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The Eagle King's Academy #1
The Academy: Making of a Ruler
“I want you to remember something, Mr Hallman,” she whispered. “At the Academy you’re always evaluated. Even when you least expect it.”
Very little is known about the Eagle King’s Academy, but when 22 year-old Axel is admitted, he’s catapulted into a world filled with luxury, gruelling trainings, and dark secrets. In this world built on lies, ambition and pride, he’s primed to become one of the most influential and powerful leaders of his time. The only problem is - Axel never wanted to become a ruler.
Nine years earlier, Sarah Wangai entered the prestigious academy with hopes of changing the world for the better. No one has heard of her since, but her story is eerily similar to Axel’s.
The road to leadership is dirty and treacherous. To graduate, students must be willing to sacrifice everything they hold dear. But Axel isn’t the only one at odds with the Academy. An enemy lurks in the shadows, and soon Axel finds himself caught in the crosshairs of a very sinister game of power.
Very little is known about the Eagle King’s Academy, but when 22 year-old Axel is admitted, he’s catapulted into a world filled with luxury, gruelling trainings, and dark secrets. In this world built on lies, ambition and pride, he’s primed to become one of the most influential and powerful leaders of his time. The only problem is - Axel never wanted to become a ruler.
Nine years earlier, Sarah Wangai entered the prestigious academy with hopes of changing the world for the better. No one has heard of her since, but her story is eerily similar to Axel’s.
The road to leadership is dirty and treacherous. To graduate, students must be willing to sacrifice everything they hold dear. But Axel isn’t the only one at odds with the Academy. An enemy lurks in the shadows, and soon Axel finds himself caught in the crosshairs of a very sinister game of power.
- GenresFantasy
382 pages, Paperback
First published April 7, 2017
20 people are currently reading
636 people want to read
About the author
Christian Monö
6 books23 followersChristian Monö (1977), is recognized for his work on “natural followership” and “collaborationship.” For nearly two decades, he has explored leadership and followership from the follower’s perspective. Drawing insights from various disciplines, as well as real-life observations, interviews, and practical experience, Monö presents a new perspective on what it means to lead and follow. His work has gained recognition both in his home country, Sweden, and internationally, with clients ranging from universities and corporations to organizations and the Swedish Army. In 2024, he was honored with the “Followership Award of Distinction” at the Global Followership Conference. Monö lives in Stockholm with his wife and two daughters.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
July 19, 2017
I absolutely devoured this book... it's like Harry Potter for grown ups - although the only magic is in the writing!
A sumptuous academy with fabulously rich facilities, open only to the chosen few, but with a sinister secret, and emerging internal power struggles. This is the first book in The Eagle King's Academy and C.C. Mono has laid the foundations for a truly brilliant series.
The characters are really well drawn and the author has a the knack for making you love, loathe and empathise as necessary, the descriptions are evocative and the interweaving of Sarah and Axels story is really well handled.
I have very high expectations and am eagerly awaiting the next in the series! 5 big fat juicy stars!!
I read and reviewed for THE Book Club (TBC) #TBConFB
A sumptuous academy with fabulously rich facilities, open only to the chosen few, but with a sinister secret, and emerging internal power struggles. This is the first book in The Eagle King's Academy and C.C. Mono has laid the foundations for a truly brilliant series.
The characters are really well drawn and the author has a the knack for making you love, loathe and empathise as necessary, the descriptions are evocative and the interweaving of Sarah and Axels story is really well handled.
I have very high expectations and am eagerly awaiting the next in the series! 5 big fat juicy stars!!
I read and reviewed for THE Book Club (TBC) #TBConFB
August 19, 2017
Wonderful...I just loved it and urge everyone to read it you won't regret it. Thank you to this wonderful author for writing such a compulsive read I can't wait for the next book .... 5 stars
August 8, 2017
My Review: “A brilliant start to what should be the next “BIG THING” – think Harry Potter for grown-ups without the magic but lots of gadgets!”
This book was brought to my attention by some readers on THE Book Club who all gave it a glowing review and said I needed to read it. However with a TBR pile currently at 501 books, I still agreed and popped it straight to the top, because if the members of TBC said it was great that’s all the encouragement I needed.
The reviews have compared it to a grown-up Harry Potter without the magic and I totally agree. Axel Hallman, a 22 year old Swedish man has been accepted as one of the 12 elite chosen to study at the infamous Eagle King’s Academy, selected from over 240,000 applicants and destined to become a world leader, however he doesn’t actually want to be a leader.
The story alternates between Axel and Sarah, a student of The Academy 9 years previously and their fears, beliefs and concerns about leadership and power and changing the world. With a great cast of characters including the other 11 students, the professors and watchers, I was transported to the top secret Academy in Brussels and amazed by the technology and intense training situations the students had to endure.
If you love your thrillers with a smidgen of politics, lots of high tech gadgets, espionage, the obligatory bad guys and a hero with a conscious, you will LOVE this book. READ IT NEXT.
This is Book 1 in the series and already I can’t wait for the author to write Book 2.
This book was brought to my attention by some readers on THE Book Club who all gave it a glowing review and said I needed to read it. However with a TBR pile currently at 501 books, I still agreed and popped it straight to the top, because if the members of TBC said it was great that’s all the encouragement I needed.
The reviews have compared it to a grown-up Harry Potter without the magic and I totally agree. Axel Hallman, a 22 year old Swedish man has been accepted as one of the 12 elite chosen to study at the infamous Eagle King’s Academy, selected from over 240,000 applicants and destined to become a world leader, however he doesn’t actually want to be a leader.
The story alternates between Axel and Sarah, a student of The Academy 9 years previously and their fears, beliefs and concerns about leadership and power and changing the world. With a great cast of characters including the other 11 students, the professors and watchers, I was transported to the top secret Academy in Brussels and amazed by the technology and intense training situations the students had to endure.
If you love your thrillers with a smidgen of politics, lots of high tech gadgets, espionage, the obligatory bad guys and a hero with a conscious, you will LOVE this book. READ IT NEXT.
This is Book 1 in the series and already I can’t wait for the author to write Book 2.
June 8, 2017
So imagine a place that only takes in 12 students to teach them even more once they have reached their potential at university. The best of the best and cream of academic greatness. Well the Eagle King’s Academy is such a place, it is unique, it is where leaders are moulded to rule the world. It felt like I had entered an adult version of Harry Porter but it had lost its magic element of wands and wonder and instead these chosen few had cutting edge technology for their bidding every day. Only the best for the best.
Axel at 22, had only ever pushed himself because of a promise that had been made to him but now those goal posts had been moved again. Axel never wanted things to go this far. He didn’t only have one of the brightest minds at the Academy, he also had a mind of his own that he intended keeping that way, not to be bent into something that someone wanted. Axel could be living on borrowed time, this type of thinking had happened once before and that year only 11 students graduated.
This is a super start to a new series, especially as it is a debut novel too. Although there is a tense setting I felt that this book is more the cement for the rest to be built on. The story follows a couple of time lines, that of Axel and that of a former student Sarah, 9 years previously, both of them having similar approaches to the school and its teaching methods. I got to know the other students and which are key players to how this story and further stories may develop. Then of course the tutors where there is definitely more to them then meets the eye. A rock solid beginning.
Axel at 22, had only ever pushed himself because of a promise that had been made to him but now those goal posts had been moved again. Axel never wanted things to go this far. He didn’t only have one of the brightest minds at the Academy, he also had a mind of his own that he intended keeping that way, not to be bent into something that someone wanted. Axel could be living on borrowed time, this type of thinking had happened once before and that year only 11 students graduated.
This is a super start to a new series, especially as it is a debut novel too. Although there is a tense setting I felt that this book is more the cement for the rest to be built on. The story follows a couple of time lines, that of Axel and that of a former student Sarah, 9 years previously, both of them having similar approaches to the school and its teaching methods. I got to know the other students and which are key players to how this story and further stories may develop. Then of course the tutors where there is definitely more to them then meets the eye. A rock solid beginning.
August 9, 2020
Axel is our reluctant 'hero' in this intriguing story that is based around the Eagle Kings Academy and their mission to train the next world leaders. It gives off a bit of a 'Kingsman' vibe in that the chosen few get whatever they need at their fingertips to achieve theirs, and the E.K.A's goal of becoming some of the most powerful leaders of their time. But there is a dark undercurrent that only Axel seems to be picking up on. What is their aim? What are they going to be expected to do? And to what lengths are they willing to go to acheive their agenda? Add into this that he is getting messages from the outside that he doesn't understand and the rumours of another past student who questioned the methods and ideals of the E.K.A, Axel is troubled to say the least, but is it enough to get him to back off and conform?
