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Wraithwood Academy #1
The Shadow Student
I'm not who you think I am.
My enemies aren't who you think they are.
Welcome to Wraithwood Academy.
My father is dead. And my mother's enemies smell opportunity. To save us both, I’ll have to navigate the troubled waters of Wraithwood Academy, seeking allies and outsmarting enemies among the heirs to the country's most powerful mage families.
The vicious, gorgeous Nightfeld brothers think they know me. Cly Redbriar, the weak daughter of a powerful father. A spoiled, scared little girl hiding behind her bodyguard. Nothing but a new plaything for the kings of Wraithwood.
They know nothing.
Because I’ve been forced to live a twisted lie.
See, I’m not really Cly Redbriar…
My enemies aren't who you think they are.
Welcome to Wraithwood Academy.
My father is dead. And my mother's enemies smell opportunity. To save us both, I’ll have to navigate the troubled waters of Wraithwood Academy, seeking allies and outsmarting enemies among the heirs to the country's most powerful mage families.
The vicious, gorgeous Nightfeld brothers think they know me. Cly Redbriar, the weak daughter of a powerful father. A spoiled, scared little girl hiding behind her bodyguard. Nothing but a new plaything for the kings of Wraithwood.
They know nothing.
Because I’ve been forced to live a twisted lie.
See, I’m not really Cly Redbriar…
167 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 25, 2019
1587 people are currently reading
2413 people want to read
About the author
Teresa Hann
13 books130 followersTeresa Hann writes tales of magic and mayhem where fierce heroines win their hard-fought happy endings. She likes her storylines twisty, her worlds complex, and her romances involving at least a little stabbing. She lives in the Midwest with her family and her excessive number of houseplants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
July 23, 2019
Rating: 4 stars
The Shadow Student could be considered as an other take on the current bully romance trope.
Cassandra's story was just sad. Born from a human mother, she was used by her father's family as a magical battery for her half sister. She is treated like a slave while her mom is taken hostage so she will comply to their every demand. Her once and only friend now act as a douchey bodyguard for the bratty princess and Cass is left abused, barely fed or even hydrated.
When her sister Cly takes off for Wraithwood Academy, she has to follow to be drained but keeps hope of gaining some knowledge to one day be able to escape.
But Cly is a spoiled, vindictive bitch and on day one already made enemies and a reputation for herself. On day two, she is left hanging by her skirt, showing her underwear to the whole school. On day three, she casts an illusion on Cassandra to have her bullied in her stead.
But Cassandra has something Cly does not have: brains and some goodness. She will manage to befriend people, stand her ground and eventually turn the odds in her favor.
This book was both original and heartbreaking on so many level. I felt helpless along with Cassandra more than I wish I had. Some characters were hateful, some confusing and some really disappointing. And while I do not mind hardship in a story, I just hope everything will go well for Cassandra from now on. She deserves the hell out of it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Shadow Student could be considered as an other take on the current bully romance trope.
Cassandra's story was just sad. Born from a human mother, she was used by her father's family as a magical battery for her half sister. She is treated like a slave while her mom is taken hostage so she will comply to their every demand. Her once and only friend now act as a douchey bodyguard for the bratty princess and Cass is left abused, barely fed or even hydrated.
When her sister Cly takes off for Wraithwood Academy, she has to follow to be drained but keeps hope of gaining some knowledge to one day be able to escape.
But Cly is a spoiled, vindictive bitch and on day one already made enemies and a reputation for herself. On day two, she is left hanging by her skirt, showing her underwear to the whole school. On day three, she casts an illusion on Cassandra to have her bullied in her stead.
But Cassandra has something Cly does not have: brains and some goodness. She will manage to befriend people, stand her ground and eventually turn the odds in her favor.
This book was both original and heartbreaking on so many level. I felt helpless along with Cassandra more than I wish I had. Some characters were hateful, some confusing and some really disappointing. And while I do not mind hardship in a story, I just hope everything will go well for Cassandra from now on. She deserves the hell out of it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 31, 2019
This is a attempt at a cutesy YA RH ... yes you read that right. This is not read like a slow burn it reads like
Girl (MC) is born from a union between high mage and human making her super powerful, however the high mages other daughter (our MC half sister) (a union between two mages) is weak weak weak... so
Girl is forced to be a magical battery for 10 or so years locked up in the high mages house ... then off to Harry Potter high. But our MC half sister is a nasty coward 2D character who reads like a dodgy Nickelodeon special. So coward sister hates being weak and decides to make our MC take school in her place. But everything is very YA in that no one is truely traumatised there is no PTSD , it’s all brushed /glossed over ..
