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Grimmstead Academy #1
A Villainous Introduction
When offered a position at the obscure Grimmstead Academy, I jump on it. It’s not that I’m running from my past, it’s just…well, some things are better left forgotten.
An academy for lost souls and criminals? Not exactly what I signed up for, but as I’m about to learn, once you step within the halls of Grimmstead, you can never leave. As the days wear on, I find out that no one is innocent here. Not me, not the ruggedly attractive headmaster, and certainly not its dangerous, handsome students.
Me coming to Grimmstead was like a lamb running into a den of lions, only these lions are just as likely to attack each other as they are me. Mysteries lie within the heart of Grimmstead Academy, and I just might be the key to it all.
The walls of Grimmstead are painted with three things.
Depravity.
Insanity.
And blood.
If you can’t trust your own mind, who can you trust?
GA: A Villainous Introduction is the first book in a planned RH trilogy. There is graphic violence in this book, along with steamy scenes.
An academy for lost souls and criminals? Not exactly what I signed up for, but as I’m about to learn, once you step within the halls of Grimmstead, you can never leave. As the days wear on, I find out that no one is innocent here. Not me, not the ruggedly attractive headmaster, and certainly not its dangerous, handsome students.
Me coming to Grimmstead was like a lamb running into a den of lions, only these lions are just as likely to attack each other as they are me. Mysteries lie within the heart of Grimmstead Academy, and I just might be the key to it all.
The walls of Grimmstead are painted with three things.
Depravity.
Insanity.
And blood.
If you can’t trust your own mind, who can you trust?
GA: A Villainous Introduction is the first book in a planned RH trilogy. There is graphic violence in this book, along with steamy scenes.
283 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 25, 2020
434 people are currently reading
934 people want to read
About the author
Candace Wondrak
116 books1,845 followersHey guys! I'm a writer, an office worker, a wife, a mother to two dogs and two cats, and half of a strange pair of young adults who flip the houses they're living in with the goal of having no mortgage (so that I can eventually focus on my writing career!). Needless to say, I'm busy.
Still, I somehow find time to write, to read, and to enjoy life. Wish there were more hours in the day, really!
If you're active on Goodreads and have similar interests, friend me. I don't bite. Or if you'd rather follow my reviews, you can do that, too.
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Still, I somehow find time to write, to read, and to enjoy life. Wish there were more hours in the day, really!
If you're active on Goodreads and have similar interests, friend me. I don't bite. Or if you'd rather follow my reviews, you can do that, too.
Happy reading!
Link to newsletter: http://eepurl.com/dppf_v
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
February 10, 2020
Not very cohesive start to this series. I will give this book credit for an original premise and a new take on academy: what if the academy itself was evil and not necessarily the creatures within (ok, we come to find out those dudes are also f*cked up too)?
It’s as if the author was going for some sort of horror-suspense vibe mixed in with the typical RH academy trope, but it was poorly paced and too scattered to maintain my attention. I kept snagging on little bits like a scene at the outset (~15% in) when the Mc wanders into one of the character’s rooms. She finds old books on the bookshelf and muses about touching them. “I’ve never touched books older than me before,” she says with wonder.
She’s 20 years old.
She’s never touched a 20+ year old book?!?
I have a pair of Chacos i bought in high school that are older than that. Hell...I have shelves of thrift store books and records that are 30-50 years old at least. So...this comment made me bark with laughter unintentionally. Felicia with the banging body and hot tits is dumb as rocks. ...and evidently a pyromaniac, I guess?
There are so many little asinine thoughts spewed by Felicia, and this highlights the books biggest problem. Most of it is in her head. Like...90% of this book is description or internal monologue. Crap, it’s so boring to be in a clueless 20 year old’s head. I didn’t like any of the guys, and there is a particularly cringy sex scene with one that feels unconsensual...definitely clinical (she hops on top and the guy says “this is wrong”—doesn’t push her off —keeps his hands to the side and motionless—and she just goes to town anyway). We may be asked to put the pieces together about that character's state of mind, but since are seeing it through the MC's eyes, it seems like she's doing it regardless...because she's meant to be embracing her "dark side." It made me feel weird and just, yuck. Sorry.
Ok, now that I’m writing all this out I might take my rating down to 2. It really was not a great book and i wouldn’t recommend it.
It’s as if the author was going for some sort of horror-suspense vibe mixed in with the typical RH academy trope, but it was poorly paced and too scattered to maintain my attention. I kept snagging on little bits like a scene at the outset (~15% in) when the Mc wanders into one of the character’s rooms. She finds old books on the bookshelf and muses about touching them. “I’ve never touched books older than me before,” she says with wonder.
