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Rebel or die. My choices are simple. I've been sent to Bloodwing Academy because I'm one of the magically repressed. I should have magical powers, but I don't. Not yet. One day I'll wake up and my powers will be out of my control. I'll be a threat to everyone around me, but that doesn't mean they should lock me up.

Especially with someone like Striker Draven. As heir to the Draven fortune, he thinks he can have whatever he wants. He wants to pull me apart, rip out my power, and take my heart with it.

That's if I don't rip his out first.

My name is Peyton Price. My freedom is going to come at a cost. Body and mind, I have to decide if I'm willing to pay it.

This is a full length, 100,000 word dark academy romance, the first in the Assassin's Academy series. An enemies to lovers romance for fans of action and intrigue. Set in the Assassin's Magic world.

**Recommended reading age is 17+ due to language and heat level.

322 pages, ebook

First published October 11, 2019

625 people are currently reading
1122 people want to read

About the author

Everly Frost

47 books1,121 followers
USA Today bestselling author Everly Frost writes fantasy romance and paranormal romance with badass female leads and morally grey heroes who fall first. When she isn't dreaming up spicy enemies to lovers romances, she's binge-watching Lord of the Rings, tending to her fur baby, or learning to sew. Subscribe to Everly's newsletter for a free novella today!

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5 stars
507 (45%)
4 stars
355 (31%)
3 stars
183 (16%)
2 stars
55 (4%)
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14 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
Profile Image for Al *the semi serial series skipper*.
1,659 reviews850 followers
January 25, 2021
I really enjoyed this book as well. I think you have to be in a certain mind frame to read this one because I can see myself disliking it if I had read it at any other time.

Peyton is abandoned at a school for people with repressed magical talent, she is worse because she doesn't even know what her magic is so she is labeled as Unknown. There is another Unknown in this school and that's Striker, he has been there since the inception of the school and is a menace to everyone.

When Peyton gets there , he is convinced she is a spy as the Academy has been known to implant spies as students before. He is convinced to avoid her and continue his search for a way to leave the school. Only things don't go as planned because Peyton keeps drawing him in with her fierceness and viciousness.

Now this is where the right mind frame talk comes into play. Several of the students have been there for years and they haven't figured out their powers( except Striker who knows what he is) and immediately Peyton gets to the school she is figuring out everyones powers. She knows all the myths and how to bring out their beast even though the teachers have tried over and over again. I understand that maybe her power made that possible but I still think it could have been written better. She was such a know-it-all so fast when the few pages prior it seemed that she was secluded when she lived with her family.

The plot was all over the place though, especially towards the end.

Still, a pretty good book.

Profile Image for ♦♣ queen of faerie ♠♥.
264 reviews205 followers
June 28, 2020
Errr...

It was a good read, at times I was just really confused.

Bloodwing school - the setting of this whole story, but nothing is explained about actual academy, where it came from, why is it such a prison, what are unknowns, what are other people, can anyone be anything, why do people come here in the first place? So many questions.

The romance was not good - I did not see the romance being good. It was a enemies-to-lovers romance, except that Peyton just made everything worse and KEPT WINING.

The whole plot just confused me - are we rebelling here? Spying on teachers? Leading a rebellion? Trying to survive the pit? WHERE WAS THIS HEADING?????? Answer: nowhere, it seems.


→2.5 stars
Profile Image for Renée.
862 reviews134 followers
October 16, 2019
This story is about Peyton Price and her admission to Bloodwing Academy for the Magically Repressed...but for Peyton with her abilities being unknown, her first step into the academy isn’t the greatest start. But with a strong and determine character her adventure at the academy is one you’ll be drawn into.

————————

Assassin’s Academy - Book One: Rebels by Everly Frost is the next book following the Assassin’s Magic series. These are stand-alone series, but I would recommend reading the Assassin’s Magic series first.

Again Everly Frost has written a captivating and brilliant world, characters and storyline with this enemies to lovers academy book. There’s chemistry, action and a little darker element in this book. Plus there’s a few characters from the Assassin’s Magic series that have crept into this story, that I wasn’t expecting.

I can’t wait to continue this series with the second book - Revenge and see where Everly Frost takes this series.
Profile Image for Heather Renee.
Author 69 books713 followers
October 13, 2019
Devoured!!!