I absolutely loved this first instalment. The plot build is done really well and the characters are a great mix, from the students and teachers to the darker members of The Box. Excellent story-telling and short chapters make it an easy read that keeps you hooked without you realising it! Can't wait to get stuck straight into book 2!
I absolutely loved this first instalment. The plot build is done really well and the characters are a great mix, from the students and teachers to the darker members of The Box. Excellent story-telling and short chapters make it an easy read that keeps you hooked without you realising it! Can't wait to get stuck straight into book 2!
August 18, 2017
If you are looking for a story that is a bit different, then The Academy will provide that. This first in the series has already left me wanting more! Fast paced, intriguing and with a definite sense of humour, I kepwas transported into the world of The Academy (then couldn’t get Thunderstruck out of my head for days! ).
The characters are very well written and the author has very cleverly interwoven the stories of Axel, one of the current students at The Academy, and Sarah who was a student there 9 years previously. It will definitely make you think hard about leadership, power and big business.
I genuinely can’t wait for the next book in the series as I’m already hooked!
The characters are very well written and the author has very cleverly interwoven the stories of Axel, one of the current students at The Academy, and Sarah who was a student there 9 years previously. It will definitely make you think hard about leadership, power and big business.
I genuinely can’t wait for the next book in the series as I’m already hooked!
March 11, 2017
Was lucky enough to get my hands on a pre-print copy of this book. I had no idea what to expect but positively surprised! This book is set in an international environment. It's fast-paced and exciting, set in a unique environment. Definitely worth reading!
June 8, 2018
This is an absolutely fascinating book that is so easy to read but so unpredictable that you never know what is coming next. This is a compelling read that will appeal to all ages and a huge 5* awarded for a brilliant debut novel.
October 6, 2017
4.5 stars
The author has one of the most engaging writing styles I’ve run into in a while, and a real facility for dialogue. Those two things together made it very easy to get sucked into the novel. The expose on leadership was equally affecting and struck me as all-too-real. The dark sense of humor also scored points.
The author has one of the most engaging writing styles I’ve run into in a while, and a real facility for dialogue. Those two things together made it very easy to get sucked into the novel. The expose on leadership was equally affecting and struck me as all-too-real. The dark sense of humor also scored points.
June 20, 2018
The Academy gripped me from the start. There’s mystery, ominous undertones, fabulosity (is there even such a word? I feel there should be) and romance in this quick read, all of which left me wanting a lot more. Luckily there’s a book two (The Box) which I cannot wait to start! Only the finest 12 people in the world are selected for this top-secret leadership academy. Seriously? What a fascinating premise. And when they get there, they find total luxury. The students get everything they could ever need or desire including luxurious apartments, Rolex watches and beautiful clothes. They’re surrounded by everything of the very best. It’s not all good though. Their training is unbelievably challenging and tough. I was fascinated to learn that author C.C. Monö is fascinated by leadership/followship. The more he read, the more critical he became about the traditional perspectives on leadership and he published a non-fiction book called Beyond the Leadership Myth. So this book is informed by more than just his imagination and is not merely a light-hearted, fast-paced story. It also makes us think about what real leadership really means. So why exactly was Swedish student Axel accepted into the Academy? Not only does Axel himself wonder, but so do we. And slowly we begin to discover that the Academy may have dark secrets, as the author flashes back to events of 20 years previously. And as we dip into a parallel story about a group who seem to be taking an extraordinary interest in Axel and the Academy, so the plot thickens. (Just as a complete aside, even though this book is nothing like the Harry Potter series, I couldn’t help thinking about Hogwarts while reading it.)
September 3, 2017
A very good, unique idea that was a quick read (I started and finished during a 3 and a half hour flight). Well written with a good main plot and some intriguing goings on in the background.
I will definitely read the rest of the series.
I will definitely read the rest of the series.
September 3, 2017
This book grabbed me from the start to the end. It is filled with mystery which keeps you wondering. I am really looking forward to see where the next books take you.
