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The Academy

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He’s the Playboy Prince. Prince Henry never had to worry about anything – until his brother died. From that moment on, his life was turned upside down, and he enrolled in the prestigious academy. Karia wants to follow in her famous father’s footsteps as an investigative reporter. Her first Prince Henry. The only way to get close enough is to spend time with the handsome young royal. And can she do that without falling for the Playboy Prince? But there is danger afoot, and the very stern, very dark and handsome Master Armstrong doesn't like the idea of Karia and the prince spending so much time together. Now, Karia is torn between the two men. She is secretly dating the prince, but there is something about the master that keeps drawing her to him… Publisher's This steamy academy romance contains strong elements of power exchange.

198 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 16, 2019

18 people are currently reading
20 people want to read

About the author

Isabella Kole

42 books39 followers
Isabella Kole lives in southern Indiana, where she enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Always an avid romance reader, she began writing several years ago and although she has had several mainstream romances published under a different pen name, Accepting His Terms is the first erotic romance in her collection.

When not writing, Isabella can be found traveling around signing books and meeting her readers, working at her day job, or simply enjoying life.

You can find Isabella on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Isabel...

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5 stars
16 (51%)
4 stars
9 (29%)
3 stars
4 (12%)
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2 (6%)
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
Profile Image for Kathy Heare Watts.
7,079 reviews175 followers
December 22, 2019
I HAVE EVERY FAITH IN YOU AND IN US

Ms. Isabella Kole has stepped out of the box with this new series that is full of mystery, romantic suspense, danger, and secrets. Avalon Academy is an exclusive school for the wealthy best-of-the-best students to hone their skills and career choices. Most of these students were raised with wealth and were spoiled, but at Avalon, they will not only be trained, but they will also be disciplined. The book is the first in a series and would probably be best to be read in written order.

It comes with a great shock when Karia learns she won’t be going off to University with her friends, but instead, she will be sent to a private school, one that only accepts twenty new students each year. How did she not know that her father also was a student here? But then to learn she will be subjected to harsh discipline makes it even more confusing. Then she will learn that Prince Henry will be an added student and she has been assigned to write an article to help clean up his playboy reputation.

“My dear, you were meant for great things, or you would not be here on this mountain with us today. You will move on to the greatness you were meant for. Choose your path wisely.”

“There are very few with your father’s abilities and finesse, Karia, not to mention scruples. Do you believe yourself as powerful as he, able to accurately report the truth? Perhaps, working together, we will be strong enough to prove to everyone that we both have redeeming qualities after all.” –Prince Henry

The story will keep the pages turning with life and death situations, intrigue, and a new change in pace. Karia finds herself being disciplined often by Master Armstrong, and some of the things he says to her have her deeply confused. It isn’t easy being the daughter of Gordon Daly, but sometimes she thinks of his quotes. “A small smile today, along with the truth, could prevent a war in the future.” But what about Master Armstrong?

“You must forgive yourself, Karia. You, like me, must move on from our old ways.”

The discipline metes out by Master Armstrong is harsh and humiliating. The nightmares that Karia has are disturbing and the danger to the Prince puts her also in harm's way. A romance is budding for Henry and Karia but there are some who would like to keep that from happening. Are there ulterior motives behind the Prince? Is he using Karia to clear up his reputation?

The story has explicit, harsh discipline scenes by authority figures at a private school. They include humiliations, exposure, and even anal punishments. It also has a love story that is mostly in secret and does have one intimate scene.
Profile Image for JD (on semi-hiatus).
984 reviews228 followers
December 22, 2019
As you can see from my above tags, I hated this book; in fact, it's one of the most loathsome I've read (or, in this case, tried to read as I didn't finish it) in a genre that's all too full of them. Here's why:

1) Birth Equals Worth: This book reeks of classism. So, only the children of the wealthy are allowed to go to this school because, of course, the children of the poor are never, never exceptional in any way.

2) Unfair Punishments: Karia is punished -- caned, with witnesses, no less -- because she was 10 MINUTES LATE because she was a NEW STUDENT WHO DIDN'T KNOW WHERE SHE WAS GOING! The disclaimer drastically underplays the level of severity and element of consent apparent in this book (par for the course with Blushing Books and Stormy Night Publications, who seem to like to keep potential readers in as much dark as possible): "This steamy academy romance contains strong elements of power exchange." Uh, no. "Power Exchange" indicates choice; this was "Power Forcibly Taken" (see below). During this punishment, Karia is afraid for her life. How this is supposed to be "hot" is beyond me.