She’s 20 years old.
She’s never touched a 20+ year old book?!?
I have a pair of Chacos i bought in high school that are older than that. Hell...I have shelves of thrift store books and records that are 30-50 years old at least. So...this comment made me bark with laughter unintentionally. Felicia with the banging body and hot tits is dumb as rocks. ...and evidently a pyromaniac, I guess?
There are so many little asinine thoughts spewed by Felicia, and this highlights the books biggest problem. Most of it is in her head. Like...90% of this book is description or internal monologue. Crap, it’s so boring to be in a clueless 20 year old’s head. I didn’t like any of the guys, and there is a particularly cringy sex scene with one that feels unconsensual...definitely clinical (she hops on top and the guy says “this is wrong”—doesn’t push her off —keeps his hands to the side and motionless—and she just goes to town anyway). We may be asked to put the pieces together about that character's state of mind, but since are seeing it through the MC's eyes, it seems like she's doing it regardless...because she's meant to be embracing her "dark side." It made me feel weird and just, yuck. Sorry.
Ok, now that I’m writing all this out I might take my rating down to 2. It really was not a great book and i wouldn’t recommend it.
February 8, 2020
**Warning: this text may contain spoilers** Phenomenal and mind blowing!
Excellent introduction to what is bound to be a mind blowing trilogy! Wondrak is one of the few authors that never lets me down. There were no teachers and students, so not sure why this is an academy. I guess we will find out.
Definitely looking forward to reading the next book! I LOVED THIS SO MUCH! I wish Wondrak was a full time author, because I am dreading the wait, lol.
The characters were kinda insane and it's not apparent how or who sent Felice the letter offering employment. When she arrives, she meets Lucien Grimmstead. She meets Payne, Ian, Dagan, and Koda...then later meets Bram and Victor Grimmstead at the end of the book.
Spoilers and speculation!
The house is an entity that changes.
It is mentioned that maybe if you die in the house, you get stuck... maybe sorta like American Horror Story? So maybe they aren't dead, just not really alive either? I hope that's the case. I got attached to all of them!
Ian is vain and keeps finding a photo of him being aged and it scares him.
Dagen hears a constant thumping noise and is super paranoid.
Payne is obsessed with blood, maybe purely for scientific purposes but he does write and draw with it.
Koda has a kind of split personality or fights with the demon on his shoulder that can take control of him and cause mass chaos and death.
Lucien is the leader I guess who loves to punish them when they break rules, it's said...but the side we see is loyal and protective of Felice and maybe he's been in love with her for a very long time?
It is an amazing read and has a gothic feel to it... sorta like Penny Dreadful or something. I just loved it so much!
How long have they been there? How are they all tied together with this house? Is Felice supposed to somehow help them get free of the house? Or is she now stuck there too? What is that house?
Go read it!!
Excellent introduction to what is bound to be a mind blowing trilogy! Wondrak is one of the few authors that never lets me down. There were no teachers and students, so not sure why this is an academy. I guess we will find out.
Definitely looking forward to reading the next book! I LOVED THIS SO MUCH! I wish Wondrak was a full time author, because I am dreading the wait, lol.
The characters were kinda insane and it's not apparent how or who sent Felice the letter offering employment. When she arrives, she meets Lucien Grimmstead. She meets Payne, Ian, Dagan, and Koda...then later meets Bram and Victor Grimmstead at the end of the book.
Spoilers and speculation!
The house is an entity that changes.
It is mentioned that maybe if you die in the house, you get stuck... maybe sorta like American Horror Story? So maybe they aren't dead, just not really alive either? I hope that's the case. I got attached to all of them!
Ian is vain and keeps finding a photo of him being aged and it scares him.
Dagen hears a constant thumping noise and is super paranoid.
Payne is obsessed with blood, maybe purely for scientific purposes but he does write and draw with it.
Koda has a kind of split personality or fights with the demon on his shoulder that can take control of him and cause mass chaos and death.
Lucien is the leader I guess who loves to punish them when they break rules, it's said...but the side we see is loyal and protective of Felice and maybe he's been in love with her for a very long time?
It is an amazing read and has a gothic feel to it... sorta like Penny Dreadful or something. I just loved it so much!
How long have they been there? How are they all tied together with this house? Is Felice supposed to somehow help them get free of the house? Or is she now stuck there too? What is that house?
Go read it!!
February 3, 2020
Candace Wondrak has become a one-click author for me! I've been loving all her latest books she's been putting out & this one is no exception. This is a return to the super dark & craziness that was found in her Cruel Black Hearts series & I'm totally here for it.
This novel has more gothic type vibes & ghosts & crazy men & is the main character crazy too? You just have to find out in the next book because this one ends off on cliff-hanger. This had some great atmosphere & I just really believed the setting.
Felice is done living with her father & accepts a job at Grimstead Academy. Let's just say if you can't find any information about it on the internet maybe something is up... But she decides to accept the position and once she gets there it's nothing like she expected. 5 men reside in the "Academy" and they each have their own demons and some of them are better at hiding them than others.
This book sucked me in and honestly I didn't want to leave until I had the final two books in my hand!
This novel has more gothic type vibes & ghosts & crazy men & is the main character crazy too? You just have to find out in the next book because this one ends off on cliff-hanger. This had some great atmosphere & I just really believed the setting.
Felice is done living with her father & accepts a job at Grimstead Academy. Let's just say if you can't find any information about it on the internet maybe something is up... But she decides to accept the position and once she gets there it's nothing like she expected. 5 men reside in the "Academy" and they each have their own demons and some of them are better at hiding them than others.
This book sucked me in and honestly I didn't want to leave until I had the final two books in my hand!
Read
April 28, 2020Dnf at 80%
Meh... this book wasn’t really bad but it wasn’t good either. It was kind of confusing and a little scattered. Although I will give the author credit for an original idea on the Academy books.
Meh... this book wasn’t really bad but it wasn’t good either. It was kind of confusing and a little scattered. Although I will give the author credit for an original idea on the Academy books.
April 15, 2021
This was certainly an interesting and intriguing start to a new series/trilogy. I went in not knowing what to expect but having read books by this author before I was certainly expecting a darkish read and this did not disappoint. I'm over your average goody too shoes characters and these were anything but. Some may even describe them as monsters, unquestionably nothing like the men/woman your parents always dreamed you'd bring home. At this point in the series I have no idea where things are headed or really who they all really are. I don't really have a love/hate relationship with any of them yet but I think that's because I have so many lingering questions lol. Even with the multiple POVs there's still a lot that's conveniently left out. The cat though, is probably my favorite character so far. I swear he's like a more evil version of Salem and I'm convinced he has a lot more power than is let on. Plus he manages to always show up at just the right/wrong time depending on how you look at it. The end was a pretty sizable cliffhanger so be prepared. On that front however I'm glad the blinders over the heroines eyes are finally gone and things are becoming clearer to her. Particularly how leaving is no longer an option....
January 27, 2020
I have no words to explain what I just read. Amazing just doesn’t cut it. Freaking amazing is close. This story had me in the edge of my seat all night. I seriously could not put this book down. I will admit I’m confused more then anything. This looks like it’s going to be one heck of a series. Definitely a dark story. Does end on a cliffhanger. Which is why I’m confused. To end it like that uggg. Definitely have to read what happens next. This is not your typical academy book. It’s so much more. Bring on the next book!!!
October 5, 2020
This... it takes turns in ways you can't predict... dark and addictive
February 2, 2020
I’m in awe 🤩🤩🤩
Just when I think Candace can’t come up with anything more enthralling, she proves me wrong. I have read almost all of Candace’s books and this is now one of my favorites. This is an Academy but I promise it isn’t like any Academy that is out there. So if you are one of those readers who is burnt out on the academy troupe, I highly recommend this because this is an Academy book that stands out amongst the rest!!
This is a dark gothic type story that has an Academy illusion to the main character Felice. Think of all the popular gothic stories in history being thrown together with a possessed mansion and delicious men, then you have the groundwork for Grimmstead. I’m talking Jekyll and Hyde, Dorian Gray, and Dr. Frankenstein, and Edgar Allan Poe inspired characters who make you question your sanity and manages to convince you to like them as characters. The creativity the author has put into this story with weaving all these historic gothic tales together is mind blowing and something I didn’t know I needed until I picked this gem up.
I am completely astounded as to how well the author has crafted this story and this entire world at Grimmstead. It was incredibly unique and unlike anything I have ever read. It’s mysterious, it’s eerie, it’s sexy, it’s dark, it’s twisted, ITS EVERYTHING!! 😍 Even that ending had my heart pumping and I can’t wait to read the next book to learn more about Victor Grimmstead. I’m also hoping that Lucien, Payne, Ian, Dagen, and Koda make return appearances in the next book... even though the author has made that a little more difficult to accomplish for a couple of those characters. 😉
Just when I think Candace can’t come up with anything more enthralling, she proves me wrong. I have read almost all of Candace’s books and this is now one of my favorites. This is an Academy but I promise it isn’t like any Academy that is out there. So if you are one of those readers who is burnt out on the academy troupe, I highly recommend this because this is an Academy book that stands out amongst the rest!!