Ok that’s basically the premise ... the genre is suppose to be YA but the “harem” are more interested in checking each other out than in HER and they buy her panties and bras and other clothes ... I’m sorry they come across not exactly into her in that way... it didn’t feel like a slow burn. I felt ZERO heat while reading this. And our MC’s mother is also locked up at the high mages castle thing so our MC wants to get her back.. which
Girl (MC) is born from a union between high mage and human making her super powerful, however the high mages other daughter (our MC half sister) (a union between two mages) is weak weak weak... so
Girl is forced to be a magical battery for 10 or so years locked up in the high mages house ... then off to Harry Potter high. But our MC half sister is a nasty coward 2D character who reads like a dodgy Nickelodeon special. So coward sister hates being weak and decides to make our MC take school in her place. But everything is very YA in that no one is truely traumatised there is no PTSD , it’s all brushed /glossed over ..
Ok that’s basically the premise ... the genre is suppose to be YA but the “harem” are more interested in checking each other out than in HER and they buy her panties and bras and other clothes ... I’m sorry they come across not exactly into her in that way... it didn’t feel like a slow burn. I felt ZERO heat while reading this. And our MC’s mother is also locked up at the high mages castle thing so our MC wants to get her back.. which
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August 15, 2019
3.5 stars - would have been higher but I disliked some of the author's choices.
In my day-to-day life, I would describe myself as a very controlled person. I dislike emotionality, all my work is done decades before the deadline, and I plan out my day in half-hour increments (my diary is legendary among my friends). In fact, the only place where I really let myself be impulsive is in my book download decisions.
This was one such impulsive decision, and it was a great one.
Hann's writing is great - clear, flows well, and without major typos. She clearly has an excellent editor. The story itself is pretty good too. There's a tight plot, with a complex conception of magic and even some moments of humour. I loved most of the main characters, particularly Acubens (one of the heroes).
Unfortunately, my biggest problem with the book was in its treatment of the villain. The heroine Cassandra's sister, Cly, is a lazy, vicious, spoilt cow. Fair enough. But despite all this, I don't hate her - I find I have some sympathy for her. She lost out on their father's affection for her bastard half-sister; she has limited magical power; and she's never had any friends, so she's deeply susceptible to flattery. I sort of actually want to read a story from her POV now. It felt like the author wanted all us readers to hate her, and that kind of thing always ends up making me have way more sympathy for the villain in question (see also: Crown of Coral and Pearl by Mara Rutherford).
Conversely, while it feels like the author wants us to hate Cly (and I don't), it also feels like she wants us to love Aegis (and I don't). Aegis is Cly's bodyguard and Cass's ex-best friend, who actively helps Cly intimidate and threaten Cass. In fact, he acts EXACTLY THE SAME AS CLY, so I dislike how Cass constantly makes excuses for him and holds out hope for him. If he ends up joining her harem, I'm out.
Also, one of the heroes is pretty much the blandest character ever. Like, I don't even remember his name, and I finished the book a few hours ago. He's presented as an intensely weak 'friend' character for the whole book, so his sudden transition to love interest was jarring and offputting.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
In my day-to-day life, I would describe myself as a very controlled person. I dislike emotionality, all my work is done decades before the deadline, and I plan out my day in half-hour increments (my diary is legendary among my friends). In fact, the only place where I really let myself be impulsive is in my book download decisions.
This was one such impulsive decision, and it was a great one.
Hann's writing is great - clear, flows well, and without major typos. She clearly has an excellent editor. The story itself is pretty good too. There's a tight plot, with a complex conception of magic and even some moments of humour. I loved most of the main characters, particularly Acubens (one of the heroes).
Unfortunately, my biggest problem with the book was in its treatment of the villain. The heroine Cassandra's sister, Cly, is a lazy, vicious, spoilt cow. Fair enough. But despite all this, I don't hate her - I find I have some sympathy for her. She lost out on their father's affection for her bastard half-sister; she has limited magical power; and she's never had any friends, so she's deeply susceptible to flattery. I sort of actually want to read a story from her POV now. It felt like the author wanted all us readers to hate her, and that kind of thing always ends up making me have way more sympathy for the villain in question (see also: Crown of Coral and Pearl by Mara Rutherford).
Conversely, while it feels like the author wants us to hate Cly (and I don't), it also feels like she wants us to love Aegis (and I don't). Aegis is Cly's bodyguard and Cass's ex-best friend, who actively helps Cly intimidate and threaten Cass. In fact, he acts EXACTLY THE SAME AS CLY, so I dislike how Cass constantly makes excuses for him and holds out hope for him. If he ends up joining her harem, I'm out.
Also, one of the heroes is pretty much the blandest character ever. Like, I don't even remember his name, and I finished the book a few hours ago. He's presented as an intensely weak 'friend' character for the whole book, so his sudden transition to love interest was jarring and offputting.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
August 9, 2019
The book was a pleasant surprise
First of let me state that i am not a fan of the bully romance thing that is going around. I've tried several times but end up to annoyed too continue, but with that being said i would consider this book "bully lite". Yes there was some intense moments BUT our FMC did not just sit back and take it, she fought back and gave as good as she got.
I love how most of the book had no focus on romance but on Cass and her trials and tribulations. Betrayals and disappointment. For everything she's gone through, she's still a badass bitch
The only thing i didnt not like was that the romance came out of nowhere especially with one of the guys but overall this was a really amazing book.
No cliffhanger most of the important issues got dealt with in book 1.
I'm very excited to see where book 2 will take us
First of let me state that i am not a fan of the bully romance thing that is going around. I've tried several times but end up to annoyed too continue, but with that being said i would consider this book "bully lite". Yes there was some intense moments BUT our FMC did not just sit back and take it, she fought back and gave as good as she got.
I love how most of the book had no focus on romance but on Cass and her trials and tribulations. Betrayals and disappointment. For everything she's gone through, she's still a badass bitch
The only thing i didnt not like was that the romance came out of nowhere especially with one of the guys but overall this was a really amazing book.
No cliffhanger most of the important issues got dealt with in book 1.
I'm very excited to see where book 2 will take us
July 26, 2019
Hooked from start to finish because getting to the academy locked in the boot of a car is a new one. Cas is everything Cly is not yet she can’t disobey.
The guys names are more wizardy names so a little tricky to remember. Arc and Ben didn’t really stand out compared to the others, it feels like it’s only scratched the surface but I liked them, the contrast between them was interesting . Darshan is sweet and probably the one I felt the most sorry for. Aegis was what the f are you doing most of the time rage. Favourite character was Wraith because yep I like the dark mysterious type. So many secrets.
A little bullying but mild compared to the darker Cinderella treatment and no smut at this point. Pure story yay!
I hated Cly. Lazy, immature, cruel and too stupid to live. Cas was amazing, I liked her strong will and how she isn’t broken from the start of the book. Great start, looking forward to the next one.
The guys names are more wizardy names so a little tricky to remember. Arc and Ben didn’t really stand out compared to the others, it feels like it’s only scratched the surface but I liked them, the contrast between them was interesting . Darshan is sweet and probably the one I felt the most sorry for. Aegis was what the f are you doing most of the time rage. Favourite character was Wraith because yep I like the dark mysterious type. So many secrets.
A little bullying but mild compared to the darker Cinderella treatment and no smut at this point. Pure story yay!
I hated Cly. Lazy, immature, cruel and too stupid to live. Cas was amazing, I liked her strong will and how she isn’t broken from the start of the book. Great start, looking forward to the next one.
August 15, 2019
2.5 Stars
This book has promise... Yet she ends up "with" the guys I have 0 interest in (I feel like the romantic partners should have just been Partners in Crime; they gave me 0 sparks. Also one was portrayed as Gay for 99.9% of the book not bi-sexual so that was confusing as hell). She does nothing with the guys I am interested in.
There is 0 romance in this book. It almost feels like it should have been 0.1 a lead up to the series starting.
There are so many Academy Books that I have read that my expectations at this point are very high and this just fell short. While I am rating this book low I do plan on continuing this series.
This book has promise... Yet she ends up "with" the guys I have 0 interest in (I feel like the romantic partners should have just been Partners in Crime; they gave me 0 sparks. Also one was portrayed as Gay for 99.9% of the book not bi-sexual so that was confusing as hell). She does nothing with the guys I am interested in.
There is 0 romance in this book. It almost feels like it should have been 0.1 a lead up to the series starting.
There are so many Academy Books that I have read that my expectations at this point are very high and this just fell short. While I am rating this book low I do plan on continuing this series.