3) Creepy/Non-Consent: Her parents, after indulging Karia all her life, suddenly decide she needs "discipline" and send her off to a school where they know she will be abused, physically and sexually. Now, leaving aside that parents making their daughters someone else's problem is one of my pet peeves in this genre (in these books, it's always daughters because, you see, sons always turn out perfectly), is there any caring, responsible parent alive who would do this to a child they claim to love?

4) The age of the protagonists: I'm over 18 years olds as main characters in this genre. Yes, 18 is legal age; no, they are not adults in terms of emotional, mental, psychological, moral, or even physical age. And anyone who thinks they are has spent no time around this age group.

5) Mental Abuse: In the part I read, everyone called Karia "spoiled." I saw no evidence of that (she was actually very likable and accomplished); thus, they were trying to break her down, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

This is one of the worst books I've ever read for the above reasons. If the above doesn't bother you, than I strongly suggest you read the ample 4- and 5-star reviews left here.

ETA: Can someone please explain to me why this book is listed under the Movie Tie-In Fiction category on Amazon? Exactly which film is this a tie-in with?
Profile Image for Anna.
790 reviews
December 22, 2019
The Academy was a different sort of story. Karia is a college aged girl who is sent to high school like academy that is super strict and disciplined (like very spanky). The story is intriguing. There is the relationship between Karia and the prince, her interactions with her mentor, Master Armstrong, a little bit of a mystery, possibly paranormal aspect, and her own inner angst and musings. I really enjoyed this story and was looking forward to know more throughout the story, although I had a feeling that, as it was a series, I might get left a little hanging. There were one or two confusing things. It was unclear if the author intended the story to have a magical component. It was never addressed directly, but the name of the academy was Avalon and there were several lines in the book that suggested magic or paranormal aspects, but then it was not addressed again. I enjoyed the characters, but felt they could have been more fully fleshed out. However, perhaps the author is waiting for future stories. Even given these nitpicky things, I was completely absorbed by this book. It is the kind of story I like, that it hard to find. It was disciplinary, well written, had an interesting story, and also had a romantic story line. It has a HFN. I am definitely looking forward to the next book. 4.5 stars.
383 reviews6 followers
December 19, 2019
This is a great book for fans of academic discipline. Karia's punishments were harsh and plentiful at Avalon Academy. Still, she seemed to thrive thanks to her talent and motivation, her friends, and her sweet romance with the prince. I liked her strong character and going along on the journey of her first year at the school. I loved the warmth and friendship of the royal family and Karia's friends. Even the dean and the teachers seemed caring. The mystery of the Master who loves to punish her was intriguing and remains a mystery. I'm looking forward to the next book to see what happens with him. With the prince on to other things, I'm also anxious to read about how Karia and Henry continue their relationship with her in school. Overall, I really enjoyed the book and had to chuckle at the plight of Karia's poor bottom.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews72 followers
December 19, 2019
ONE EXCEPTIONAL ADVENTURE!!!
Incredible! Isabella shatters the mold, pulls the strings and cuts the cord with this mind blowing, prize winning delight that blasts this jewel wide open. Disbursing incredible, well rounded scenario's so intense you feel the pulse racing, electrifying hum running rampant through your viens. Advancing through the trials and tribulations, struggling with all the drama, skepticism, intrigue, danger and suspense soars, blasting this baby into the eye of the storm, breaking it down, throwing it into a tailspin with staggering impacts. Mix in turmoil and distress and you have one intense rollercoaster ride. Mastering the ups and downs, weaving a cocoon so intricately and tight, draws you deeper into this tangled web until everything else ceases to exist. The characters chemistry is intense, white hot and explosive. Strong and solid personalities balance out and play off one another delightfully. The scenes are so colorfully descriptive to give you a full understanding and realism that blend and flows smoothly. Remarkable job Isabella, thanks for sharing this incredible jewel with us.
Profile Image for Heart5.
766 reviews
December 20, 2019
This story was considerably darker than what I've come to expect from this author. Overall though, the book was enjoyable. Karia was a likeable character. Her acceptance of such a different environment seemed to come a little quicker than one would expect, especially when she was unjustly punished. I expected her to hold a grudge for a little longer.

My feelings for Master Armstrong and Prince Henry were a little more complex. Master Armstrong seemed terminally unlikeable, but by the end my feelings for him had actually warmed up a little. Prince Henry's transformation was not quite as extreme as Master Armstrong's but his character definitely improved with time.