This is a dark gothic type story that has an Academy illusion to the main character Felice. Think of all the popular gothic stories in history being thrown together with a possessed mansion and delicious men, then you have the groundwork for Grimmstead. I’m talking Jekyll and Hyde, Dorian Gray, and Dr. Frankenstein, and Edgar Allan Poe inspired characters who make you question your sanity and manages to convince you to like them as characters. The creativity the author has put into this story with weaving all these historic gothic tales together is mind blowing and something I didn’t know I needed until I picked this gem up.
I am completely astounded as to how well the author has crafted this story and this entire world at Grimmstead. It was incredibly unique and unlike anything I have ever read. It’s mysterious, it’s eerie, it’s sexy, it’s dark, it’s twisted, ITS EVERYTHING!! 😍 Even that ending had my heart pumping and I can’t wait to read the next book to learn more about Victor Grimmstead. I’m also hoping that Lucien, Payne, Ian, Dagen, and Koda make return appearances in the next book... even though the author has made that a little more difficult to accomplish for a couple of those characters. 😉
February 10, 2020
Mega mystery
I am a big fan of Candace but I will say I felt like this one took some time for me to get into. Once we really started to get more from the characters I though it was a good read. I liked the mystery surrounding each of the guys and how we learned a little bit about them at a time. They are definitely all alittle special 😈. I had a bit of trouble connecting with the FMC. But the dark mystery factor I am in love with. I found my self trying to find out more about them.
I am a big fan of Candace but I will say I felt like this one took some time for me to get into. Once we really started to get more from the characters I though it was a good read. I liked the mystery surrounding each of the guys and how we learned a little bit about them at a time. They are definitely all alittle special 😈. I had a bit of trouble connecting with the FMC. But the dark mystery factor I am in love with. I found my self trying to find out more about them.
March 9, 2020
Well, that was...confusing. But in a good way!
I have no idea what's going on but it certainly is intriguing enough for me to carry on reading the series.
The story very much has a haunted house, horror movie type feel to it. Definitely not your usual academy book. It's written really well so you feel the weirdness and creepy stuff right alongside Felice.
It's not something I'd usually go for to be honest but as it is Psycho Queen Candace Wondrak I thought I'd give it a go. No regrets!
I have no idea what's going on but it certainly is intriguing enough for me to carry on reading the series.
The story very much has a haunted house, horror movie type feel to it. Definitely not your usual academy book. It's written really well so you feel the weirdness and creepy stuff right alongside Felice.
It's not something I'd usually go for to be honest but as it is Psycho Queen Candace Wondrak I thought I'd give it a go. No regrets!
February 4, 2020
This is another fantastic start to a series by Candace! She always manages to drag me into being obsessed with her worlds and Grimmstead Academy is no exception! This is creepily wonderful, keeps you being intrigued and will leave you wanting more! I definitely can't wait to dive into reading book two when it comes out and recommend it immensely to anyone thinking of giving it a go!
February 5, 2020
Whoa! Just whoa...
This was a completely unexpected read. I thought it was a dark academy story but really it's more like gothic horror and I freaking loved it! Poor Felice, just as broken as the others but with a better grasp of social norms, has no idea what she's just walked into. Grimmstead isn't an academy - it's a sentient house full of horrors apparently. It's inhabitants troubled men and a couple of monsters. This was beyond intriguing and that ending! I really, really hope that there's more to that ending cause OMG no!
While not what I expected I was totally pulled into the story and mystery and cannot wait to find out more.
This was a completely unexpected read. I thought it was a dark academy story but really it's more like gothic horror and I freaking loved it! Poor Felice, just as broken as the others but with a better grasp of social norms, has no idea what she's just walked into. Grimmstead isn't an academy - it's a sentient house full of horrors apparently. It's inhabitants troubled men and a couple of monsters. This was beyond intriguing and that ending! I really, really hope that there's more to that ending cause OMG no!
While not what I expected I was totally pulled into the story and mystery and cannot wait to find out more.
February 2, 2020
W.T.H.
Let me start by saying Candace Wondrak is a twisted and dark author that I am so freaking glad I found!
This is not your typical academy book! It is so dark and twisted that I am in love with every single character!
Start this series right now.
Let me start by saying Candace Wondrak is a twisted and dark author that I am so freaking glad I found!
This is not your typical academy book! It is so dark and twisted that I am in love with every single character!
Start this series right now.
March 24, 2022
Kindle Unlimited.
I'm not sure how to rate this. On one hand, I was sucked in, and I enjoyed it. On the other, I was confused half the time and left wanting answers at the (cliffhanger) end.
The mystery of Grimmstead is addicting. I want to know all the things. Felice is 50/50 to me. I like that she has some darkness, but some of her actions didn't make sense.
I may pick up book two after I've had more time to process.
I'm not sure how to rate this. On one hand, I was sucked in, and I enjoyed it. On the other, I was confused half the time and left wanting answers at the (cliffhanger) end.
The mystery of Grimmstead is addicting. I want to know all the things. Felice is 50/50 to me. I like that she has some darkness, but some of her actions didn't make sense.
I may pick up book two after I've had more time to process.
August 28, 2022
Good intro to the spooky season...gave Haunted Mansion vibes. Lots of gothic monsters. Eeerie. I feel confused about the rating but will continue the series.
August 20, 2021
I thought I would love this but I was bored. Did not work for me. I think it has a lot to do with the writing.
You may love it.
You may love it.
January 29, 2020
What a mind blowing book this is. I was totally pulled into this crazy ride with many twists, turns and several mind blowing occurrences throughout.
It's not a typical academy book which with this story you will understand why once you've got sucked in. With a great female character and five male characters all with different characteristics to make the book the dark twisty ride it becomes. All while Felice tries to do the job she was hired for without knowing the full extent of what happens at Grimmstead. Then to be left on such a cliff at the end that will leave you trying to work out what's going to happen next.
It's not a typical academy book which with this story you will understand why once you've got sucked in. With a great female character and five male characters all with different characteristics to make the book the dark twisty ride it becomes. All while Felice tries to do the job she was hired for without knowing the full extent of what happens at Grimmstead. Then to be left on such a cliff at the end that will leave you trying to work out what's going to happen next.
January 29, 2020
This was full of twist and turns and mystery. I loved it. This is for people who love academy books but also for those that don't. This is not a traditional academy book. The romance is fast to medium burn and oh so good. Grimmstead definitely leaves you wondering what you just read and how can you get more.
February 1, 2020
Grimmstead Academy isn’t your typical academy book it is so much better. It keeps you on the edge of your seat always wanting more. Felice thinks she’s offered a teaching job but it couldn’t be further from the truth she’s stuck with no way out and not everything is as it seems. I definitely recommend and can’t wait to see what happens in the next book
February 1, 2020
Cool idea. Needed more story, less pointless sexy stuff.
I'm sorry, but I couldn't get into this book. Mild spoilers ahead? Not sure what the plot of this book was supposed to be, though, so not sure if I'm spoiling anything but the smut.
The start of the book seemed like it was written too simply and nothing grabbed me or enticed me to read it with gusto. I didn't get a clear idea of who the FMC was (or whatever I discovered didn't really interest me - she seemed boring), and she sounded like a teenage airhead at times. She is 19 but supposedly hired as an authority figure for these older troubled men, because she just is the "it" girl for this creepy Academy. But again, she sounds like she has zero idea about what her work entails. And she doesn't really even work. There are maybe two(?) uhhh.. work sessions that she has with the guys, and other scenes are just sexual encounters of all sorts of varied levels. Oh, and a lot of talk about her being wet (from the rain) and wearing a dress.
The grand idea behind the "academy", aka the building, is interesting, but I felt the actual characters needed a lot of work so that they'd be more than just one dimensional loonies, and the book needed many more pages to establish believable relationships between the characters. Or even a believable backstory for any of it/them.
As it was now, it appeared like each character lived in their own little bubbles. The male characters were basically 1) one tortured boss (aka the one guy who just had to be named "Lucien"), 2) a Jekyll/Hyde dude, 3) a guy with a vamp fetish, 4) a scrawny nerd, and 5) Dorian Grey...? And the FMC just went around thinking smutty thoughts about them all. At times, it seemed the whole point of the story was to create sexy scenes between the characters, with no apparent reason or chemistry. The FMC is pretty, so obviously everyone wants her. And even though she looks and acts innocent, she has constant cravings for any and all dick. Because the academy brings out the deepest, truest beings within people, the FMC is turned into a pervy schoolmistress, who humps all of them naughty boys. She just "felt like it" all of the time. And also, she felt it so much that one of the sexy scenes even felt slightly rapey on her part. Aka she basically forces herself on a guy. So eh.. as I said, I didn't really get into it.
(And as always, this is just my opinion. I'd still recommend you read the book. It was different enough, and perhaps the next books will get more into the story and offer some substance.)
I'm sorry, but I couldn't get into this book. Mild spoilers ahead? Not sure what the plot of this book was supposed to be, though, so not sure if I'm spoiling anything but the smut.
