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Supernatural Academy #1
Freshman Witch
Of course, magic is real. Everybody knows that.
Since it came out on the news that Supernaturals exist, I’ve heard they can do spells, shapeshift, live forever, you name it. Wonderful, right?
Whatever.
In my world—where I’m homeless and spend my time avoiding rats and meth heads—magic sounds like major BS.
But, when I’m accused of stealing and they’re about to arrest me, the item I took disappears from my hand as if by magic. WTF?
Just like that, the Supernatural Academy swoops in and recruits me. But I don’t belong there, and everyone else agrees, including, Rowan Underwood, this rich and annoyingly handsome warlock who has it in for me. He’s investigating the theft of magical artifacts, and he thinks I’m involved.
Seriously? I just got here.
But I can’t worry about that, not while dead kings try to drain my essence or a spell from these angry pixie minotaurs sends my hair follicles into overdrive until I look like Cousin It.
Yet, I can’t avoid Rowan, and while I learn enough magic to stay alive, I also need to keep myself from falling for a guy who’s clearly my worst decision ever.
You’ll love this magical academy book because everyone wants a chance to become who they are truly meant to be.
Get it now.
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 23, 2019
1737 people are currently reading
1281 people want to read
About the author
Ingrid Seymour
110 books961 followersIngrid Seymour is a USA Today Bestselling Author. When she’s not writing books, she spends her time working as a software engineer, cooking exotic recipes, hanging out with her family and working out. She writes young adult and new adult fiction in a variety of genres, including Sci-Fi, urban fantasy, romance, paranormal and horror.
Her favorite outings involve a trip to the library or bookstore where she immediately gravitates toward the YA section. She’s an avid reader and fangirl of many amazing books. She is a dreamer and a fighter who believes perseverance and hard work can make dreams come true.
She lives in Birmingham, AL with her husband, two kids and a cat named Ossie.
Her favorite outings involve a trip to the library or bookstore where she immediately gravitates toward the YA section. She’s an avid reader and fangirl of many amazing books. She is a dreamer and a fighter who believes perseverance and hard work can make dreams come true.
She lives in Birmingham, AL with her husband, two kids and a cat named Ossie.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 154 reviews
June 5, 2019
Weird, but the ending kind of gave me a dash of hope that the next book has the potential to be better.
Supernatural Academy: Freshman Witch was an okay book. It started off in a weird way, orphan girl - wait is she an orphan or just homeless? - let's go back to orphan, well .. she get's kidnapped in a way. Wait, let's call it rescued because she was attacked and lost her best friend - which honestly was a sudden and drastic death and he deserved better than that.
Anyhoo, she goes to this school and then at one point ends up living with her nemesis Rowan. Now he was there the day that her father sort of rescued her and they have had some sexual tension ever since then. There's also this little tidbit of information that he's kind of dying.. and only like two people know about it.
A lot of school happens at this school and then between Rowan and Charlie - not the good kind of busy. This book also gave some mysterious villain and I was kind of going back and forth on two people, and luckily I was sort of close to guessing. Which means I'm a terrible guesser.
Overall, the ending redeem itself and now I feel like I should dive into the next book. Ugh.
Supernatural Academy: Freshman Witch was an okay book. It started off in a weird way, orphan girl - wait is she an orphan or just homeless? - let's go back to orphan, well .. she get's kidnapped in a way. Wait, let's call it rescued because she was attacked and lost her best friend - which honestly was a sudden and drastic death and he deserved better than that.
Anyhoo, she goes to this school and then at one point ends up living with her nemesis Rowan. Now he was there the day that her father sort of rescued her and they have had some sexual tension ever since then. There's also this little tidbit of information that he's kind of dying.. and only like two people know about it.
A lot of school happens at this school and then between Rowan and Charlie - not the good kind of busy. This book also gave some mysterious villain and I was kind of going back and forth on two people, and luckily I was sort of close to guessing. Which means I'm a terrible guesser.
Overall, the ending redeem itself and now I feel like I should dive into the next book. Ugh.
May 21, 2019
Forget what the synopsis says, here's what really happens. Charlie is a homeless girl who unexpectedly begins to have magic. Almost immediately, she is attacked and her best friend is killed. She is "rescued" by Rowan and his father and carted off to the Supernatural Academy. She is given a trial period to decide if she likes it but is essentially dumped there with no resources or help and everyone seems to look down on her. If it wasn't for making friends with Disha, she would still be wearing the same clothes throughout the book. Anyway, it is clear that the school isn't as safe as promised since someone is letting in dangerous creatures and magical artifacts are being stolen, etc. Charlie reluctantly decides to help Rowan and Disha figure out who is behind the danger.
I had a lot of problems with this book, but I also feel a little hooked by the characters. I agree with my friend, Tiera, that it could have had more depth, and in my eyes, there were a lot of ordinary things that happened that didn't make any sense. Perhaps it is 1st book in a series syndrome?
I had a lot of problems with this book, but I also feel a little hooked by the characters. I agree with my friend, Tiera, that it could have had more depth, and in my eyes, there were a lot of ordinary things that happened that didn't make any sense. Perhaps it is 1st book in a series syndrome?
May 16, 2019
I'm not sure why all of a sudden all the Academy Series have started popping up all over my KU recommended feed but I of course jumped right in. This book fell a little short of my expectations. As a whole the story itself and world building in general left a lot to be desired. The blurb really gave more backstory or at least just as much as the whole book. While we are on the subject of the blurb.. It was totally misleading. Let's start with this:
Just like that, the Supernatural Academy swoops in and recruits me. But I don’t belong there, and everyone else agrees..
This is not what happened but besides that.. the everyone else agrees part doesn't make sense. I'm not sure why they agree she doesn't belong because she is obviously supernatural, they seem more concerned with the fact that she was poor and homeless prior than the fact that she doesn't actually belong. Next..
I can’t avoid Rowan, and while I learn enough magic to stay alive, I also need to keep myself from falling for a guy who’s clearly my worst decision ever.
Unfortunately there wasn't any "learn enough magic to stay alive" in reality there was no learning hardly whatsoever and even still the FMC wasn't able to perform any magic other than depantsing herself it seems. The faculty had no interest whatsoever in teaching her anything. Almost everyone was super rude. The FMC herself was naive and childish at times.
So this isn't really what happens.. WHAT DOES HAPPEN is FMC looses childhood best friend to a rogue group attempting to kidnap her and ends up being kidnapped by the academy and being convinced to stay. She is made to feel totally unwanted by almost everyone and all stock is placed on coming from a family with money and nothing is placed on magical ability. FMC is just a bout a complete failure because instead of learning anything she spends most of the time fighting for her life despite a ton of reassurances that she is "safe" here. There is no time to learn anything and despite all these attempts on her life she is drawn to the one dude that goes out of his way to make her feel like absolute crap.. figures. Luckily for her she finds a magic artifact that is never really explained at all that makes her a bad A all of a sudden at which point even more faculty try to kill her.. She never wants to get rid of this artifact though because without it she is bad and doesn't seem to want to "work" to make herself better. So this last statement in the blurb :
You’ll love this magical academy book because everyone wants a chance to become who they are truly meant to be.