The story itself was good. There was definitely foreshadowing of a more mystical theme in future books. The story ended well and left me looking forward to future books.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
3,260 reviews25 followers
Read
December 19, 2019
Karia is surprised when her parents send her to a private Academy but there she meets Prince Henry.Expecting to go to university with her friends Karia is shocked when her parents tell her they have arranged for her to attend the Avalon Academy an exclusive private Academy which only takes twenty student each year. When she arrives she finds it has strict rules and punishments and in the middle of her first punishment given by the Headmaster by the arrival of King George and his son, Prince Henry. Karia plans a career as a journalist the same as her father and it is decided the she will shadow Prince Henry for the time he spends at the Academy to write an article to help improve the Princes image.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Marybeth.
2,321 reviews22 followers
December 18, 2019
This is a different tale. It seems to go back and forth between this world and a supernatural world. Karia has been sent to the Academy for college by her parents. She knows nothing about the college and their way of keeping discipline. On her first day, she is caned and then sent to the corner. There is intrigue. Someone is trying to stop the Prince from becoming King. Karia is torn between Prince Henry and Master Armstrong even though she is secretly with the Prince This is the first in a series that builds upon one another. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
6,168 reviews57 followers
December 21, 2019
A little bit supernatural and a little bit of normal. Karia's parents send her to the Academy to get the scoop on Prince Henry who will be the future King as his brother has died. As Karia get close to the Prince she has to guard her feeling as the Prince has always been a playboy. As they start to learn more about each other Master Armstrong is making things difficult for the two. Karia is torn between Henry and Master Armstrong. There is strict discipline, intrigue and mystery. Awesome read. I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
4,680 reviews9 followers
December 21, 2019
This book 1 in the Avalon Adventures is a very well-written new series with strong well-crafted evolving characters. The interactions with her mentor and prince leave you wondering if there will be something more either in her training or in her relationships. This story does leave you hanging at times, I believe it is due to not wanting to spoil future books. I did enjoy this book and cannot wait for the next book in series

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
571 reviews1 follower
April 27, 2020
Love right and wrong

Karia Daly was a vivacious 18 year old. Unfortunately, she was going to the college of her parents choosing. It was small, and had some very old fashioned ideas. Poor Karia was the daily recipient of those ideas.
As her first assignment, she has to follow Prince Henry around and write a story about him changing his behavior so that he is worthy to be king someday.
I liked this story, Karia had to face feelings towards the Prince and her strange attraction to Master Armstrong, one of her Professors.
I would definitely recommend this book and series.
Profile Image for Scarolet Ellis.
7,445 reviews53 followers
December 21, 2019
The Academy (Avalon Adventures Book 1) by Isabella Kole is a wonderful story that I have read. This is book number one in this wonderful start to a brand new series that I fell in love with. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about contemporary romances.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,120 reviews51 followers
December 21, 2019
Great start to a new series. Karia is sent to the Academy of Arts a school know for its discipline. She meets Prince Henry and sparks fly but there is also Master Armstrong. Loads of drama, suspense steam and great world building. A wonderful story that drew me in from beginning to end. Looking forward to more in the series.
2,416 reviews
December 20, 2019
This was a good read. My attention was drawn in and kept throughout l. The story and characters are well written and developed. I would recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kathleen Bradbury (Bulfon).
16.4k reviews220 followers
December 21, 2019
A well written book with an interesting story line. The characters are strong and the story flows quickly and smoothly. I enjoyed reading this story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,970 reviews18 followers
December 29, 2019
Spanky

Karia is sent to a private school one with hidden agendas, harsh discipline, power exchange and manipulations.
The story is compelling and the characters interesting. Enjoyable read!
Profile Image for Pat .
4,172 reviews20 followers
December 21, 2019
Thrilling and fun read. Characters were great and kept you glued to the book. Fantastic storyline and worth the read
1,754 reviews3 followers
December 30, 2019
Wow

I fell in love with the characters(yes even secondary) the plot everything was well written and I hope to read more from this author.
Profile Image for Raffaella Rowell.
Author 11 books30 followers
December 11, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this fun and suspenseful book. Loved the characters and it kept me on the page. I look forward to reading more of the series.
Profile Image for Dawn Milligan.
2,712 reviews16 followers
December 23, 2019
This is a well written book! I enjoyed getting to know the characters and the twists and suprises where great I look forward to many great books in this world!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews