 50 pages in, but the counterpart school of the Royal Academy and the character of Princess Devin sucked me in to this one! I wish this had been longer, honestly, so we could have seen more development between the characters. I thought Raina and Sasha and Logan's friendships with Devin were reasonably established, but I wanted a bit more between Devin and Heath. Also I think Brynn and Anastasia are great characters, and I hope we get to see more of them.
Read in one day! I love that middle grade books are nice, quick reads and still pack a great story! For some reason, I wasn't a fan of Flunked after being 50 pages in, but the counterpart school of the Royal Academy and the character of Princess Devin sucked me in to this one! I wish this had been longer, honestly, so we could have seen more development between the characters. I thought Raina and Sasha and Logan's friendships with Devin were reasonably established, but I wanted a bit more between Devin and Heath. Also I think Brynn and Anastasia are great characters, and I hope we get to see more of them.
September 28, 2019
Interest Level: 3-6; Reading Level: 4.4
If you were born to live one way but you but you grew up wanting to live another way, would you do what you thought was right, or would you follow your heart? For Princess Devin Nile, she would be happy living her life in the forest taking care of all the animals. Devin has a very unusual talent - she can talk to and understand animals. However, Devin is a princess and she is expected to go to RA, Royal Academy, where all of the prince and princesses go to learn the proper ways of royalty. From the moment Devin steps out of her pumpkin carriage and onto the Royal Academy campus, she does not fit in. She did not read and memorize the princess manual like all of the other girls so she seems to be breaking the rules left and right. For example, her first class is with Snow White and it is Creature Care. Devin is so excited because this is right up her alley, but when a dragon gets loose, according to the manual, Devin is supposed to sit back and wait for a prince save the day. So when Devin helps to get the dragon under control, she is given her first strike for not following the rules. Next, when all of the princesses are kidnapped and placed in a tall tower, being attacked by a dragon, and the tower is on fire, Devin tries to wait for a prince to come but once again, she jumps in to save the day. Strike two. If Devin gets strike three she will be kicked out of RA and her family will be humiliated, they will lose their place in society, and never be able to show their face again. Devin can not let that happen so she promises to be the perfect princess. Olivina, the fairy godmother, has made it very clear to Devin if she doesn't get in line she will be banished. Olivina has also threatened her roommates and friends - Heath and Raina White, Snow White's siblings; Sasha Briarwood, Princess Rose's sister; and Logan Nederlander. So when everyone is gathered in the ballroom and trouble comes once again, is Devin going to sit back and be the perfect princess she is supposed to be or is her instincts going to kick in? Will Devin get her third strike, get kicked out of RA, and bring shame to her family? Or will she sit back and let the princes take care of the situation? And what about Olivina, the fairy godmother? Is she on the good side or is something more sinister going on? Check out this amazing fantasy novel to find out the answers to these questions and so much more!!
This is one of my favorite books that I have read in a while! I love anything to do with Disney princesses and fairy tale characters. Jen Calonita brings a winner with her newest series, Royal Academy Rebels. I was listening to this book on my drive to and from work. I was in the middle of chapter 19 of 20 when I pulled up at work and I did not want to go in. I needed to finish this action-packed, edge-of-your-seat book. This book is incredible and when you get to the end you will have to read book 2, Outlaws! Do not miss the Royal Academy Rebels series!!!
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If you were born to live one way but you but you grew up wanting to live another way, would you do what you thought was right, or would you follow your heart? For Princess Devin Nile, she would be happy living her life in the forest taking care of all the animals. Devin has a very unusual talent - she can talk to and understand animals. However, Devin is a princess and she is expected to go to RA, Royal Academy, where all of the prince and princesses go to learn the proper ways of royalty. From the moment Devin steps out of her pumpkin carriage and onto the Royal Academy campus, she does not fit in. She did not read and memorize the princess manual like all of the other girls so she seems to be breaking the rules left and right. For example, her first class is with Snow White and it is Creature Care. Devin is so excited because this is right up her alley, but when a dragon gets loose, according to the manual, Devin is supposed to sit back and wait for a prince save the day. So when Devin helps to get the dragon under control, she is given her first strike for not following the rules. Next, when all of the princesses are kidnapped and placed in a tall tower, being attacked by a dragon, and the tower is on fire, Devin tries to wait for a prince to come but once again, she jumps in to save the day. Strike two. If Devin gets strike three she will be kicked out of RA and her family will be humiliated, they will lose their place in society, and never be able to show their face again. Devin can not let that happen so she promises to be the perfect princess. Olivina, the fairy godmother, has made it very clear to Devin if she doesn't get in line she will be banished. Olivina has also threatened her roommates and friends - Heath and Raina White, Snow White's siblings; Sasha Briarwood, Princess Rose's sister; and Logan Nederlander. So when everyone is gathered in the ballroom and trouble comes once again, is Devin going to sit back and be the perfect princess she is supposed to be or is her instincts going to kick in? Will Devin get her third strike, get kicked out of RA, and bring shame to her family? Or will she sit back and let the princes take care of the situation? And what about Olivina, the fairy godmother? Is she on the good side or is something more sinister going on? Check out this amazing fantasy novel to find out the answers to these questions and so much more!!