Makes no sense whatsoever.. This was in no way the feel of this book. The feel was way more lets become something we are not so that we can be excepted.. and so that one guy who has been a total dick to us will like us....
Other than not being a fan of the FMC, feeling like there wasn't near enough details to explain the plot points and the why of the whole story, the blurb being absolutely misleading kind of killed this series for me. I mean little details here and there like the point of the artifact? Why she even has magic to begin with? Why everyone including staff at the school seems to hate her? Why the artifact even chose her? What war is actually happening here and why? All these would have been super helpful to me. It seems I'm in the minority though when it comes to the reviews so maybe I totally missed something? Maybe its just not my cuppa? I might have to revisit.
Just like that, the Supernatural Academy swoops in and recruits me. But I don’t belong there, and everyone else agrees..
This is not what happened but besides that.. the everyone else agrees part doesn't make sense. I'm not sure why they agree she doesn't belong because she is obviously supernatural, they seem more concerned with the fact that she was poor and homeless prior than the fact that she doesn't actually belong. Next..
I can’t avoid Rowan, and while I learn enough magic to stay alive, I also need to keep myself from falling for a guy who’s clearly my worst decision ever.
Unfortunately there wasn't any "learn enough magic to stay alive" in reality there was no learning hardly whatsoever and even still the FMC wasn't able to perform any magic other than depantsing herself it seems. The faculty had no interest whatsoever in teaching her anything. Almost everyone was super rude. The FMC herself was naive and childish at times.
So this isn't really what happens.. WHAT DOES HAPPEN is FMC looses childhood best friend to a rogue group attempting to kidnap her and ends up being kidnapped by the academy and being convinced to stay. She is made to feel totally unwanted by almost everyone and all stock is placed on coming from a family with money and nothing is placed on magical ability. FMC is just a bout a complete failure because instead of learning anything she spends most of the time fighting for her life despite a ton of reassurances that she is "safe" here. There is no time to learn anything and despite all these attempts on her life she is drawn to the one dude that goes out of his way to make her feel like absolute crap.. figures. Luckily for her she finds a magic artifact that is never really explained at all that makes her a bad A all of a sudden at which point even more faculty try to kill her.. She never wants to get rid of this artifact though because without it she is bad and doesn't seem to want to "work" to make herself better. So this last statement in the blurb :
You’ll love this magical academy book because everyone wants a chance to become who they are truly meant to be.
Makes no sense whatsoever.. This was in no way the feel of this book. The feel was way more lets become something we are not so that we can be excepted.. and so that one guy who has been a total dick to us will like us....
Other than not being a fan of the FMC, feeling like there wasn't near enough details to explain the plot points and the why of the whole story, the blurb being absolutely misleading kind of killed this series for me. I mean little details here and there like the point of the artifact? Why she even has magic to begin with? Why everyone including staff at the school seems to hate her? Why the artifact even chose her? What war is actually happening here and why? All these would have been super helpful to me. It seems I'm in the minority though when it comes to the reviews so maybe I totally missed something? Maybe its just not my cuppa? I might have to revisit.
March 26, 2021
I am so mad. I don't know if I will be able to pick up the sequel right now.
April 20, 2019
I love great YA stories. There are great characters, complex plot and twist'n'turns that will keep readers at the edge of the chair.
Charlie knew there was magic in the world, but that she had it? NEVER! I really liked how her getting into the whole new world was going as it felt like a really nice and well-thought story. There will be lots of confuses there like it should have been. I adored how her relationship with Rowan was going! I wanted to kill him quite a few times and that means something - but read and then see what is behind his attitude.
Rowan - I think he's one of the best YA male main characters I read recently about and he gets better while reading. As I think he's using everything he has as a shield - which is so true while being in his situation.
I hope book 2 will be released SOON as that ending had left me crying out loud! I need Sophomore Witch!
Charlie knew there was magic in the world, but that she had it? NEVER! I really liked how her getting into the whole new world was going as it felt like a really nice and well-thought story. There will be lots of confuses there like it should have been. I adored how her relationship with Rowan was going! I wanted to kill him quite a few times and that means something - but read and then see what is behind his attitude.
Rowan - I think he's one of the best YA male main characters I read recently about and he gets better while reading. As I think he's using everything he has as a shield - which is so true while being in his situation.
I hope book 2 will be released SOON as that ending had left me crying out loud! I need Sophomore Witch!
May 7, 2020
Following the death of her mother and disappearance of her alcoholic father, Charlotte Riviera has been living on the streets along with her friend Trey, to avoid going into foster care. When she falls foul of the law, she inadvertently activates her magic and finds herself targeted by rogue supernaturals known as subversives, who recruit supernaturals like her for nefarious purposes. Tragically her friend Trey, loses his life while trying to protect her before she’s rescued by the Dean of Supernatural Academy, MacGregor Underwood and his son Rowan.
Waking up at the Academy, Charlie is initially defiant and mistrustful of her surroundings as well as those in authority. Eventually she strikes a deal with Head Dean Lynssa McIntosh; to undergo a trial period in which she’ll be under the protection of the Academy and not lack for anything while she learns to control her unpredictable powers. Charlie agrees to stay on a temporary basis.
Before long, Charlie has settled in to her new life at the Academy despite her antagonism towards the Underwoods and even strikes up a friendship with Disha. Charlie comes to realise, however, that the protection she was promised was vastly overrated. There’s danger and mischief afoot at the Academy and suspicion falls on Professor Answorth. When an ancient artefact known as Aidada’s Cuffs chooses Charlie to be their bearer, her life take a drastic turn.
Freshman Witch is the first instalment of the Supernatural Academy series by Ingrid Seymour and Katie French. The book was fast paced and started off interesting enough but I struggled to engage with the plot and secondary characters for some reason. Charlie was an appealing, relatable protagonist and from the offset I felt invested in her story due to her unfortunate childhood and the loss of her friend Trey. Her initial mistrust of those at the academy was completely understandable.
Despite the academic setting, we are only introduced to three students; Georgia (briefly) Rowan and lastly Disha. Their backgrounds were not elaborated on in this instalment although it appears that both characters have their own novellas throughout the series. Rowan was a troubled, introverted individual who the reader will sympathise with due to his estranged relationship with his father as well as a curse that plagues him.
The staff consist of the McIntosh twins who are like chalk and cheese, the stoic and implacable Macgregor Underwood, the charming Professor Henderson and the enigmatic Professor Answorth. In the background we have some vague plot going on in which someone is trying to steal magical artefacts, one of which for reasons unexplained, chooses Charlie to be their bearer.
The world building was interesting in that we have a supernatural caste system that consists of Supers (Witches and Warlocks) Lessers (Other supernaturals) and Regulars ( humans) I’m sure as the series progresses, we’ll learn more about the subservients and the threats they pose.