This was an incredibly addictive book! I loved everything about it and can’t wait until the last installment is available! Everly drew me in and I was a happy prison of Bloodwing Academy!
Profile Image for Blendy.
430 reviews112 followers
January 11, 2020
I didn't read the spin-off series to this, the one that came before it, before I started this, and I kind of wish that I had. While it's not imperative that you read the other series for you to understand this one, it still references a lot of characters that obviously have a background, and I think it would have really enhanced my reading experience if I had started with the other series first.

While this is a good start to a typical NA paranormal, university romance, it didn't give me anything really that would set it apart from the other like-minded series that are out there. Peyton is your typical "oh my, look how powerful I am and my family is soo mean to me" FMC, and Striker is the typical tortured soul (who really has an enormous heart) bad boy MMC. Don't get me wrong - I eat that shit up and love reading it, but it's not anything that I haven't read before.

I'll definitely continue this series and hope that things become more remarkable and less predictable as it goes on.
Profile Image for ꧁༺ L̴E̴X̴I̴E̴ ༻꧂.
179 reviews55 followers
September 20, 2022
...I know that I want him in my life, imperfections and all... He’s more open to me than he’s ever been and I need him to know how much that means to me. All I want is truth between us.
"I will hate you furiously to the end of my days, Striker Draven. With all my heart and soul."


Ah, I always appreciate a good enemies to lovers done right and this took that up a notch. Who says love and hate don't go together?

And, oh look. I found the perfect picture to sum up this book.

description

I haven't read Everly Frost's other Assassin's series so I wasn't familiar with the setting, which is maybe why I found myself struggling to find the plot in this book. It also seemed to lack the rich world building that Frost's other books have usually established. In this case though, I was happy enough to overlook the ambiguous plot and just follow along with the characters. I was right there for Peyton and Striker. Those two were just made for each other.

Tragic background? ✅
Asshole parents? ✅
Questionable lack of self preservation? ✅

The best aspect of this story, besides a bunch of abused and outcast people finding their own inner strength and friendship with each other, was seeing Peyton and Striker's relationship develop. It had some bullying in it without crossing the line and while Striker himself seemed like a ruthless character, we actually get to find out that he has some honorable morals, especially when it comes to his fellow academy classmates and Peyton. What's really nice though is the respect that grows between the two of them as he sees her become stronger in harshest of circumstances. Yes, there's the physical attraction because duh, this is fiction we're talking about here but the strength of character and skill that he appreciates in Peyton is also clear.

“I see… curves and legs, lips that snap at me, and eyes that promise she’ll kill me in my sleep. I see a woman who guards her boundaries and isn’t afraid to tell me to get fucked.”


favorite quote right there

I'm looking forward to the next book. Hopefully, I'll see a more developed world and clearer plot structure.
Profile Image for Sristy.
200 reviews11 followers
May 21, 2020
2.5 Stars .
Why did I pick this book up ?
↠ I had read the Assassin Magic series and LOVED it.I had hoped this would be something along those lines.
↠ It is based on the same world as Assassin's Magic Series which is a plus as
⇒ I had loved the world building of that series.
⇒ Even if it turns out shit I wouldn't consider it a waste. because the Most Annoying Thing in Fantasy (MATF™) is when the book skied down the road to shit-hole after your investment in its World building.
↠ It is based on assassins. Duh!

Then why 2.5 Stars ?

↠ This first half of the book was precariously hanging between YA and an Adult Fantasy.Technically it was new adult.But I don't recall any of NA I have read yet that slide so close to YA. And so you must be wondering what the fish is the problem ? The problem is I liked a YA rarer than a blue moon.And the latter half completely YAish to me.I would give details but I am just too lazy now.

Anyways I did read the next book because THIS one ends at a CLIFF HANGER.But I must say that I completely skimmed or shall I say skipped through the book.I read the first chapter from Hunter Cassidy (Assassin Magic series) perspective and used a find option to skim.I read the last 50-60 pages completely. All in all the end felt okayish to me.

PS:I am more tolerant than my normal in this review.It may have something to do with my dry spell with a Non-Reread Fantasy.
Profile Image for Tassi (Read Ramble Repeat).
395 reviews67 followers
October 5, 2019
Okay guys you going to have to bear with me on this review…I have so many emotions running through my mind right now….but lets start with the easy stuff aye. So as you all know the ARC of this book just recently came through from an awesome author friend Everly Frost. The book release date is hoping to be brought in to about the 15th October.

Now onto the trickier information. The information is all in my brain but its the whole transferring that into words that’s the problem.



But sometimes the transferring process is messy and full of craziness and rambles. But well if you haven’t learnt by the name of the blog…what more can I say lol.

Everly has turned up the dial for this one…believe me you won’t be cold. nahuh.



Everly definitely cranks that dial…instead of heat level being on hot…no, no. It’s more catastrophic levels where from the moment you start reading, it tears at your heart and your just like “oh its all good, I’m just burning from the intensity your story is bringing me. Don’t mind me.”



Oh and if that’s not enough it’ll feel like this is happening a million times over and over throughout the WHOLE book.



There won’t be a moments pause. There will be some downtown but yeah no not really enough to help you gather your fragile little pieces back together…so just grab some duct tape and you’ll be good.



Everly was kind enough to warn us of the intensity and stress levels of this book, so one book nerd to another this is me relaying her warning.



But don’t let this stop you from reading the book! The best books written are the ones that make you feel something…and if this book doesn’t do that, honestly I don’t know what will.

Okay a little bit about the story. It starts off with Peyton being taken, forcibly, to this school for the supernaturals where their abilities have been repressed or unknown. It’s a school that basically has a one way ticket, there is no escaping and those who do…leave in a bodybag.



But honestly just throw all caution to the wind…there is no script to follow and honestly you get so involved in the book that even if your brain was working properly it would be pointless. I was so uncertain at times where Everly was going to take me and was just like…



Ehh whatever lets just ride this crazy train and see where it takes me.

One thing is made very clear from the beginning. This school is no normal school. This is a school designed to try and make everyone there, show their abilities in whatever way the Bloodwing teachers feel fit. So basically I’m saying torture. They rough them up, put them in a pit in the dark with these creatures that are meant to be practically un-killable, slice and dice them, make them punch wooden posts and a tonne of other crazy stuff. All in the “name” of getting them to show their powers. The running theory is that with fear that’s when powers show and they really do wrap their hands tightly around that. These teachers are insane and know no limits.



On Peyton’s first day at the school the Headmistress Osprey and her newly assigned compliance guards work some magic on her trying to pull out what her supernatural ability is. Aside from causing her a hell of a lot of pain, they are able to determine nothing. With that happening she is marked as an “Unknown” which is extremely rare. All current students have shown some sign towards where their abilities may lie but aside from one other Striker Draven they are the only ones that are “Unknown”, classing them as a danger. Hence she is secluded in the attic with him. For the “safety” of everyone else. Yeah right! *rolls eyes*

The thing though is that Mr Draven has a reputation…and it isn’t a good one. He’s mean, cold and rough and likes to push around students. And he is not happy with the new addition to the mix and so he sets his sites on her. But nothing is ever as it seems right? There’s more to the story…the academy has put the students through a lot and they are slow to trust…and Draven his heart has been shut off for way too long (it’s a long story – just know I still love him). Time for Peyton to come and shake some things up…and she isn’t afraid to stand up to him. She’s ready to go head to head with him. Do you reckon she’ll be able to find his heart and finally make him feel again?

“One day, I will rip out your heart, Striker Draven,” I whisper. “I’m sure you’ll survive without it, since you already do.”

So through all this intensity and world, we see a fire that is burning so bright and deep inside each student. Each one has been through hell. And although friendships in a place like Bloodwing is dangerous…that doesn’t stop them from forming connections and friendships that truly touch your heart.



They start to fight, they start to learn about their powers and they learn that giving in isn’t something that is in their blood. Each one start working together to help avoid being killed. You see there are stages within the Academy and you are put through different phases as the teachers learn about their abilities (can you guess they aren’t good phases right?). But with each phase that is meant to help them “control” their powers can cause what is called a “Flicker” fit. Without saying too much…when this happens its B-A-D…and if the teachers or compliance officers notice? Its bye-bye to that person. And this then becomes me ↓ and probably you next.



I can’t express how much goes down in this book…I’ve only just barely scraped at the surface but please believe me on this you do not want to miss this intense read! Yes it pulls at your heart strings, yes you feel like your going crazy and HELL YEEESS you will need that book nerd safety kit I talked about because this book brings EVERYTHING! You will not be bored, you will be pulled into this book like Harry Potter is pulled into the pages of Tom’s journal.