This is one of my favorite books that I have read in a while! I love anything to do with Disney princesses and fairy tale characters. Jen Calonita brings a winner with her newest series, Royal Academy Rebels. I was listening to this book on my drive to and from work. I was in the middle of chapter 19 of 20 when I pulled up at work and I did not want to go in. I needed to finish this action-packed, edge-of-your-seat book. This book is incredible and when you get to the end you will have to read book 2, Outlaws! Do not miss the Royal Academy Rebels series!!!
Follow me:
Blog - Blazer Tales - https://blazertales.com/
Facebook - Laurie’s Library Place - https://www.facebook.com/LauriesLibra...
Instagram - laurieslibrary - https://www.instagram.com/laurieslibr...
Twitter - @laurieevans27 https://twitter.com/laurieevans27?lan...
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April 27, 2019
This was a fantastic and delightfully quick read! I devoured the whole book in one sitting, and can't wait to read the sequel! The main character Devin makes a great female hero, even though that's the last thing that Fairy God Mother Olivina wants her to be.... but Devin refuses to be molded into a scared princess who can't fight her own battles. She is not waiting around for any prince to save her, she'll save herself! I will certainly be checking out more books from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley, as well as the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley, as well as the publisher for providing me with a digital copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2020
Cute and amusing for a YA book. Fast read.
October 29, 2020
3 stars
December 14, 2024
Hadlee: What I liked about it was that devin could talk 2 animals. And also I thought that her friend were nice to her.And I like that they found out that the fairy godmother what was evil and they heard a wolf Howl in a distance so I'm excited to meet red riding hood next
April 22, 2024
Jen is an awesome writer!
8
8
August 17, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It was fast-paced, I could barely put it down! Very interesting, I would recommend to all fairy tale lovers. The cliff hanger was almost too much to bear!
April 7, 2022
Princess Devin is way down in the line for the throne, but she still gets an invite (or summons, since attendance is mandatory) to Royal Academy. Devin would much rather stay at home and work on her skills talking to and caring for animals, but she has no choice so off she goes. She's off to a rough start not having read the school manual, and she makes a mountain of faux pas in her first hours, but its got to get better, right? Or maybe not. Devin keeps finding herself running afoul of Headmistress/Fairy Godmother Olvinia's strict guidelines for princess behavior, especially not waiting for princes to come to do the rescuing. Devin must fit in or her whole family is in danger of being banished. But is Devin all that stubborn and bad at princessing or is something else up?
So fair warning, this does end on a bit of a cliffhanger. You do get to find out what is going on behind the scenes, but Devin and her friends are stuck in a bit of a pickle on that last page. Best to have book 2 on hand if possible. It was very fun to be back in Enchantasia and see what things are like at the Royal Academy this time. Some characters from the Fairy Tale Reform School series do show up, mainly the princesses who rule the land and Ella's stepsisters. So far that is it, but I think more are on the way. Devin is a very likable main character. The injustices she faces for being an independent young woman are infuriating, but there's definitely hope that things are going to get better by the end of the series. I listened to the audiobook for parts of this, and the narrator is back who did FTRS which is nice, and she keeps doing a splendid array of voices. Can't wait for the next book. Calonita knows how to write very fun magic boarding school/fractured fairy tale mashup adventures.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. Some perilous situations but no one is seriously hurt. There's some serious restriction on what girls are allowed to do, but change is in the wind.
So fair warning, this does end on a bit of a cliffhanger. You do get to find out what is going on behind the scenes, but Devin and her friends are stuck in a bit of a pickle on that last page. Best to have book 2 on hand if possible. It was very fun to be back in Enchantasia and see what things are like at the Royal Academy this time. Some characters from the Fairy Tale Reform School series do show up, mainly the princesses who rule the land and Ella's stepsisters. So far that is it, but I think more are on the way. Devin is a very likable main character. The injustices she faces for being an independent young woman are infuriating, but there's definitely hope that things are going to get better by the end of the series. I listened to the audiobook for parts of this, and the narrator is back who did FTRS which is nice, and she keeps doing a splendid array of voices. Can't wait for the next book. Calonita knows how to write very fun magic boarding school/fractured fairy tale mashup adventures.
Notes on content: No language issues. No sexual content. Some perilous situations but no one is seriously hurt. There's some serious restriction on what girls are allowed to do, but change is in the wind.