I received an advanced free audible copy of Freshman Witch which was narrated by Kasi Hollowell. I was impressed by the way she was masterfully able to bring each character to life with their own unique voice, switching effortlessly between characters and accents.
Waking up at the Academy, Charlie is initially defiant and mistrustful of her surroundings as well as those in authority. Eventually she strikes a deal with Head Dean Lynssa McIntosh; to undergo a trial period in which she’ll be under the protection of the Academy and not lack for anything while she learns to control her unpredictable powers. Charlie agrees to stay on a temporary basis.
Before long, Charlie has settled in to her new life at the Academy despite her antagonism towards the Underwoods and even strikes up a friendship with Disha. Charlie comes to realise, however, that the protection she was promised was vastly overrated. There’s danger and mischief afoot at the Academy and suspicion falls on Professor Answorth. When an ancient artefact known as Aidada’s Cuffs chooses Charlie to be their bearer, her life take a drastic turn.
Freshman Witch is the first instalment of the Supernatural Academy series by Ingrid Seymour and Katie French. The book was fast paced and started off interesting enough but I struggled to engage with the plot and secondary characters for some reason. Charlie was an appealing, relatable protagonist and from the offset I felt invested in her story due to her unfortunate childhood and the loss of her friend Trey. Her initial mistrust of those at the academy was completely understandable.
Despite the academic setting, we are only introduced to three students; Georgia (briefly) Rowan and lastly Disha. Their backgrounds were not elaborated on in this instalment although it appears that both characters have their own novellas throughout the series. Rowan was a troubled, introverted individual who the reader will sympathise with due to his estranged relationship with his father as well as a curse that plagues him.
The staff consist of the McIntosh twins who are like chalk and cheese, the stoic and implacable Macgregor Underwood, the charming Professor Henderson and the enigmatic Professor Answorth. In the background we have some vague plot going on in which someone is trying to steal magical artefacts, one of which for reasons unexplained, chooses Charlie to be their bearer.
The world building was interesting in that we have a supernatural caste system that consists of Supers (Witches and Warlocks) Lessers (Other supernaturals) and Regulars ( humans) I’m sure as the series progresses, we’ll learn more about the subservients and the threats they pose.
I received an advanced free audible copy of Freshman Witch which was narrated by Kasi Hollowell. I was impressed by the way she was masterfully able to bring each character to life with their own unique voice, switching effortlessly between characters and accents.
April 23, 2019
Charlie is a dirt-poor street kid, living in a rat-infested run-down building, with her best – and only – friend Trey. Her life is hard – little money, constant hunger and ragged clothes, occasional violence – but so long as she has Trey, it is bearable. Then, when she steps in to help an old woman, everything changes. Trey is gone, and Charlie finds herself dragged into a world of Supernaturals. In particular, she is enrolled in an academy for young witches and warlocks, where – it is promised – Charlie will be safe from the subversive Supernaturals, who want to use her powers for crime, she will be taught how to use her powers safely and she will have a room of her own and plenty to eat. Actually, it is the last two things that persuade her to stay – which is quite fortunate, because the safety aspect of the academy proves to be vastly over-rated. On her first day she is nearly sucked dry by a lich, and the danger increases from that point on.
On the plus side – the room is luxurious, the food good and plentiful, and she meets the wonderful Disha, who adopts Charlie as her BFF. There is also the handsome Rowan Underwood, who helped save Charlie, when she was attacked by the subversives. Charlie really mistrusts Rowan and his father (a Dean at the academy), and refers to Rowan repeatedly as a douche – so you know that Charlie and Rowan will fall in love (because it is that type of book!).
Apart from Disha and Rowan, only one other student in the academy is introduced – and her contribution to the story is important, but very brief. However, the staff members get a lot of page space. All the male staff members are extremely handsome -or as Disha puts it “Easy on the eye”. Her favourite is the charming, young Dr Henderson.
The Supernaturals have a clear caste structure: Supers (Witches and Warlocks) and Lessers (all other Supernaturals). The names say it all. Regulars (i.e. Muggles in Potter-speak) are ignored. When things start to go wrong at the academy, it is the only Lesser, Professor Answorth (a Fae), upon whom the suspicion immediately falls.
Because of her previous experiences of being shunned due to her poverty, Charlie starts the book being very defensive and mistrustful. It is only because Disha is so persistent, that they become friends, and slowly Charlie learns that her prejudices are as unjustifiable as those of others: “With Trey gone, I literally had no one, and it sounded like Disha didn’t either. And how could I fault her for being born into wealth any more than I wanted to be faulted for being born into poverty?”. Likewise, she learns that what she sees in Rowan as arrogance (and douche-ness) is masking physical and psychological pain. All three students develop and mature through the book.
There is a lot in this book that you could compare to ‘Harry Potter’, but this book is written for an older, Young Adult audience. The story has a strong romantic theme, and deals with discrimination (rich vs poor, Super vs Lesser, old vs young, handsome vs plain). The book is well-written, fast-paced and maintains your attention throughout, with some excellent characterisation.
I really enjoyed this book (read it twice), but cannot give it a full five-star rating, as I feel there are some few holes in the plot line, that need a little more explanation. Perhaps the next book in the series (which I am definitely looking forward to) will fill them in. Given that, I can recommend this book as a very enjoyable new addition to the romantic fantasy genre.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at no cost from the authors in exchange for an honest review
On the plus side – the room is luxurious, the food good and plentiful, and she meets the wonderful Disha, who adopts Charlie as her BFF. There is also the handsome Rowan Underwood, who helped save Charlie, when she was attacked by the subversives. Charlie really mistrusts Rowan and his father (a Dean at the academy), and refers to Rowan repeatedly as a douche – so you know that Charlie and Rowan will fall in love (because it is that type of book!).
Apart from Disha and Rowan, only one other student in the academy is introduced – and her contribution to the story is important, but very brief. However, the staff members get a lot of page space. All the male staff members are extremely handsome -or as Disha puts it “Easy on the eye”. Her favourite is the charming, young Dr Henderson.
The Supernaturals have a clear caste structure: Supers (Witches and Warlocks) and Lessers (all other Supernaturals). The names say it all. Regulars (i.e. Muggles in Potter-speak) are ignored. When things start to go wrong at the academy, it is the only Lesser, Professor Answorth (a Fae), upon whom the suspicion immediately falls.
Because of her previous experiences of being shunned due to her poverty, Charlie starts the book being very defensive and mistrustful. It is only because Disha is so persistent, that they become friends, and slowly Charlie learns that her prejudices are as unjustifiable as those of others: “With Trey gone, I literally had no one, and it sounded like Disha didn’t either. And how could I fault her for being born into wealth any more than I wanted to be faulted for being born into poverty?”. Likewise, she learns that what she sees in Rowan as arrogance (and douche-ness) is masking physical and psychological pain. All three students develop and mature through the book.
There is a lot in this book that you could compare to ‘Harry Potter’, but this book is written for an older, Young Adult audience. The story has a strong romantic theme, and deals with discrimination (rich vs poor, Super vs Lesser, old vs young, handsome vs plain). The book is well-written, fast-paced and maintains your attention throughout, with some excellent characterisation.