The start of the book seemed like it was written too simply and nothing grabbed me or enticed me to read it with gusto. I didn't get a clear idea of who the FMC was (or whatever I discovered didn't really interest me - she seemed boring), and she sounded like a teenage airhead at times. She is 19 but supposedly hired as an authority figure for these older troubled men, because she just is the "it" girl for this creepy Academy. But again, she sounds like she has zero idea about what her work entails. And she doesn't really even work. There are maybe two(?) uhhh.. work sessions that she has with the guys, and other scenes are just sexual encounters of all sorts of varied levels. Oh, and a lot of talk about her being wet (from the rain) and wearing a dress.
The grand idea behind the "academy", aka the building, is interesting, but I felt the actual characters needed a lot of work so that they'd be more than just one dimensional loonies, and the book needed many more pages to establish believable relationships between the characters. Or even a believable backstory for any of it/them.
As it was now, it appeared like each character lived in their own little bubbles. The male characters were basically 1) one tortured boss (aka the one guy who just had to be named "Lucien"), 2) a Jekyll/Hyde dude, 3) a guy with a vamp fetish, 4) a scrawny nerd, and 5) Dorian Grey...? And the FMC just went around thinking smutty thoughts about them all. At times, it seemed the whole point of the story was to create sexy scenes between the characters, with no apparent reason or chemistry. The FMC is pretty, so obviously everyone wants her. And even though she looks and acts innocent, she has constant cravings for any and all dick. Because the academy brings out the deepest, truest beings within people, the FMC is turned into a pervy schoolmistress, who humps all of them naughty boys. She just "felt like it" all of the time. And also, she felt it so much that one of the sexy scenes even felt slightly rapey on her part. Aka she basically forces herself on a guy. So eh.. as I said, I didn't really get into it.
(And as always, this is just my opinion. I'd still recommend you read the book. It was different enough, and perhaps the next books will get more into the story and offer some substance.)
December 21, 2023
There was an interesting gothic-themed mystery in there but it was severely overshadowed by the female lead's too stupid-to-live inanity.
1) Her glib, almost silly, perspective was at odds with the dark, ominous, gothic tone of the story.
2) There was a bunch of weird shit going on but what was her focus? How much the men turned her on.
3) The other characters kept saying she was naive and innocent but her thoughts and behavior were of someone who is actually a tedious, narcissistic airhead.
4) Her inner monologuing went over the same ground over and over and led no where.
5) She made lots of contorted, often semi-contradictory statements during her inner monologues (ie Everything felt tingly, like I was high. I’d never been high, but I could imagine this was what it felt like. instead of 'Everything felt tingly, like what I imagined feeling high was like.')
The mystery is interesting enough that I am going to try the next one but I am not holding out a lot of hope.
1) Her glib, almost silly, perspective was at odds with the dark, ominous, gothic tone of the story.
2) There was a bunch of weird shit going on but what was her focus? How much the men turned her on.
3) The other characters kept saying she was naive and innocent but her thoughts and behavior were of someone who is actually a tedious, narcissistic airhead.
4) Her inner monologuing went over the same ground over and over and led no where.
5) She made lots of contorted, often semi-contradictory statements during her inner monologues (ie Everything felt tingly, like I was high. I’d never been high, but I could imagine this was what it felt like. instead of 'Everything felt tingly, like what I imagined feeling high was like.')
The mystery is interesting enough that I am going to try the next one but I am not holding out a lot of hope.
February 2, 2020
A good start to what has potential to be a great original and dark series!
This is not an academy book, despite the name of the series. This is a story about a 19 year old girl who is hired to tutor a few men living in a house. We don’t get to follow her doing her work. Instead we get to follow how the girl quickly realizes not all is what it seems. The men are dark and of questionable character and the house seems to have a mind of it’s own.
The book is unfortunately too short to give the characters enough depth and room to develop relationships. This makes the sex scenes feel rather abrupt. However, I get the feeling the house has something to do with those burning feelings, which leaves me with so many questions: What exactly is the house? What does the house want? And what purpose do the girl serve in the house’s plans?
I usually read romance for the romance (duh..), but in this case I’m actually more interested in knowing WHAT’S UP WITH THAT GODDAMN HOUSE?!
This is not an academy book, despite the name of the series. This is a story about a 19 year old girl who is hired to tutor a few men living in a house. We don’t get to follow her doing her work. Instead we get to follow how the girl quickly realizes not all is what it seems. The men are dark and of questionable character and the house seems to have a mind of it’s own.
The book is unfortunately too short to give the characters enough depth and room to develop relationships. This makes the sex scenes feel rather abrupt. However, I get the feeling the house has something to do with those burning feelings, which leaves me with so many questions: What exactly is the house? What does the house want? And what purpose do the girl serve in the house’s plans?
I usually read romance for the romance (duh..), but in this case I’m actually more interested in knowing WHAT’S UP WITH THAT GODDAMN HOUSE?!
February 4, 2020
What sorcery is this?!
Holy guacamole! This book had me reeling! What kind of mindf*ckery was this even?
The author managed to pile mystery upon mystery upon mystery. Grimmstead Academy is a place where your worst fears come alive that's for sure. When the female main character ends up in this mysterious academy, she immediately notices what kind of strange place it is. But not only does Grimmstead appear to be a living entity, its inhabitants all deal with their own set of demons.
The different characters immediately drew me in. Their actions and points of view contribute to the mysterious atmosphere set in this book. It gives this book a haunted vibe. There's only one thing I can say about this book and it's the fact that I need the next one asap, because in terms of cliffhangers, this is as good as it gets!
Holy guacamole! This book had me reeling! What kind of mindf*ckery was this even?
The author managed to pile mystery upon mystery upon mystery. Grimmstead Academy is a place where your worst fears come alive that's for sure. When the female main character ends up in this mysterious academy, she immediately notices what kind of strange place it is. But not only does Grimmstead appear to be a living entity, its inhabitants all deal with their own set of demons.
The different characters immediately drew me in. Their actions and points of view contribute to the mysterious atmosphere set in this book. It gives this book a haunted vibe. There's only one thing I can say about this book and it's the fact that I need the next one asap, because in terms of cliffhangers, this is as good as it gets!
Read
February 28, 2020***I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.***
OMG This book was amazing! When I first started reading the book book I was so confused and wondering what was going on! Just keep reading! I promise if you keep reading, you are going to fall in love with this book! Once you start to think you know what is going on, something happens and it makes you question everything. Everything I thought I was figuring out only left me with even more questions and wanting to know what happens.
This is a dark Gothic type story that keeps you guessing. This book makes you question your sanity and manages to convince you to like them as characters. The way Candace Wondrak wrote this book was so creative and different.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series! If you have not given this book a try, please do and keep pushing through. You will see what I mean!
OMG This book was amazing! When I first started reading the book book I was so confused and wondering what was going on! Just keep reading! I promise if you keep reading, you are going to fall in love with this book! Once you start to think you know what is going on, something happens and it makes you question everything. Everything I thought I was figuring out only left me with even more questions and wanting to know what happens.
This is a dark Gothic type story that keeps you guessing. This book makes you question your sanity and manages to convince you to like them as characters. The way Candace Wondrak wrote this book was so creative and different.
I cannot wait to read the next book in this series! If you have not given this book a try, please do and keep pushing through. You will see what I mean!
November 23, 2025
Grimmstead Academy is a f*ck with your mind kind of series. It has a gothic feel to it, making it a hauntingly beautiful read. The house itself is an entity that changes, its walls dripping with depravity, insanity and blood. If you die in the house, you get stuck (I think), sorta like American Horror Story: Murder House. Maybe the characters aren't dead, just not really alive... look I don't know, that's how mess up this story is, and that's why I love it. The boys are all insanely inviting. Ian reminds me of Dorian Gray - vain, pictures that show him aged. Dagen is paranoid to a teeth. Payne, my favourite, is obsessed with blood - very vampyr of him. Koda has kind of split personality or fights with the demon on his shoulder that can take control of him and causes mass chaos and death. And Lucien is the alpha of this pack of misfits, who loves to punish them when they break rules.
February 8, 2020
Okay, I went into this not knowing AT ALL what it was about, wasn't even sure what the genre was. I was just taken by the title, the cover, and specifically the words "villainous" and "academy".
I did not know that this was going to contain so much graphic sexual content, but I can't say I'm complaining too much! I 10/10 want to continue this series, the writing was easy to follow, and it was a lot of fun to read!
I'm hoping that book two will develop the characters a little bit more– I find that books with high sexual content tends to slack on plot and character development, reading off more like someone's online fanfiction than an actual book– but I totally see potential here, and it has my full attention.
I did not know that this was going to contain so much graphic sexual content, but I can't say I'm complaining too much! I 10/10 want to continue this series, the writing was easy to follow, and it was a lot of fun to read!
I'm hoping that book two will develop the characters a little bit more– I find that books with high sexual content tends to slack on plot and character development, reading off more like someone's online fanfiction than an actual book– but I totally see potential here, and it has my full attention.
March 29, 2020
The best mind-warp
This book takes you on a trip and refuses to let go. Definitely unlike any academy book I've read. Quite honestly, reading this book is an adventure in and of itself, a complete and utter rollercoaster of emotion and intrigue that keeps you on your toes, not wanting to stop reading until it's over. And did I mention that once you reach the cliffhanger-ish ending your left immediately wanting more? Because it is. Seriously, there is something not quite right going on at Grimmstead and it and the characters bring to mind different pieces of pop culture in a way that makes you believe Candace Wondrak is a madwoman, which considering all the magical and maniacal things that keep happening in this story alone, she just might be.
This book takes you on a trip and refuses to let go. Definitely unlike any academy book I've read. Quite honestly, reading this book is an adventure in and of itself, a complete and utter rollercoaster of emotion and intrigue that keeps you on your toes, not wanting to stop reading until it's over. And did I mention that once you reach the cliffhanger-ish ending your left immediately wanting more? Because it is. Seriously, there is something not quite right going on at Grimmstead and it and the characters bring to mind different pieces of pop culture in a way that makes you believe Candace Wondrak is a madwoman, which considering all the magical and maniacal things that keep happening in this story alone, she just might be.
April 4, 2020
4.5 rounded up
The creep factor is high in these gothic halls, bleeding that noir feel through the pages as deftly as horror novels of old. Not only is this place a mysterious cavern of strange and surreal, it is also a place out of time, locked into an antique struggle against life, reality and death. Felice, who is far from as innocent as age first appears, is the perfect and diabolically intentional, addition to Grimmstead - though is the games are played ON her, or if she is a tool to torture the others, is still up to debate. Probably both.
Wicked.
Pros:
- Well written.
- Flat out creepy.
- The characters are beyond explanation.
Cons:
- not many, except you really don’t know what is going on.
The creep factor is high in these gothic halls, bleeding that noir feel through the pages as deftly as horror novels of old. Not only is this place a mysterious cavern of strange and surreal, it is also a place out of time, locked into an antique struggle against life, reality and death. Felice, who is far from as innocent as age first appears, is the perfect and diabolically intentional, addition to Grimmstead - though is the games are played ON her, or if she is a tool to torture the others, is still up to debate. Probably both.
Wicked.
Pros:
- Well written.
- Flat out creepy.
- The characters are beyond explanation.
Cons:
- not many, except you really don’t know what is going on.
April 9, 2020
Reverse Harem: their descriptions are in my highlights but its a guy that like Dorian Grey, one that hears voices in his head, another that has a fetish for blood, one with multiple personalities and then the head master of the crazy's
19 year old that gets a job offer at a school which she tales because she has no there options and want to get away from her father. It leads you to believe that she also has some secrets that she is hiding. reminded me of American Horror Story the first season she basically shows up to a mansion with only her and the guys once your in you can never leave but they decide to leave her in the dark. Has a Gothic feel to it wearing the same clothes everyday of a grey dress and slacks.
19 year old that gets a job offer at a school which she tales because she has no there options and want to get away from her father. It leads you to believe that she also has some secrets that she is hiding. reminded me of American Horror Story the first season she basically shows up to a mansion with only her and the guys once your in you can never leave but they decide to leave her in the dark. Has a Gothic feel to it wearing the same clothes everyday of a grey dress and slacks.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2022
2.5 stars
Felice recently got kicked out of college for some unknown event and received a mysterious job offer in the mail. Desperate to escape her father's disapproving gaze, she jumps at the chance. Upon arrival at the creepy manor, she learns that she is to be responsible for counseling/teaching troubled men.
Honestly while the story had some interesting moments, it suffered from bad pacing. Felice wasn't really an interesting character and most of the story was told in her POV. I found it unbelievable that an unqualified 20yr old could counsel men older than her. I struggled to keep the guys straight and didn't feel much of a connection to any of them. The book ended with no answers. The lone sex scene(with Felice), was weird and brief. Not sure I'll read the second.
Felice recently got kicked out of college for some unknown event and received a mysterious job offer in the mail. Desperate to escape her father's disapproving gaze, she jumps at the chance. Upon arrival at the creepy manor, she learns that she is to be responsible for counseling/teaching troubled men.
Honestly while the story had some interesting moments, it suffered from bad pacing. Felice wasn't really an interesting character and most of the story was told in her POV. I found it unbelievable that an unqualified 20yr old could counsel men older than her. I struggled to keep the guys straight and didn't feel much of a connection to any of them. The book ended with no answers. The lone sex scene(with Felice), was weird and brief. Not sure I'll read the second.
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