December 4, 2018
So, so cute!
Devin is not your typical princess. She can talk to animals, prefers to wear pants, and absolutely does NOT want to attend Royal Academy, a school for young princesses and princes. Much to her disappointment, she ends up at Royal Academy anyway. At first, everything seems fine, but it doesn't take long before Devin and her new roommates start noticing some weird things happening. Soon, Devin is defending her classmates from harpies and dragons—but magical creatures are the least of her problems!
Misfits is the first book in a spin-off series from Jen Calonita's popular Fairy Tale Reform School series but it can be read on its own without any confusion. It's set in the same world and features the princes and princesses of the kingdom rather than the outlaws.
It was a delightful and fun book to read! If your kids love Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams, they're going to gobble this book up. It's perfect for kids that like fairy tales, adventure, and rebel girls.
Content: Some mildly perilous situations. If it were a movie, it would be rated PG.
Source: Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy of the book!
Devin is not your typical princess. She can talk to animals, prefers to wear pants, and absolutely does NOT want to attend Royal Academy, a school for young princesses and princes. Much to her disappointment, she ends up at Royal Academy anyway. At first, everything seems fine, but it doesn't take long before Devin and her new roommates start noticing some weird things happening. Soon, Devin is defending her classmates from harpies and dragons—but magical creatures are the least of her problems!
Misfits is the first book in a spin-off series from Jen Calonita's popular Fairy Tale Reform School series but it can be read on its own without any confusion. It's set in the same world and features the princes and princesses of the kingdom rather than the outlaws.
It was a delightful and fun book to read! If your kids love Joan Holub and Suzanne Williams, they're going to gobble this book up. It's perfect for kids that like fairy tales, adventure, and rebel girls.
Content: Some mildly perilous situations. If it were a movie, it would be rated PG.
Source: Thank you to the publisher for sending me a copy of the book!
September 5, 2018
This book is a bit of a copycat of Harry Potter. The Royal Academy, though, has less purpose than a magical school. Devin, the main character, can talk to animals and she is rare royalty. She has an ambitious mother who has known about the Royal Academy all of Devin's life, but somehow Devin doesn't know any rules or what to do when she gets there. And the ambitious mother didn't know about how rare Devin's animal talking gift was and how it could help Devin's royal endeavors. I think an ambitious mother would know. I wish authors should stop teaching about class systems and how some people are just born better than others. Save the royalty for historical fiction. The author tried to bring too many fairy tales into the story with various characters being related to familiar fairy tale characters. I think this was too much. I like fractured fairy tales and fairy tales extended to chapter books, but this was way over done. Just pick one. The plot never grabbed me and I had to force myself through the story.
March 20, 2021
Devin has all the spunk of a middle grade character but the book seems to pit her as so clearly a tomboy she can't be anything else. There's also the blatant "this is a princess and this isn't" and I just feel like the whole book was just too rigid in it's interpretations of everything for me to truly enjoy it.
The characters were pretty cute though!
The characters were pretty cute though!
February 4, 2022
1.5 stars
A repeat of Fairy Tale Reform School, but with different characters. Some of the characters, mainly Devin, have potential but this series needs to find its own plot. I'm afraid this is going to become yet another shallow girl power story.
A repeat of Fairy Tale Reform School, but with different characters. Some of the characters, mainly Devin, have potential but this series needs to find its own plot. I'm afraid this is going to become yet another shallow girl power story.
January 12, 2021
This new series set in the same world as Fairy Tale Reform School is amazing! I loved the new characters and the different side of the world we get to see with the royal eyes. I loved the plot twist at the very end and can’t wait to see what happens next to my new book friends.
September 24, 2023
Can Devin and her friends Raina, Sasha, Heath,and Logan show the kingdom of Enchantasia that princesses and princes are more then just party lovers. The have got fierceness and this one group of royals are ready to fight back against the unfair rules and restrictions of Royal Academy!
April 6, 2024
I cannot express how much I love Enchantasia!
August 9, 2024
"Misfits," the first book in the "Royal Academy Rebels" series by Jen Calonita, offers a whimsical journey into a world where fairy tales and royal training collide. While targeted towards a younger audience, the book provides a mix of adventure, magic, and friendship, though it may not entirely resonate with older readers.
**Plot Summary:**
The story follows Devinaria (Devin), a young girl with a unique gift for understanding animals, as she embarks on a reluctant journey to the Royal Academy. Her adventure begins when she receives an invitation for princess training, despite her desire to stay home and care for woodland creatures. Convinced by her father and the Fairy Godmother's insistence on her attending due to her special gift, Devinaria finds herself whisked away to the Academy in a pumpkin carriage.
At the Academy, Devinaria navigates the challenges of fitting in, making friends, and understanding the mysterious and controlling Olivina. She encounters various characters, including Snow White's younger brother Heathcliff, her roommates Sasha and Raina, and the dragon allergic Logan. Together, they face tests of bravery and loyalty, including rescuing Olivina from harpies and dealing with dragons in Creature Care class.
However, as the story unfolds, Devinaria discovers that Olivina may not be as benevolent as she seems. With the help of her friends, Devinaria uncovers a plot that threatens the very fabric of Enchantasia, leading to their banishment and a quest to seek help from Red Riding Hood.
**Review:**
"Misfits" has a charming premise and a setting that promises magic and adventure. However, the execution may leave some readers wanting more. The plot building feels somewhat slow, with significant events happening sporadically, leading to a sense of uneven pacing. The initial chapters, while setting the stage, can feel tedious as they delve into the minutiae of Devinaria's daily life and struggles at the Academy.
Devinaria is a likable protagonist, and her ability to communicate with animals adds an interesting layer to her character. However, her interactions and the overall character development sometimes fall flat. The supporting characters, including the enigmatic Olivina and the various princes and princesses, provide some intrigue but often lack depth.
The book's central conflict, involving Olivina's true intentions and the subsequent banishment of Devinaria and her friends, picks up the pace towards the end. However, the resolution feels rushed and somewhat predictable. The story's climax, while exciting, could benefit from more buildup and complexity.
One notable aspect of "Misfits" is its exploration of friendship and loyalty. Devinaria's relationships with her roommates, particularly Sasha and Raina, highlight the importance of trust and teamwork. The inclusion of familiar fairy tale elements and characters adds a nostalgic touch, making it enjoyable for younger readers familiar with these stories.
**Conclusion:**
"Misfits" by Jen Calonita is a decent start to the "Royal Academy Rebels" series, offering a blend of magic, adventure, and fairy tale charm. While it may not fully captivate older readers, it serves as an engaging read for its target audience. The book sets the stage for further adventures, leaving readers curious about Devinaria's future and the challenges she and her friends will face. If you're a fan of fairy tale retellings with a twist, "Misfits" is worth a read, but be prepared for a story that takes its time to unfold.
**Plot Summary:**
The story follows Devinaria (Devin), a young girl with a unique gift for understanding animals, as she embarks on a reluctant journey to the Royal Academy. Her adventure begins when she receives an invitation for princess training, despite her desire to stay home and care for woodland creatures. Convinced by her father and the Fairy Godmother's insistence on her attending due to her special gift, Devinaria finds herself whisked away to the Academy in a pumpkin carriage.
At the Academy, Devinaria navigates the challenges of fitting in, making friends, and understanding the mysterious and controlling Olivina. She encounters various characters, including Snow White's younger brother Heathcliff, her roommates Sasha and Raina, and the dragon allergic Logan. Together, they face tests of bravery and loyalty, including rescuing Olivina from harpies and dealing with dragons in Creature Care class.
However, as the story unfolds, Devinaria discovers that Olivina may not be as benevolent as she seems. With the help of her friends, Devinaria uncovers a plot that threatens the very fabric of Enchantasia, leading to their banishment and a quest to seek help from Red Riding Hood.
**Review:**
"Misfits" has a charming premise and a setting that promises magic and adventure. However, the execution may leave some readers wanting more. The plot building feels somewhat slow, with significant events happening sporadically, leading to a sense of uneven pacing. The initial chapters, while setting the stage, can feel tedious as they delve into the minutiae of Devinaria's daily life and struggles at the Academy.
Devinaria is a likable protagonist, and her ability to communicate with animals adds an interesting layer to her character. However, her interactions and the overall character development sometimes fall flat. The supporting characters, including the enigmatic Olivina and the various princes and princesses, provide some intrigue but often lack depth.
The book's central conflict, involving Olivina's true intentions and the subsequent banishment of Devinaria and her friends, picks up the pace towards the end. However, the resolution feels rushed and somewhat predictable. The story's climax, while exciting, could benefit from more buildup and complexity.
One notable aspect of "Misfits" is its exploration of friendship and loyalty. Devinaria's relationships with her roommates, particularly Sasha and Raina, highlight the importance of trust and teamwork. The inclusion of familiar fairy tale elements and characters adds a nostalgic touch, making it enjoyable for younger readers familiar with these stories.
**Conclusion:**
"Misfits" by Jen Calonita is a decent start to the "Royal Academy Rebels" series, offering a blend of magic, adventure, and fairy tale charm. While it may not fully captivate older readers, it serves as an engaging read for its target audience. The book sets the stage for further adventures, leaving readers curious about Devinaria's future and the challenges she and her friends will face. If you're a fan of fairy tale retellings with a twist, "Misfits" is worth a read, but be prepared for a story that takes its time to unfold.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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