I really enjoyed this book (read it twice), but cannot give it a full five-star rating, as I feel there are some few holes in the plot line, that need a little more explanation. Perhaps the next book in the series (which I am definitely looking forward to) will fill them in. Given that, I can recommend this book as a very enjoyable new addition to the romantic fantasy genre.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book at no cost from the authors in exchange for an honest review
October 7, 2019
This was an amazing start to the Supernatural Academy series! Charlotte has been homeless since her mother’s death and her father’s alcoholism made him abusive. It’s just her and her best friend Trey against the world trying to survive each day at a time. When a trip to the drugstore goes wrong, her life is turned upside down, and she’s accused of being something that she hates- a supernatural. I absolutely loved Disha, the girl she met on her first day who declared that she would be her best friend. She always says what she’s thinking, is completely blunt, sheltered, and is always there for Charlie no matter what. Rowan is definitely misunderstood, but I enjoyed watching his and Charlie’s relationship develop throughout the book. I liked the categories that people were placed into within this world: Supers (the witches and warlocks), Lessers (every other supernatural being), and Regulars (humans). This book was filled with mystery, magic, drama, and wonderful characters that kept me invested in the story!
Kasi did a fantastic job with this narration! I loved how well she could bring Charlie and Disha’s personalities to life and the distinct voices she gave each character. She hooked me from the start and wouldn’t let me go with her performance!
*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Kasi did a fantastic job with this narration! I loved how well she could bring Charlie and Disha’s personalities to life and the distinct voices she gave each character. She hooked me from the start and wouldn’t let me go with her performance!
*I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
May 21, 2019
Whoa
Awesome adventure series. Charlie thought she was human. Homeless and afraid her magic breaks through for the first time and from there, things quickly go to hell in a hand basket.
This is an awesome story full of action and adventure, heartache and heat. I can't wait for the second one!
Awesome adventure series. Charlie thought she was human. Homeless and afraid her magic breaks through for the first time and from there, things quickly go to hell in a hand basket.
This is an awesome story full of action and adventure, heartache and heat. I can't wait for the second one!
April 24, 2019
Wow, we have suspense, mystery, and more. I feel teens would really get into this book, I know I did and I'm not a teen. We have Charlie who has had a rough life and living on the street with her best friend. Then one day everything goes gets weird and she finds herself at the Academy for witches. Rowen is the a rich warlock with a dad that is horrible. There is something about him that keeps them fighting each other. Then we have Disha who has somehow come my best friend. She is rich and don't know how to take no. I find out I'm a witch, but why is everything happening to me? How can I keep my self alive? How can I protect my friends? Who is doing all of this? I received a free copy for my honest review.
December 22, 2019
This book definitely had some positives. I read the book in two days and Charlie held my interest along with her best friend. I also enjoyed the suspense thrown in there, a wired, weak one but it was a there.
I waited for Rowan and Charlie to move it along but man, we're still waiting to get something. I'm also thinking there is more to what they say happened to Trey. It just read that way to me, anyone, right???? Book #2.
Will I be picking up book #2? Oh that's hard. I did like the ending but, I don't think so...
I waited for Rowan and Charlie to move it along but man, we're still waiting to get something. I'm also thinking there is more to what they say happened to Trey. It just read that way to me, anyone, right???? Book #2.
Will I be picking up book #2? Oh that's hard. I did like the ending but, I don't think so...
June 19, 2019
The story is a bit darker than other academy series and that makes it unique and interesting.
Not sure where the happy end should be and the adults are really a bit over the top. But that adds to the intrigue.
And Charlie is never really rescued, I dare say she could have rescued herself each time and sometimes did exactly that. I wonder who her parents are, it is going to be a huge revelation for sure.
Not sure where the happy end should be and the adults are really a bit over the top. But that adds to the intrigue.
And Charlie is never really rescued, I dare say she could have rescued herself each time and sometimes did exactly that. I wonder who her parents are, it is going to be a huge revelation for sure.
Read
May 25, 2021DNF 70%
I liked the writing style, and after adoring the Mate Tracker series, I thought I'd love this one too. I don't know if it's because I loved the Mate Tracker series so much that I was expecting too much or what, but this one didn't do it for me.
It reminded me a lot of Harry Potter, but without acknowledging Harry Potter, and I think I'm just over the typical magic school setting.
I liked the writing style, and after adoring the Mate Tracker series, I thought I'd love this one too. I don't know if it's because I loved the Mate Tracker series so much that I was expecting too much or what, but this one didn't do it for me.
It reminded me a lot of Harry Potter, but without acknowledging Harry Potter, and I think I'm just over the typical magic school setting.
April 16, 2019
I really enjoyed this book! I love a snarky protagonist and Charlie definitely delivers in that department. It has a lot of similarities to Harry Potter, but I tried to read it more as an homage. I’m looking forward to the sequel!!
September 17, 2019
Enjoyable
Although I found spots throughout the book that was a little slow for me, it's a good story.
It's different with a good cast of characters.
The world building is fun and the storyline is at a good start
Although I found spots throughout the book that was a little slow for me, it's a good story.
It's different with a good cast of characters.
The world building is fun and the storyline is at a good start
Read
April 27, 2020Craziness
This book was a pleasant surprise. It started off weird to me but then picked up. It captured my attention and kept me wanting more. I cannot wait to continue this journey.
This book was a pleasant surprise. It started off weird to me but then picked up. It captured my attention and kept me wanting more. I cannot wait to continue this journey.
Read
May 7, 2019Dnf 64%
June 13, 2019
An Exiting & Deadly Read!!😱💀😢
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
I thoroughly enjoyed this Academy story.
Charlie Rivera is a 17 year old street kid who's magic suddenly 'fractures' because she's faced with a Supernatural Hag that nearly scared the life out of her!!😱 Fracturing only happens in the face of Supernatural danger to people who have no idea they too are magical!🌟✨
Later that day Charlie & her bestie, Trey who are like siblings, are eating a decent-ish meal for a change. They've made their home in an abandoned warehouse, when it starts shaking, windows shattering & walls crumbling. They hear boots stomping up the stairs then 3 supernaturals burst in on them!😳 Charlie is, knocked out & whisked off to an Academy where she's offered training with room & board. All she wants is her home & Trey!!😔
She agrees to stay for a trial period, after all she's still not convinced she's magical.🙈 On her first day she meets Disha. She's rich and gorgeous so Charlie expects her to be a 'mean girl' - she's not, She's as awkward as Charlie herself is & they soon become great friends!👍 It helps lessen missing Trey so much. It becomes clear almost immediately that there is something sinister going on in the background. A couple of near deaths of students, including Charlie, has her freaked out.
Rowan, is hot 🔥 He's been friends with Disha since they were little & he tells them that his Dad, one of the Professors, has him looking into who's stealing magical artefacts. His Dad is a complete magical & monetary snob & looks down on Charlie in a big way😡 Rowan often acts the same way but she also catches him staring at her & Disha is convinced something more is going on with him!!😕
By the end of this book you won't know who to love of hate half the time 🙈😂 I liked that it kept me guessing 👍 On to book #2 🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
(Read using Kindle Unlimited)
I thoroughly enjoyed this Academy story.
Charlie Rivera is a 17 year old street kid who's magic suddenly 'fractures' because she's faced with a Supernatural Hag that nearly scared the life out of her!!😱 Fracturing only happens in the face of Supernatural danger to people who have no idea they too are magical!🌟✨
Later that day Charlie & her bestie, Trey who are like siblings, are eating a decent-ish meal for a change. They've made their home in an abandoned warehouse, when it starts shaking, windows shattering & walls crumbling. They hear boots stomping up the stairs then 3 supernaturals burst in on them!😳 Charlie is, knocked out & whisked off to an Academy where she's offered training with room & board. All she wants is her home & Trey!!😔
She agrees to stay for a trial period, after all she's still not convinced she's magical.🙈 On her first day she meets Disha. She's rich and gorgeous so Charlie expects her to be a 'mean girl' - she's not, She's as awkward as Charlie herself is & they soon become great friends!👍 It helps lessen missing Trey so much. It becomes clear almost immediately that there is something sinister going on in the background. A couple of near deaths of students, including Charlie, has her freaked out.
Rowan, is hot 🔥 He's been friends with Disha since they were little & he tells them that his Dad, one of the Professors, has him looking into who's stealing magical artefacts. His Dad is a complete magical & monetary snob & looks down on Charlie in a big way😡 Rowan often acts the same way but she also catches him staring at her & Disha is convinced something more is going on with him!!😕
By the end of this book you won't know who to love of hate half the time 🙈😂 I liked that it kept me guessing 👍 On to book #2 🌟
Debbie, 1970, UK
September 23, 2024
Edit: This was much better as an audiobook. I syill do think some of the story fell flat. Like none of the main characters are particularly developed. I feel like I don't actually know anything about, Disha, for example. Or why Charlie and the love interest like each other. They didnt...and suddenly they did and I had no idea why.
I did like the mystery, albeit, it wasn't too hard to figure out. I enjoyed the angst and the unknown regarding a certain someone's curse. The ending lrft me intrigued enough to definitely pick up the second book to see how on earth -someone- is going to be able to come back to the academy. Oh, and obvi in it for the romance too. 😉
DNF
I have NO idea what makes this book fall flat. It just did. I recommend it's pa rallel and infinitely better series: Supernatural Academy by Jaymin Eve.
Same plot, orphan, poor, swoony guy, but much better!
I did like the mystery, albeit, it wasn't too hard to figure out. I enjoyed the angst and the unknown regarding a certain someone's curse. The ending lrft me intrigued enough to definitely pick up the second book to see how on earth -someone- is going to be able to come back to the academy. Oh, and obvi in it for the romance too. 😉
DNF
I have NO idea what makes this book fall flat. It just did. I recommend it's pa rallel and infinitely better series: Supernatural Academy by Jaymin Eve.
Same plot, orphan, poor, swoony guy, but much better!
May 18, 2021
Unexpected
Great story with wonderful characters, the paranormals have come out and nothing will ever be the same again. If you liked Harry Potter you will love this, Hogwarts for adults, recommended read, Baz.
Great story with wonderful characters, the paranormals have come out and nothing will ever be the same again. If you liked Harry Potter you will love this, Hogwarts for adults, recommended read, Baz.
August 1, 2024
I was a bit disappointed with this story since I think it could've been so much more. I did finish this book but I DNF'ed the series halfway through book 3 because I was really starting to get annoyed with everything.
The author uses a lot (and I really mean, A LOT) of 'tell, don't show'. Weeks or even months would go by with just a sentence and quite often you also read about things that happened instead of actually experiencing them with the MC. This makes for a bit of a fractured story where you feel like you can't really get more into it because you're missing emotions and closeness with the characters.
This brings me to my next point, the characters... They're... Weird. I really don't have another word to describe them. They all miss a bit of something that makes them human I guess. The MC comes from a bad life and even used to live on the street. Still, a few chapters in this doesn't seem to bother her anymore. No trauma's, no flashbacks, barely any mentions of her parents or her life before.
All of the characters, even the MC, you don't really get to know past the surface. You don't know what drives them, what makes them tick, what they want, what they're scared of, what makes them, well... them.
For those who (like me) picked up this book with the idea that it'd be a paranormal romance... Yeah, just give up on that idea. Charlie does fall in love with Rowan but you don't really figure out why since Rowan does almost nothing else than being an absolute ass. And at first you think this is because of the . But then you find out that without this, he's just an ass as well.
The second book is even worse and the very (VERY) spare moments where there's any tenderness can be counted on one hand, probably even on 2 fingers.
Building friendships also is a bit foreign to the author it seems. The way that Charlie meets Disha is by Disha literally deciding she will be her new BFF. Why? Who does that?
Later on they meet Bobby and his sister... I can't remember her name anymore but she's even more socially stunted than Disha. For some reason they all want to be friends with Charlie.
The rest of the students you don't really read much (if anything) about. You don't experience lessons, you don't know any more names or people that are in the school.
Also, talking about the school, when they're trying to get Charlie to join it feels like they have a reason why they want as many students as they can. But you don't find out why this is or if there is any logic to this at all. I'm also very lost on if there's any authorities. Because with all the things going on at the school, it seems very wild to me that the person who actually figures out and fixes most things is a first-year student without any experience.
This series really left me just feeling empty and disappointed.
The author uses a lot (and I really mean, A LOT) of 'tell, don't show'. Weeks or even months would go by with just a sentence and quite often you also read about things that happened instead of actually experiencing them with the MC. This makes for a bit of a fractured story where you feel like you can't really get more into it because you're missing emotions and closeness with the characters.
This brings me to my next point, the characters... They're... Weird. I really don't have another word to describe them. They all miss a bit of something that makes them human I guess. The MC comes from a bad life and even used to live on the street. Still, a few chapters in this doesn't seem to bother her anymore. No trauma's, no flashbacks, barely any mentions of her parents or her life before.
All of the characters, even the MC, you don't really get to know past the surface. You don't know what drives them, what makes them tick, what they want, what they're scared of, what makes them, well... them.
For those who (like me) picked up this book with the idea that it'd be a paranormal romance... Yeah, just give up on that idea. Charlie does fall in love with Rowan but you don't really figure out why since Rowan does almost nothing else than being an absolute ass. And at first you think this is because of the . But then you find out that without this, he's just an ass as well.
The second book is even worse and the very (VERY) spare moments where there's any tenderness can be counted on one hand, probably even on 2 fingers.
Building friendships also is a bit foreign to the author it seems. The way that Charlie meets Disha is by Disha literally deciding she will be her new BFF. Why? Who does that?
Later on they meet Bobby and his sister... I can't remember her name anymore but she's even more socially stunted than Disha. For some reason they all want to be friends with Charlie.
The rest of the students you don't really read much (if anything) about. You don't experience lessons, you don't know any more names or people that are in the school.
Also, talking about the school, when they're trying to get Charlie to join it feels like they have a reason why they want as many students as they can. But you don't find out why this is or if there is any logic to this at all. I'm also very lost on if there's any authorities. Because with all the things going on at the school, it seems very wild to me that the person who actually figures out and fixes most things is a first-year student without any experience.
This series really left me just feeling empty and disappointed.
October 14, 2019
(Narrator did a perfect job on the audiobook version!)
Story started off different than I thought it would. But even though this isn’t quite what I expected, I do love the storyline.
In a world where supernatural creatures no longer live in hiding but aren’t too common either, homeless Charlie ends up at the Academy after some tragic events has ripped her of her only friend -and home- she has ever known.
When things escalated one day, she ended up fleeing and “Fracturing”, which means that a piece of her dormant and repressed magic had jolted to life, sort of speak. And although she might have brushed the event off as something weird that her mind had made up under the stress of it all, two parties knew better and hunted her. The first group was rather violent and impatient, wanted this done “before the Academy arrives”, resulting in the death of Charlies only friend. Amidst all that, she was rescued and taken by a second group, the Academy. And so, she ended up at the Academy. I’m guessing that encounter with the first group is a foundation stone for a storyline for book 2 because that group never came into play again. Curious to see what book 2 will bring because, of course, that group has been mentioned and been taking people for a reason. And I’m also very curious for the reason behind the rather epic tantrum in this book, hoping that’s explained in book 2 as well!
But anyway, since she has no home or a (best) friend anymore, she ends up staying at that Academy. Despite getting all sorts of hostile looks and comments from the guy that rescued her, Rowan, she becomes friends with Disha, who seems to be Rowan’ closest friend. Of course.
There is something strange going on in the Academy, someone is stealing certain artifacts and creating dangerous situations on the Academy grounds and Rowan has been ordered by his father, a not so fatherly faculty member, to get to the bottom of what is going on, whoever is responsible for all the things gone bad and why they’re doing what they’re doing, hence, the hostility towards Charlie, because he’s convinced she can’t be trusted, been brought to the school on such a suspicious time.
So this book is a mix of a girl getting to know a new world and a new version of herself, a lovely genuine friend that takes said girl under her wings, a boy searching for the culprit of a theft and other things, some danger that adds more suspense to the story and all the other Academy things such as other students, a glimpse of classes (of course, some are magical in this one!), teachers and some more danger and the consequences of all those events escalating into one captivating story that doesn’t end in a huge cliffhanger but a cliffhanger nontheless. It was nice to have the first chapter of book 2 but that just leaves you wanting more. Well, it leaves me wanting more at least.
Story started off different than I thought it would. But even though this isn’t quite what I expected, I do love the storyline.
In a world where supernatural creatures no longer live in hiding but aren’t too common either, homeless Charlie ends up at the Academy after some tragic events has ripped her of her only friend -and home- she has ever known.
When things escalated one day, she ended up fleeing and “Fracturing”, which means that a piece of her dormant and repressed magic had jolted to life, sort of speak. And although she might have brushed the event off as something weird that her mind had made up under the stress of it all, two parties knew better and hunted her. The first group was rather violent and impatient, wanted this done “before the Academy arrives”, resulting in the death of Charlies only friend. Amidst all that, she was rescued and taken by a second group, the Academy. And so, she ended up at the Academy. I’m guessing that encounter with the first group is a foundation stone for a storyline for book 2 because that group never came into play again. Curious to see what book 2 will bring because, of course, that group has been mentioned and been taking people for a reason. And I’m also very curious for the reason behind the rather epic tantrum in this book, hoping that’s explained in book 2 as well!
But anyway, since she has no home or a (best) friend anymore, she ends up staying at that Academy. Despite getting all sorts of hostile looks and comments from the guy that rescued her, Rowan, she becomes friends with Disha, who seems to be Rowan’ closest friend. Of course.
There is something strange going on in the Academy, someone is stealing certain artifacts and creating dangerous situations on the Academy grounds and Rowan has been ordered by his father, a not so fatherly faculty member, to get to the bottom of what is going on, whoever is responsible for all the things gone bad and why they’re doing what they’re doing, hence, the hostility towards Charlie, because he’s convinced she can’t be trusted, been brought to the school on such a suspicious time.
So this book is a mix of a girl getting to know a new world and a new version of herself, a lovely genuine friend that takes said girl under her wings, a boy searching for the culprit of a theft and other things, some danger that adds more suspense to the story and all the other Academy things such as other students, a glimpse of classes (of course, some are magical in this one!), teachers and some more danger and the consequences of all those events escalating into one captivating story that doesn’t end in a huge cliffhanger but a cliffhanger nontheless. It was nice to have the first chapter of book 2 but that just leaves you wanting more. Well, it leaves me wanting more at least.
July 5, 2019
This book is yet another example of how a story and a heroine can be ruined by trying to force a romance as a central theme when it just isnt there.
I understand this is YA fantasy and romance is as important to the theme as fantasy is, but Ingrid's story was going so good that I wish she didnt force the romance bit so much.
The story started all good.
Charlie is a lovable runaway who finds out about magic.
She meets Disha and Rowan at her new magic academy and there is villainy afoot.
People are getting attacked and Charlie just got herself a super powerful magic cuff which is something coveted by the villains.
Meanwhile she discovers Rowan is dying from a curse (happened before she met him) and she tries using her magic to save him.
All good so far.
What ruined the whole thing is how little chemistry is there actually between Rowan and Charlie.
Rowan behaves rudely to Charlie and throughout the story, the attraction she feels for him is just physical. There are no interesting encounters, nothing to show a passion that builds.
Its just like a lot of similar YA stories - guy hot, girl hot BANG, LOVE (its actually Lust but lets just pretend both are same).
Most of the time is spend with Rowan running from Charlie and Charlie chasing after or obsessing after Rowan. She tries to tell herself that she is not the kinda girl to throw it all away for a guy and towards the end, she just becomes exactly that sorta girl.
I think that is what bugs me the most.
A story that started so interesting about magic and a new world and a nice friendship, quickly descended into 'lets hitch up the hot kids together'.
Rowan is not a hero or even an antihero.
He appears throughout as a weak willed guy and shows no particular affection or care towards Charlie. Charlie is portrayed as a strong girl in so many ways that it bugs you to see her drooling after a guy who is so just into himself.
Then there are these whole other magical law enforcement people who are apparently super inefficient. Adults who just cant do anything useful. And usual stupidly heroic actions from our heroine which somehow is expected to show her up as awesome (didnt work at all!)
Overall - not interested in the follow up.
I understand this is YA fantasy and romance is as important to the theme as fantasy is, but Ingrid's story was going so good that I wish she didnt force the romance bit so much.
The story started all good.
Charlie is a lovable runaway who finds out about magic.
She meets Disha and Rowan at her new magic academy and there is villainy afoot.
People are getting attacked and Charlie just got herself a super powerful magic cuff which is something coveted by the villains.
Meanwhile she discovers Rowan is dying from a curse (happened before she met him) and she tries using her magic to save him.
All good so far.
What ruined the whole thing is how little chemistry is there actually between Rowan and Charlie.
Rowan behaves rudely to Charlie and throughout the story, the attraction she feels for him is just physical. There are no interesting encounters, nothing to show a passion that builds.
Its just like a lot of similar YA stories - guy hot, girl hot BANG, LOVE (its actually Lust but lets just pretend both are same).
Most of the time is spend with Rowan running from Charlie and Charlie chasing after or obsessing after Rowan. She tries to tell herself that she is not the kinda girl to throw it all away for a guy and towards the end, she just becomes exactly that sorta girl.
I think that is what bugs me the most.
A story that started so interesting about magic and a new world and a nice friendship, quickly descended into 'lets hitch up the hot kids together'.
Rowan is not a hero or even an antihero.
He appears throughout as a weak willed guy and shows no particular affection or care towards Charlie. Charlie is portrayed as a strong girl in so many ways that it bugs you to see her drooling after a guy who is so just into himself.
Then there are these whole other magical law enforcement people who are apparently super inefficient. Adults who just cant do anything useful. And usual stupidly heroic actions from our heroine which somehow is expected to show her up as awesome (didnt work at all!)
Overall - not interested in the follow up.
August 19, 2019
Very generously giving this 3 stars.
I don't know, so many things going on with this book that I'm not sure even how to review it. The flow was incredibly slow, I thought I was never going to get done. Every time I checked my progress, I had barely gone further than the last time I checked. The slowness of the story almost had me quitting the book as a whole.
Overall, Charlie was likable as a main character, she wasn't perfect, but not off-putting. Though the distraction of the chemistry for Rowan was disappointing. This was not a romance- at all. Rowan was not likable, he was not personable & felt like a weak link for adding romance into the story, not that it was romance. He's the type of Hero in a book that turns me off & ruins stories for me. To be quite honest, Rowan should have been killed off instead of Charlie's homeless friend at the beginning of the book.
The magic learning at an academy -for Charlie, felt minimal, in fact the whole school atmosphere felt like a prop, just "background" for the story in general. If you are going to use the academy trope, it needs more than a few mentions of going to certain classes, or living in a dorm, or the people being mean or bullying to the main character, to accomplish that true academy feel for a story. I felt the author really dropped the ball on that part of the story, but added a lot of repetitive stuff that really didn't add to the story. I also felt there were a lot of points that were glossed over or not explained well or at all, in the story, that hurt the overall reading for me. I still don't understand a lot of what happened by the end of book 1, that should have been explained better -that had nothing to do with the ending of the book. Like the language used by/for the magical community (one example -"lesser"- was used almost interchangeably, that I really didn't understand the intended meaning. Was it for people who were born human but developed magic, or for supes with barely any magic, or just for lower class magical beings/families?)
So, the experience I had with this book, NO- I won't continue on with the series, it didn't create any desire for me to want to see what happens to Charlie & Rowan in the next book.
I don't know, so many things going on with this book that I'm not sure even how to review it. The flow was incredibly slow, I thought I was never going to get done. Every time I checked my progress, I had barely gone further than the last time I checked. The slowness of the story almost had me quitting the book as a whole.
Overall, Charlie was likable as a main character, she wasn't perfect, but not off-putting. Though the distraction of the chemistry for Rowan was disappointing. This was not a romance- at all. Rowan was not likable, he was not personable & felt like a weak link for adding romance into the story, not that it was romance. He's the type of Hero in a book that turns me off & ruins stories for me. To be quite honest, Rowan should have been killed off instead of Charlie's homeless friend at the beginning of the book.
The magic learning at an academy -for Charlie, felt minimal, in fact the whole school atmosphere felt like a prop, just "background" for the story in general. If you are going to use the academy trope, it needs more than a few mentions of going to certain classes, or living in a dorm, or the people being mean or bullying to the main character, to accomplish that true academy feel for a story. I felt the author really dropped the ball on that part of the story, but added a lot of repetitive stuff that really didn't add to the story. I also felt there were a lot of points that were glossed over or not explained well or at all, in the story, that hurt the overall reading for me. I still don't understand a lot of what happened by the end of book 1, that should have been explained better -that had nothing to do with the ending of the book. Like the language used by/for the magical community (one example -"lesser"- was used almost interchangeably, that I really didn't understand the intended meaning. Was it for people who were born human but developed magic, or for supes with barely any magic, or just for lower class magical beings/families?)
So, the experience I had with this book, NO- I won't continue on with the series, it didn't create any desire for me to want to see what happens to Charlie & Rowan in the next book.
April 22, 2019
Exhilarating & invigorating !! A firecracker of a start to a thriller series full of Intrigue, Mystery & Magic. Ingrid Seymour & Katie French have produced another Energising new series that will keep your heart racing from the very first chapter. A sad start leads to Charlie being forced into a hidden world she doesn’t want or fit. My heart went out to this character, she was overcome with grief, something they overlooked. Her immediate thoughts went from “I’m getting out of here” to “try and get me out !!” She not only faced prejudice for how she appeared, but also for her low level of talent. However this is a girl from the streets with an abundance of bravery who wants revenge. Immediately she gets entrapped into the intrigue of solving one of the academy’s greatest threats. Resulting in having one of the biggest magical artefacts forced upon her. Now the threat is towards her life. They think she is reckless, she can only think of the one person who gives her the butterflies, but he hates her right? However as in life, never judge a book by its cover, as they may hold more secrets, more lies, more death and more life. Charlie experiences it all with a shocking ending that results in a silent scream. This is one series that I will definitely be waiting in anticipation for the next book to come. Ingrid Seymour & Katie French are exceptional authors in their own right. However put them together & they not only write storylines, they live & breathe them. I can imagine both of them trying to levitate or fight things not of this world, then letting us in on their adventures. Freshman’s Witch is definitely a read for anyone who loves fantasy, magic, mystery and an abundance of limitless imaginations
May 18, 2019
I received an advance review copy from the authors.
Wow. That was a ride. This was one of those books that kind of sucks you in no matter what. I went into this book interested to see what it would bring, but also wary, because it had the potential to flop miserably (I’ve been burned before). And after a rocky start, I found myself completely absorbed in the world and the story, to the point where I didn’t realise how much time had passed until I put it down (and that hasn’t happened in ages). That being said, there were a couple of elements that didn’t sit well with me.
The first was the level of explanation at the start. Barely 100 words in and already the reader is greeted with the explanation part of the story. That’s not enough time for anything to have really happened, and often the quickest way to disengage someone from the story. It wasn’t a huge ‘info dump’ explanation though, and the rest are scattered, so this was only a minor thing for me. My real issue was with the characters. I didn’t really find any of them particularly likeable. Granted, some of them were written that way, but not having even one character that I really liked made it hard to be invested in them. I was invested in the story, but less so in the fates of the characters.