You will probably want to cry but you will love it with every fibre of your being. The characters and world Everly has created in this book is phenomenal. The friendships and fighting spirit of these characters just can’t be overlooked. You won’t want to. And one little secret between you and me…these students are waaaaay more powerful than the world is prepared for. Think real big. No time for thinking small.

All I can say, with that ending and with everything that goes down…Peyton, Striker, Lucinda, Ashley hell everyone. Their role in everything just reached new proportions. But they’ll be ready. They have to be. I’ll accept nothing else.



For lovers of the Assassin’s Magic book this is a MUST read. I was speaking to Everly and this book takes place during the end of Assassin’s Maze. You will hear things throughout this book that connect to the story and because I can’t help myself…guess who is the founder of Bloodwing Academy?….Lady Tirelli! GASP

That explains a lot now right about the academy aye?!

But I just found my magic little unicorn and he’s making me zip my lips closed. So that’s all I’m sharing. Aside from this one little quote. *speaks through side of lip as the unicorn zipper magic starts to work*

“She fixes her gaze on me, her bruised cheek dark and blotchy in the sunlight, a wry smile on her lips. “Besides, if there’s a good time to rebel a little, it’s now before they get a new beast for the pit.” She holds out to me the rose she just cut. “Come sit with us at dinner.”

There’s a question in her voice. I consider the flower. She’s right. I’m not going to survive on my own, especially not with Striker gunning for me every time I turn around. The more I observe the academy and its teachers, the more I realise that I’ll need help if I’m ever going to get out of here. And maybe… some of the other students will come with me. I reach out and grasp the flower. It’s time to take a chance on friendship.”


I will carry across Everly’s warning though that this is a dark YA Academy style book and I wouldn’t really recommend a younger audience to read due to some of the content. It’s definitely aimed at a more mature audience. So please do keep that in mind.

I am SOOOO ready for the next book in this series and I’m so excited for you guys to read this. So don’t forget to Pre-order or buy this baby because a book like this shouldn’t be missed.

Thank you so much Everly for having me on your ARC team, it is truly an honour to be there and to share with you all your successes…and this will be another one. ❤

I'm truly amazed if you made it this far in my crazy ramble of a review. So thank you lol.

Happy Reading My Book Nerdy Friends


Profile Image for Izzy ♡ boom, boom, fucking boom.
337 reviews62 followers
February 22, 2020
3.5 stars

Firstly, two small things I loved about this book: the characters were aged 20+ and there was no requisite (is this the word I'm looking for??) mean girl that is usually present in books set in a school/academy. But this is probably because the students have waaaay more serious problems to deal with because 1) the school is a hellhole and 2) the outside world doesn't seem too nice either.

So this book starts off with Peyton being chucked into an academy for magically repressed Supernaturals. Most students in the academy have shown signs of their supernatural ability and just aren't able to control it, but Peyton and another student- Striker- are Unknown. This means they have shown no signs of any ability at all.

As mentioned, the school S U C K S. The things that the teachers do to the students, all in the name of discovering and controlling their powers... *shudders*. However, the students find strength and friendship in each other, which made my sappy heart cryyy- especially for Peyton.
Having shown no signs of supernatural ability meant that Peyton was bullied throughout her life, both by people at school and her own family. She literally had no one, and the loneliness she felt... oh, I felt that. Peyton craved love and friendship and you can't help but not be happy for her when she gets it :') Having said that, Peyton is freaking crazy- but in a badass way.
Also, it was really interesting to piece together pieces of information here and there and figure out the abilities of students.

As for the relationship between Striker and Peyton... sometimes they were sweet, sometimes they were annoying and sometimes they were sassy- what more could you want?

Profile Image for Shelley.
5,598 reviews489 followers
January 28, 2020
*Source* Kindle
*Genre* New Adult, Paranormal
*Rating* 4.0

*Thoughts*

Rebels is the first book in a two part series called Assassin's Academy. This book is set in the same universe as the authors previous series Assassin's Magic featuring Hunter Cassidy and Slade Baines who make appearances in this series as well. Event's in this book, begin before the events that happen in Assassins' Maze. 20-year old Peyton Price is being dropped off at Bloodwing Academy for the magically repressed by her family. It’s a school that has a one way ticket. There's no escape. The only way to leave is via body bag.