June 17, 2018
Wow, really loved the immersive and intriguing world of The Academy. Exquisite story-telling follows a complex and nuanced main character as he negotiates his way through a beautifully drawn and well-crafted world amongst a bevy of interesting and diverse characters. He faces many challenges and internal dilemmas as the story progresses and the author brilliantly reveals different aspects of his psyche and personality.
There is a sub-plot surrounding events ten years previously, chapters revealing those events are spread throughout the book. Both storylines run chronologically themselves and events revealed from the past have a bearing on the development of the reader’s perception of characters in the later timeline. As a plot device I think it works very well and it is clear from the start of the fairly short punchy chapters within which timeline the events are taking place but I know that some people do not like this technique so if you are one of those, it might put you off. I hope that it doesn’t though because the exquisite writing, in which no words are superfluous make it a very easy book to pick up and a much harder one to put down!
There is a sub-plot surrounding events ten years previously, chapters revealing those events are spread throughout the book. Both storylines run chronologically themselves and events revealed from the past have a bearing on the development of the reader’s perception of characters in the later timeline. As a plot device I think it works very well and it is clear from the start of the fairly short punchy chapters within which timeline the events are taking place but I know that some people do not like this technique so if you are one of those, it might put you off. I hope that it doesn’t though because the exquisite writing, in which no words are superfluous make it a very easy book to pick up and a much harder one to put down!
June 4, 2018
The style of writing is this book is very engaging, with short chapters and a number of flashbacks which makes it an easy read.
The reader enters the world of The Eagle King’s Academy, an elite training school for the next world leaders in different fields of expertise. Only 12 students are accepted every three years and competition is fierce.
Axel is one of the chosen, only problem, he didn’t want a place and went out of his way to fail the selection process. This is explained by him being a ‘wild card’, one of the few things I found hard to understand in the book. If you have such huge numbers applying, why would you risk a precious place with a wild card?
Anyway, that’s a small niggle in an otherwise entertaining and original read. The methods The Academy employ are increasingly suspect but Axel finds himself drawn into the process despite his reservations.
The book is thought provoking and highlights the corruptive, insidious nature of power.
I look forward to the sequel.
The reader enters the world of The Eagle King’s Academy, an elite training school for the next world leaders in different fields of expertise. Only 12 students are accepted every three years and competition is fierce.
Axel is one of the chosen, only problem, he didn’t want a place and went out of his way to fail the selection process. This is explained by him being a ‘wild card’, one of the few things I found hard to understand in the book. If you have such huge numbers applying, why would you risk a precious place with a wild card?
Anyway, that’s a small niggle in an otherwise entertaining and original read. The methods The Academy employ are increasingly suspect but Axel finds himself drawn into the process despite his reservations.
The book is thought provoking and highlights the corruptive, insidious nature of power.
I look forward to the sequel.
April 4, 2018
A wonderful read, this: a plot that builds bit by bit, delivering information just when we need it, filling in the gaps at just the right pace so that there's never a slack moment, but neither is there so much coming in that the reader is overwhelmed; characters we sympathise with and characters we're terrified of, all fully realised; and writing with that quality I always so admire: so good you don't notice it unless you want to, always subservient to the action on the page, unobtrusively excellent. And that's without adding in the thought-provoking commentary on modern society, leadership, power and manipulation that lurks between the paragraphs and that the reader can engage with or ignore as she or he chooses.
I finished the book last night and I'm waiting with baited breath for book 2.
Highly recommended.
I finished the book last night and I'm waiting with baited breath for book 2.
Highly recommended.
Read
August 16, 2018I really enjoyed this book that could also be for YA.
If conspiracy theory is your thing than this is definitely for you.
this book introduces you to Axl, and his class mates and leads you nicely into the follow up book the box.
If conspiracy theory is your thing than this is definitely for you.
this book introduces you to Axl, and his class mates and leads you nicely into the follow up book the box.
June 5, 2018
This book is an astonishingly accomplished read for a debut novel. The author weaves a story about a secret school with a strong ethic of competition at all costs with a wildcard student Alex, a disbelieving rebel who is drawn into the school against his better beliefs and then battles the pull to fit in with help that comes to him in a mysterious way. I was intrigued how the author spun a tale that kept me reading all the way through in one sitting whilst weaving in a powerful commentary on power and competition. An excellent read! I recommend to all as it could be read at any level and would appeal to ages.