Looking back, I can’t really pinpoint what it was about Freshman Witch that was so absorbing. Maybe it’s because it’s about a magic school, and that trope never gets old. Maybe its because the overarching plot was so intriguing, I could look past the little things that bothered me. Maybe the authors are just amazing writers (that’s not a maybe, that’s a definite). Whatever it was, I certainly enjoyed myself far more than I thought I would, and am definitely looking forward to book two.
Wow. That was a ride. This was one of those books that kind of sucks you in no matter what. I went into this book interested to see what it would bring, but also wary, because it had the potential to flop miserably (I’ve been burned before). And after a rocky start, I found myself completely absorbed in the world and the story, to the point where I didn’t realise how much time had passed until I put it down (and that hasn’t happened in ages). That being said, there were a couple of elements that didn’t sit well with me.
The first was the level of explanation at the start. Barely 100 words in and already the reader is greeted with the explanation part of the story. That’s not enough time for anything to have really happened, and often the quickest way to disengage someone from the story. It wasn’t a huge ‘info dump’ explanation though, and the rest are scattered, so this was only a minor thing for me. My real issue was with the characters. I didn’t really find any of them particularly likeable. Granted, some of them were written that way, but not having even one character that I really liked made it hard to be invested in them. I was invested in the story, but less so in the fates of the characters.
Looking back, I can’t really pinpoint what it was about Freshman Witch that was so absorbing. Maybe it’s because it’s about a magic school, and that trope never gets old. Maybe its because the overarching plot was so intriguing, I could look past the little things that bothered me. Maybe the authors are just amazing writers (that’s not a maybe, that’s a definite). Whatever it was, I certainly enjoyed myself far more than I thought I would, and am definitely looking forward to book two.
October 22, 2019
YA/ PNR (the romance is lacking if that’s your thing).
My feelings are up in the air about this book. YA is not typically my genre of choice anymore now that I’m older (30), but since the mc was college age I thought I could still relate (so read this review keeping that in mind). The book itself had very few typing errors and overall flowed without huge plot holes.
My main issue was the plot itself. Disha was a great female side character, but the rest were completely blah- including main male lead. Why would I even think the “couple” of the book even like each other? There is zero tension because it was told to us a million times it existed but never written about. The whole book was them ignoring each other. The Villain plot was cliche and I saw it a mile away. The main character supposedly has this great thing midway through the book but I felt like it acted way too much as a dues ex machina without actually doing much. I’m not sure where the disconnect is with me and this story. I was pumped to read it but after I finished it last night I felt like I had wasted my time on a book. I won’t be reading the rest... again it could also be that I’m not longer the target audience anymore, but I need more actual romance, description, magic that isn’t hand waving and has true purpose/ rules and true character development to be content with this story.
My feelings are up in the air about this book. YA is not typically my genre of choice anymore now that I’m older (30), but since the mc was college age I thought I could still relate (so read this review keeping that in mind). The book itself had very few typing errors and overall flowed without huge plot holes.
My main issue was the plot itself. Disha was a great female side character, but the rest were completely blah- including main male lead. Why would I even think the “couple” of the book even like each other? There is zero tension because it was told to us a million times it existed but never written about. The whole book was them ignoring each other. The Villain plot was cliche and I saw it a mile away. The main character supposedly has this great thing midway through the book but I felt like it acted way too much as a dues ex machina without actually doing much. I’m not sure where the disconnect is with me and this story. I was pumped to read it but after I finished it last night I felt like I had wasted my time on a book. I won’t be reading the rest... again it could also be that I’m not longer the target audience anymore, but I need more actual romance, description, magic that isn’t hand waving and has true purpose/ rules and true character development to be content with this story.
February 3, 2021
So, first. The story itself was worth 5 stars. However, the driving force behind the downgrade - An all beautiful cast. Not just slightly beautiful, mentioned once or twice. But near every single time someone was mentioned (that was not the MC), they were bug eyed, super markedly beautiful. Sigh. BUT! Beyond that, Charlie was super hilarious most of the time. She is a typical teenager. All sass and sarcasm and impulse. But she has a serious loyalty to her friends as well. Disha is another most amusing person. She is also fiercely loyal and a bit ditzy at times. But I like her. Rowan is a moody, driven boy. Driven mostly by his father - a douche. But he seems to have his own drive too. It just doesn't matter to his father that he does. The other characters here, I don't have an opinion of right now as they are only in for bits at a time. Except the villain. They are definitely a nasty piece of work. The best part about it - I didn't have a clue until the last few chapters of the book as to who it was!
Anyway - pretty great read. World was very much limited to the school, but descriptive enough that I could imagine it quite nicely. I will continue this series as I need to know how Charlie, Disha and Rowan get through the events at the end of the book. And because, like I said, it was a pretty great story all in all.
Anyway - pretty great read. World was very much limited to the school, but descriptive enough that I could imagine it quite nicely. I will continue this series as I need to know how Charlie, Disha and Rowan get through the events at the end of the book. And because, like I said, it was a pretty great story all in all.
May 12, 2019
I’ve consistently enjoyed everything I’ve read by Ingrid Seymour so it’s no shocker that, when I learned she’d started a new series with Katie French, I rushed to get it. That new series is Supernatural Academy, the first book of which is Freshman Witch. Every Tom / Thomisina, Dick / Rikki and Harry / Harriet seemingly putting out a magical academy series these dats I might have skipped this one if I hadn’t known one of the author’s. That would have been a real loss as this first book is excellent, primarily because it’s lead, Charlie, is so perfectly crafted and fun to follow along as she takes in everything in her surprising trip from the streets to the academy. Add in really wonderful world-building and a superb supporting cast (watch this space: Charlie and Rowan are going to get more and more interesting as the series goes on) and the result is a total winner. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises. The book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and it is easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.
May 21, 2019
Charlie was just a regular homeless youth, doing her best to survive together with her friend. Until she was attacked and by a miracle ended up in a Supernatural Academy - the outsider, poor kid, outcast. Thank goodness for cool chicks who also don't feel like fitting in, and mr. tall dark handsome (and moody)- they make it at least bearable. However, it does not remove the danger.
Aside from some minor issues and desire for more development in some areas, the book was good. A quick read, with surprises thrown along the main storyline, mixed with some mystery to make it more suspenseful. Relaxing and not very demanding read, for pure entertainment, occasionally stirring some deeper thought processes if you found a parallel to the reality you live in. Teens are perfect material for certain type of main characters, and the authors have played with their personalities changing and growing as they faced one challenge after another, making them more defined with each progress, each obstacle. I liked the book and after the cliffhanger end, I would be really interested in reading the next book.
Aside from some minor issues and desire for more development in some areas, the book was good. A quick read, with surprises thrown along the main storyline, mixed with some mystery to make it more suspenseful. Relaxing and not very demanding read, for pure entertainment, occasionally stirring some deeper thought processes if you found a parallel to the reality you live in. Teens are perfect material for certain type of main characters, and the authors have played with their personalities changing and growing as they faced one challenge after another, making them more defined with each progress, each obstacle. I liked the book and after the cliffhanger end, I would be really interested in reading the next book.
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