*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*

https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Heather Rainwater-Alvarado.
399 reviews18 followers
July 1, 2023
Expect the Unexpected – And Brace for an Awesome DARK Story!

When I read the series branch name “Assassin’s Academy” – I was expecting it to be similar to the “Assassin’s Magic” series featuring a different assassin’s guild. It is NOT. But I enjoyed it JUST as much as that series, which I think is my favorite so far of Frost’s. The world she has created is dark, expansive, unique, and utterly captivating. Despite reading about the type of creature Peyton is, the storytelling is so good that I had no clue what she was until it was revealed. Nor what Striker is. And WOW Striker. He’s the first true (what I would call) Alphahole that I’ve read, and he’s just sooooo well done. He’s the perfect balance of violence, brutality, and surprisingly honor. Everything he does has a reason, and despite his tough façade, he ends up really having good intentions for the other students. And Peyton really is his perfect match.

Frost has already introduced soooo many mythical creatures, but she keeps fascinating and surprising me by adding more to the mix. Everyone is so unique. Although the secondary characters remain pretty vague for the most part, she still gives them a sense of depth to them by casting them in this dark DARK storyline. Be forewarned, this is probably the darkest book I’ve read of hers to date and is not for the feint of heart. And the ending is just so completely unexpected that I really don’t know what to expect next. I’m so glad I’m backreading books previously published because I need the next one NOW! I love this world!!!
Profile Image for Michelle Fritz PA.
1,357 reviews99 followers
October 12, 2019
Oh my ancient babies!! This academy is filled with monsters of unusual kinds. The magic users who run it are truly vial, sadistic and bird brained. Bloodwing is the ultimate prison with a singular goal set in stone. Beat out the hidden powers to serve a high calling. Bullies rule and using violence is encouraged. This was the most unusual academy tale that I've ever read. I actually loved it and couldn't put it down. I just had to see how the dynamics between Striker and Peyton played out. Who would ultimately dominate the other and how much collateral damage would they wreak. It was thrilling to see how strong Peyton grew and how increasingly difficult it was for Striker to keep his distance. The ending will make you long for an epic throwdown, or maybe just a well placed throat punch. Ms. Frost never fails to get your mind racing or your pulse pumping. She packs a lot of heat into her words and uses them to create the ultimate reading adventure! Most definitely one click anything she writes, you won't be disappointed. 💗💗💗💗
Profile Image for Angel.
276 reviews17 followers
October 15, 2019
Just wow!

I have been on a total academy series kick lately. First of all, this is not RH, yay!!!! I feel like every academy romance lately is RH. So it's got that going for it right off the bat. I absolutely loved the twists thrown into this story with the "Unknowns" and what we learn they all seem to be. Don't start reading this before bedtime, I learned my lesson the hard way, you will lose sleep! The next book in the series can't come quick enough, I want it now! I have to know what happens with Peyton and Striker next!
Profile Image for Aleia L.
683 reviews5 followers
January 24, 2020
💭


That ending definitely left me wanting more!! Peyton is fierce and I absolutely loved her! The magically repressed are treated horribly at the academy to try to force their magic out of them and then force them to become part of an army. Some students were able to help each other hide to keep each other safe. Then they all were able to rebel with Peyton and Draven leading the way! I wasn’t sure what to expect next and I can’t wait to read the next book!
Profile Image for Denny.
42 reviews8 followers
November 15, 2020
Review in facts :

Concept/Plot: This book is the first in the Assassins Academy series, but technically book 5 in the Assassins magic world. The story runs parallel to the the assassins magic books starting with the end of book 2 from Assassins magic. Since the characters from the Assassins magic books also appear in this book and play and important role, I’d recommend reading the assassins magic books prior to this series.

World building: the whole book takes place in a hidden academy called bloodwing academy. The descriptions of said Academy were done very well and I was able to imagine everything like it was a movie. The surrounding world is the same as in the previous series

Writing style: written in first person present tense POV. Only this time we get to follow two different POVs - which is my absolute favourite type of POV! Everly Frost has a gift of making me feel all the emotions that the characters were feeling. She does it in a way that forced me to pause multiple times to catch my breath and make sure that I’m okay 😂. Needless to say I really enjoyed the writing style

Character development: yes mentally, physically and... magically. In the end I’d say this book is definitely plot driven though.

Pacing: fast

Interesting/unique magical system: there’s magical creatures and objects (wands, rings, runes, etc.)

Magical beings/creatures: yes, (e.g. elements/creatures of Norse and Greek mythology)

Strong heroine/hero: yes, Peyton is strong but vulnerable at the same time

Villains with motives: yes, a whole bunch of them. Written in a way that made me hate them instantly.

Favourite characters: Peyton and Lucinda

Facts about side characters/relationship of side characters and MC: Peyton won’t have to fight the bad guys alone for long - is all I’m going to say. The moment that becomes clear warmed my heart

***************************

** ! SPOILERY FACTS BELOW ! **

! Trigger Warnings: violence, blood, fighting, killing

Violence: yes, fighting scenes, blood, killing
Romance: yes, enemies to lovers
o Love triangle/cheating: no
o RH (reverse harem): no
o Sexual content: no
HEA : no
Character deaths: yes
Cliffhanger: yes

*******************************

Recommend: yes
Re read / or would re read in the future: yes, I would re read this series
If you liked this you might also enjoy: tbd
Profile Image for PepperP0t .
5,108 reviews86 followers
March 30, 2025
During her 20 years, Peyton Price hasn’t manifested power angering her family. They leave her at Bloodwing Academy for the Magically Repressed, secretly founded by Lady Tirelli, where cruel witches and wizards reign. Only Peyton and Striker Draven don’t show an ounce of power. Peyton’s smart, a life of abuse and cruelty makes her keep her own counsel; Striker’s more aware of Tirelli’s plan for the ‘students’ than the taskmasters know, he’s adapted and stymies them when he can.

Peyton’s able to slowly recognize the students species, she quietly tells them and they secretly practice what they need. Peyton and Striker were on a floor alone to torment each other but they like each other enough for a tentative friendship. When the teachers realize Tirelli’s gone, Peyton has a secret they want and Striker won’t join their cause, the teachers decide it’s time to close the school… permanently!
Rating: 4stars
Profile Image for Andra.
1,037 reviews15 followers
April 26, 2025
Book 5 in Assassin's Magic series

An action-packed, magic-enhanced, academy journey with unknown supernaturals. This book is packed with pitfalls, trials, impossible decisions, unlikely friendships, and trust. it's a little on the darker side than the other books and includes some torturous scenes, but I loved all the emotions that this book pulled from me. I enjoyed reading the characters growth and connections with each other. Rebels works somewhat in the background to the already overall developing storyline. Sometimes overcoming our past hurts is a long-haul journey. Immediately starting book 6.

"I need to accept that my life is going to be hell for a while, but I won't accept my fate. I'm going to bide my time. Plan. Proceed carefully."
Profile Image for Mima.
279 reviews3 followers
June 5, 2025
Bloodwing Academy is no school—it’s a cage, and I’m the monster they’re waiting to lock down. I’m an Unknown, a ticking time bomb of magic waiting to go off, stripped of control and choices. But I refuse to be anyone’s victim.

Enter Striker Draven—lethal, gorgeous, and infuriatingly powerful. He’s everything I should avoid, yet every stare, every clash, pulls us deeper into something neither of us can fight. He wants my power. My heart. Maybe even my soul.

But I’m not giving in without a war.

This story burns. The tension, the slow-burn enemies-to-lovers heat, the high-stakes magic and rebellion—it’s the kind of book you devour in one breathless sitting. A fierce heroine, a ruthless hero, and a battle that’s just beginning? Yes, please. Bloodwing Academy is my new obsession.
634 reviews17 followers
July 7, 2025
Book 5 in the Assassin’s Magic series is fantastic! This follows new characters, as Peyton is sent to a magical academy to find out what her latent powers are and learn to control them so she does place herself and everyone close to her in danger when they surface. Calling it an academy is generous though as they go through trials and torture in the name of learning. I was hooked right away and really liked reading about Peyton and her journey. And Striker is hot! This story is definitely a bit dark at times with lots of ups and downs and the ending made me need the next book like yesterday! Fortunately it’s out already so I don’t have to wait to find out what will happen. This is another must read if you love urban fantasy!
23 reviews
January 16, 2022
I devoured the Assassins Magic series before starting on this book. The worldbuilding is fantastic and the characters have proper arcs. This academy series continues to extend this universe and I hope the author continues to write other spinoffs.

I have to disagree with the previous reviewer on the point that you need to be in a certain frame of mind when reading this. Without giving anything away, it makes sense that Peyton is able to help the students figure out their powers because she isn't forcing them through fear (like the teachers) and it's also an indicator of one of her own powers starting to develop.
Profile Image for Tanya Courtney.
478 reviews11 followers
May 1, 2025
This book gives us a new FMC and MC for the Assassin's series and is an supernatural academy style read with tie ins to the main series.

Peyton and Striker along with the other young adults at the academy are there to be trained as soldiers as their families didn't want them or couldn't keep them due to their unknown status or lack of supernatural ability. They are a band of misfits who come together by the end of the book and are more like family.

This book gives you a glimpse into their lives and the set up for the academy storyline. It's really good but you do initially miss the guys from the first part of the series.
Profile Image for Brigette G.
206 reviews
September 19, 2022
I am obsessed with this fantasy academy series. Considering the minuscule amount of steam.. that’s saying something. Unknowns. Monsters. Magic wands. Brutal encounters. Trapped. Flicker Fits.

Peyton & Striker - enemies to lovers. This story intertwines with the other Assassins Magic Series, with a mention of Hunter & Slade (glad I read those first!).

Look, we all just want a HEA for these two - they are ragey and frickin adorable. Ms Frost, please don’t deny me this or I might have a flicker fit myself ;P
Profile Image for Rachel.
328 reviews11 followers
July 12, 2020
I guess I knew going into this that it would be a darker book, but I guess I didn’t realize it would verge on abusive and psychologically damaged.

The only reason for the 3rd star is because I DID finish it. It had enough interesting questions to make me want to find out more, but I put the book down for several days and didn’t even have a desire to pick it back up. And once I did finish it, there wasn’t enough there to make me want to read book 2.

Going to avoid this author in the future.
Profile Image for Dayzee.
929 reviews14 followers
January 29, 2021
💀🩸there will be blood🩸💀

😱O.M.G. Wow. This academy is 💀. Read at your own risk! Deadly Supernaturals like No other!! im still trying to figure out what the hell just happened!!! Action, Gory, enemies to crazy Frenemies to a crazy love story! Striker and Peyton are insane. They legit give me Harvey Quinn and Joker vibes!! THEY ARE CRAZY!!! and together... nobody has a chance! That ending tho..had me like 😱🤬😈 Bring it B! Its on like don-king-kong 😈😈😈 MUST READ!!!
Profile Image for Lisa.
914 reviews39 followers
February 16, 2021
3.5 stars.

I just fancied something a little more in the fantasy realm and thought I’d give this a go.
The main character is Peyton and she is a great kick-ass strong, female character. I liked her, I didn’t love her or any of the characters really but for a touch of escapism, this book did the job.

It didn’t blow me away but had an interesting premise so I’m going to try the next one in the series as well.
No recommendation from me just yet. X
Profile Image for Levia.
1,380 reviews16 followers
October 15, 2022
Great read, but frustrating ending

I love when an author takes a seemingly weak woman and molds her into a badazz powerhouse. The interplay between Striker and Peyton is dizzying in its push-me-pull-you attraction and negative aggression. I'm absolutely unimpressed with the ending and the blurb for the next book. I'm sure the series will have a happy ending but the path towards it seems a bit daunting.
276 reviews1 follower
August 30, 2021
Good read

It’s a good read with tons of action and great characters. Frost never disappoints with her story telling. It’s a quick read but the second book is already out so you can plow ahead at your own pace. I would suggest reading the Assassin series first just so you have some background on what’s going on in this world.
Profile Image for Susan.
1,405 reviews1 follower
April 16, 2025
This book was everything a great urban fantasy/dark romance should be, and then some. Characters you love to hate and those who are more than they first appear add depth and drama to the unfolding story. While it ends on a cliffhanger, the next book in the series is already available, so the pain levels are easily reduced. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Soxie.
372 reviews
April 25, 2025
The story runs parallel to the the assassins magic books. I was a little confused on where it fit in but the more i read it made more sence to me. Since the characters from the Assassins magic books also appear in this book and play and important role. There is a cliffhanger but the next book is out already so it wont hurt so bad.
Profile Image for Kai.
27 reviews
April 11, 2020
I had high hopes for this book because I absolutely loved the Assassin’s Magic series and this is supposed to be a spin-off, but this just didn’t do it for me. It felt as if another author wrote this book.
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