August 6, 2017
What a fantastic book and what an incredible film it would make. I couldn't put it down. I can see why there have been comparisons to Harry Potter but there isn't any magic just top of the range technology a bit like James Bond and Q. It can be read in two levels a great adventure story for young adult but some of the questions asked by the young protagonist makes you question leadership, politics and big business in a different way. Truly a book that can be recommended to anyone and indeed I will. Can't wait for the next instalment.
October 27, 2017
Original and fascinating idea.
It's quite easy to read and it will make you think about the concept of leadership. I loved the concept and found the back and forth timeline perfectly suited this story. Great characters.
There are points in the book that have a magical feel to them, yet it's all politics and intrigue
Definitely recommended
It's quite easy to read and it will make you think about the concept of leadership. I loved the concept and found the back and forth timeline perfectly suited this story. Great characters.
There are points in the book that have a magical feel to them, yet it's all politics and intrigue
Definitely recommended
April 9, 2017
Overall, I liked it. I’m a sucker for complex stories that take place in unusual settings, so this fitted me well. Look forward to reading book 2.
June 28, 2018
The Academy Making of a Ruler
Author: C.C Mono
Pages: 338
Synopsis:
Against his reluctance and reservations, Axel is accepted into the prestigious Eagle King's Academy. Along with eleven other students he embarks on a quest to become the most influential and powerful leaders in the world. The academy however isn't as grand as it seems and behind the facade there are secrets, lies and deceit to be discovered. Axel is wise of this and asks too many questions resulting in him becoming caught up in a game of power...
Twelve years earlier, another member was in a situation very similar to Axel's and no one has heard of her since.
Review:
When receiving this book for the very talented C.C Mono, I was unsure what to expect due to not reading a book like this before and had doubts to whether this would be a read I would enjoy. After reading I agree with the author when he says this book is hard to categorise but either way it is a cleverly written book. After reading the blurb I was left feeling intrigued and in slight suspense, I couldn't wait to get stuck in.
I appreciated the short and snappy paragraphs in the book. I found this made the story line flow and the book an easy read including when there was jumps in between the past and present. The jumps were easy and straight forward.
When reading the book I found C.C Mono had written some very powerful and inspirational phrases it is evident that he has a wonderful way of words. I found it quite difficult to connect with most of the characters on an emotional level due to the fact that I genuinely didn't know who to trust and towards the end of the book I became very suspicious of all the characters- again a clever move from the author.
Axel, the male lead however was different from the other characters. From the very start I could tell that he was a genuine good guy. He was bold and outspoken but with good morals which included putting others before himself. Unfortunately for him this didn't work in his favour but I was on his side throughout.
At times reading the Academy it felt very intense therefore the moments of humour were appreciated and welcomed. The use of humour lightened the mood of the book and you could tell that C.C Mono had really considered when to use comedy and when to keep the book serious.
I found the Academy to be very gripping and at times it was difficult to put the book back down, especially at the end.
My anticipation grew as the story built up and all the way through I was expecting something to really kick off but I couldn't put my finger on what that would be. I found though that there was no major event in the book, there was no big climax. There was a huge build up from the beginning but the build up never came, despite this though I was still hooked and left wanting more especially towards the end. I feel this makes the Academy more special because it took me on a journey where I was engaged throughout and right up until the last page left me feeling in suspense and it certainly left me wanting more. This proves that sometimes a lot of drama isn't required to make a book captivating.
Upon finishing the book it was apparent to me how sneaky the Eagle King's Academy was. I was left feeling quite emotional for one of the characters and in fear for Axel. The book finished and left me wanting more- I knew that this story had only just begun. Thankfully the Academy is the first book in the Eagle King's Academy series and fingers crossed I feel that my anticipated story line climax may appear in the next book.
To summarise the Academy is definatley a book that you need to read to really understand and appreciate C.C Mono's brilliant writing technique. It is a gripping book from start to finish and I feel there is more brilliance to follow in his next book. The academy is a serious book- but I did find in places it reminded me of a very grown up and less magical version of Harry Potter.
Author: C.C Mono
Pages: 338
Synopsis:
Against his reluctance and reservations, Axel is accepted into the prestigious Eagle King's Academy. Along with eleven other students he embarks on a quest to become the most influential and powerful leaders in the world. The academy however isn't as grand as it seems and behind the facade there are secrets, lies and deceit to be discovered. Axel is wise of this and asks too many questions resulting in him becoming caught up in a game of power...
Twelve years earlier, another member was in a situation very similar to Axel's and no one has heard of her since.
Review:
When receiving this book for the very talented C.C Mono, I was unsure what to expect due to not reading a book like this before and had doubts to whether this would be a read I would enjoy. After reading I agree with the author when he says this book is hard to categorise but either way it is a cleverly written book. After reading the blurb I was left feeling intrigued and in slight suspense, I couldn't wait to get stuck in.
I appreciated the short and snappy paragraphs in the book. I found this made the story line flow and the book an easy read including when there was jumps in between the past and present. The jumps were easy and straight forward.
When reading the book I found C.C Mono had written some very powerful and inspirational phrases it is evident that he has a wonderful way of words. I found it quite difficult to connect with most of the characters on an emotional level due to the fact that I genuinely didn't know who to trust and towards the end of the book I became very suspicious of all the characters- again a clever move from the author.
Axel, the male lead however was different from the other characters. From the very start I could tell that he was a genuine good guy. He was bold and outspoken but with good morals which included putting others before himself. Unfortunately for him this didn't work in his favour but I was on his side throughout.
At times reading the Academy it felt very intense therefore the moments of humour were appreciated and welcomed. The use of humour lightened the mood of the book and you could tell that C.C Mono had really considered when to use comedy and when to keep the book serious.
I found the Academy to be very gripping and at times it was difficult to put the book back down, especially at the end.
My anticipation grew as the story built up and all the way through I was expecting something to really kick off but I couldn't put my finger on what that would be. I found though that there was no major event in the book, there was no big climax. There was a huge build up from the beginning but the build up never came, despite this though I was still hooked and left wanting more especially towards the end. I feel this makes the Academy more special because it took me on a journey where I was engaged throughout and right up until the last page left me feeling in suspense and it certainly left me wanting more. This proves that sometimes a lot of drama isn't required to make a book captivating.
Upon finishing the book it was apparent to me how sneaky the Eagle King's Academy was. I was left feeling quite emotional for one of the characters and in fear for Axel. The book finished and left me wanting more- I knew that this story had only just begun. Thankfully the Academy is the first book in the Eagle King's Academy series and fingers crossed I feel that my anticipated story line climax may appear in the next book.
To summarise the Academy is definatley a book that you need to read to really understand and appreciate C.C Mono's brilliant writing technique. It is a gripping book from start to finish and I feel there is more brilliance to follow in his next book. The academy is a serious book- but I did find in places it reminded me of a very grown up and less magical version of Harry Potter.
August 16, 2017
A mix of Harry Potter and The Kingsman - elite students are hand picked after rigorous testing and trained to become world leaders; the problem is one of them isn't actually that keen on fulfilling his training and has doubts about The Eagle King's Academy. I enjoyed this book and would read more.
June 2, 2018
I've had this languishing in my kindle for almost a year and have no idea why I haven't read it till now.
What a really engaging, well paced, intelligent story.
I'm against the Harry Potter allusions, the only connection is school which hundreds of books have been about over the decades. To me it's more like a James Bond's megalomaniac training school, think Dr. No for dummies, full of gadgets (oh you card, mysterious Greg!), intrigue, politics and shenanigans, amd some darkish humour.
It's well written and flows well. It kept me turning the page and wanting to keep reading.
The abrupt ending didn't worry me, as I am aware this was a much larger book initially, that's been split, it's just made me want to read the sequel all the more.
As a debut novel it's polished and an excellent read and I'd definitely recommend.
What a really engaging, well paced, intelligent story.
I'm against the Harry Potter allusions, the only connection is school which hundreds of books have been about over the decades. To me it's more like a James Bond's megalomaniac training school, think Dr. No for dummies, full of gadgets (oh you card, mysterious Greg!), intrigue, politics and shenanigans, amd some darkish humour.
It's well written and flows well. It kept me turning the page and wanting to keep reading.
The abrupt ending didn't worry me, as I am aware this was a much larger book initially, that's been split, it's just made me want to read the sequel all the more.
As a debut novel it's polished and an excellent read and I'd definitely recommend.
July 27, 2017
Loved this book - it's a combination of Harry Potter, Malory Towers and Harvard Business School on steroids!!
A little magical, very intriguing and a good insight into people's behaviours. Lots of unanswered questions that hint at more to come.
I particularly liked the main character Axel and looking forward to understanding more about his motivations and challenges ahead.
Really enjoyed it and can't believe I have to wait til next Spring for the second book in the series.
Highly recommended!!!
A little magical, very intriguing and a good insight into people's behaviours. Lots of unanswered questions that hint at more to come.
I particularly liked the main character Axel and looking forward to understanding more about his motivations and challenges ahead.
Really enjoyed it and can't believe I have to wait til next Spring for the second book in the series.
Highly recommended!!!
July 12, 2018
Wow, this is a really intriguing and unusual book, I have never read anything quite like this before.
The premise is that specially selected young people go to The Academy, in order to become leaders. However, there is more to the place than the designer clothes and the amazing settings.
Axel is Swedish, 22, and has applied to join, although at first people wonder what he is doing there. He is a Wildcard applicant, and those particular applicants have more to contend with than most.
I don't even know how to categorise this book really: thriller, dystopian, fantasy....bit of all of those. It is well worth reading, although the ending is a bit abrupt. Lucky I had the next book in the series standing by though :)
4.5 stars.
The premise is that specially selected young people go to The Academy, in order to become leaders. However, there is more to the place than the designer clothes and the amazing settings.
Axel is Swedish, 22, and has applied to join, although at first people wonder what he is doing there. He is a Wildcard applicant, and those particular applicants have more to contend with than most.
I don't even know how to categorise this book really: thriller, dystopian, fantasy....bit of all of those. It is well worth reading, although the ending is a bit abrupt. Lucky I had the next book in the series standing by though :)
4.5 stars.
February 12, 2023
I read this for the first time three years ago, and now after rereading it I just have to give this marvelous book a review.
The Academy has everything. A great mix of different and complex characters as well as a unique and well thought out world and plot. To top it of, the story is fast paced and has some humoristic moments. Loved and enjoyed every single page!
But before picking it up, be ready. Because when you have finished The Academy you will spend loads of time thinking about leadership, manipulation and power - and how it can be used for better and for worse.
The Academy has everything. A great mix of different and complex characters as well as a unique and well thought out world and plot. To top it of, the story is fast paced and has some humoristic moments. Loved and enjoyed every single page!
But before picking it up, be ready. Because when you have finished The Academy you will spend loads of time thinking about leadership, manipulation and power - and how it can be used for better and for worse.
August 11, 2017
Really great start to what will hopefully be a fantastic series
Left on a knife edge
Has been described as a Harry Potter for adults and this is a good comparison. What would happen if you ended up somewhere where you were not really sure you wanted to be? Why can't questions be asked?
Axel is one of the 12 recruits to the Academy from which all leaders are recruited, but what is leadership without humanity, what happened to Sarah and who is watching him?
Left on a knife edge
Has been described as a Harry Potter for adults and this is a good comparison. What would happen if you ended up somewhere where you were not really sure you wanted to be? Why can't questions be asked?
Axel is one of the 12 recruits to the Academy from which all leaders are recruited, but what is leadership without humanity, what happened to Sarah and who is watching him?
May 21, 2019
I enjoyed every minute of this book. The book has so many layers. On top there is a story of a young man entering leadership academy which I must say is brilliantly painted in words throughout the book with many plots and intrigues and I would be surprised if this book will not enter the movies within a few years. When you scratch the surface this is a really interesting book about leadership which I recommend everyone in a leading position to read. I can't wait until the sequel is published.
June 28, 2018
Absolutely fascinating book. It's written beautifully. I loved and devoured each and every word. The characters are so well thought out. I haven't read a book this interesting for a very long time. Gives you food for thought about power and politics. Highly recommend reading it.
March 15, 2023
Well, I thought it was good, but then again, I'm not sure you can call my opinion "objective".
:o)
:o)
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