September 1, 2019
3.5 stars
The Good
Pragmatic, loyal Heroine
Interesting plot set up
The Not So Good
Not sold on the harem right now. They're all kinda terrible.
Felt too easy there at the end
Mom doesn't feel like a real person
Will read the next one though.
The Good
Pragmatic, loyal Heroine
Interesting plot set up
The Not So Good
Not sold on the harem right now. They're all kinda terrible.
Felt too easy there at the end
Mom doesn't feel like a real person
Will read the next one though.
August 13, 2019
I was really surprised how much I loved this book. It had way more story then I’ve come to expect from RH academy books and the construction flowed effortlessly. The editing is on-point so much that I didn’t even notice it was there.
I love Cassandra’s (the FMC) character. She’s not perfect but she tried to help others and rescue her mum - who’s currently a hostage - from her half-sister Cly.
I generally feel like the author wanted us to hate Cly. She was made selfish, self-centred and a bully. Cly has no qualms at forcing Cassandra into awkward and potentially dangerous situations for her own gain. But that said, Cly was born almost powerless into a Great House. Her father basically put her aside in favour of his mistake-with-a-college-student half-blood daughter. Cly spent most of her life sequestered and hidden to not bring the family name to shame and honestly as a reader I want to look past her faults (the many that there are) and feel sorry for her.
I have the problem in reversal when it comes to Aegis. Aegis is Cly’s sworn bodyguard and ex-bestie of Cas’. However much Cas makes excuses for him and tries to befriend him I just can’t help but hate him! The only nice actions I can see are done out of guilt and to try and make himself feel better. I feel like it’s leaning towards Aegis being put into the harem at a later date but so far I haven’t found one redeeming quality in him.
The actual members of the harem (as I can guess - it is slow-burn after all) are Acubens and Arcturus Nightfeld and Darshan whateverhislastnameis. Darshan is portrayed as the main friend throughout most of the book and little romantic attraction is actually portrayed (towards Cassandra). His place in the harem needs more convincing in my opinion though it should definitely happen in a later instalment.
The Nightfeld brothers are harder. We don’t actually get to see a lot of either of their personalities until late game. (Spoiler) Acubens actually starts hitting on Cassandra so perfectly that at one point I even forgot this book is supposed to be RH. If it was just casually PNR then I would’ve been as happy. Their connection is slowly building, but I want to see more!
Arcturus, on the other hand, isn’t shown much yet, so hopefully we’ll get to see more of him later one.
Despite picking some holes in the novel, I really enjoyed this book and can’t actually wait for the next one in the series. In the meanwhile I’ve installed another book by the author (hopefully just as good!)
I love Cassandra’s (the FMC) character. She’s not perfect but she tried to help others and rescue her mum - who’s currently a hostage - from her half-sister Cly.
I generally feel like the author wanted us to hate Cly. She was made selfish, self-centred and a bully. Cly has no qualms at forcing Cassandra into awkward and potentially dangerous situations for her own gain. But that said, Cly was born almost powerless into a Great House. Her father basically put her aside in favour of his mistake-with-a-college-student half-blood daughter. Cly spent most of her life sequestered and hidden to not bring the family name to shame and honestly as a reader I want to look past her faults (the many that there are) and feel sorry for her.
I have the problem in reversal when it comes to Aegis. Aegis is Cly’s sworn bodyguard and ex-bestie of Cas’. However much Cas makes excuses for him and tries to befriend him I just can’t help but hate him! The only nice actions I can see are done out of guilt and to try and make himself feel better. I feel like it’s leaning towards Aegis being put into the harem at a later date but so far I haven’t found one redeeming quality in him.
The actual members of the harem (as I can guess - it is slow-burn after all) are Acubens and Arcturus Nightfeld and Darshan whateverhislastnameis. Darshan is portrayed as the main friend throughout most of the book and little romantic attraction is actually portrayed (towards Cassandra). His place in the harem needs more convincing in my opinion though it should definitely happen in a later instalment.
The Nightfeld brothers are harder. We don’t actually get to see a lot of either of their personalities until late game. (Spoiler) Acubens actually starts hitting on Cassandra so perfectly that at one point I even forgot this book is supposed to be RH. If it was just casually PNR then I would’ve been as happy. Their connection is slowly building, but I want to see more!
Arcturus, on the other hand, isn’t shown much yet, so hopefully we’ll get to see more of him later one.
Despite picking some holes in the novel, I really enjoyed this book and can’t actually wait for the next one in the series. In the meanwhile I’ve installed another book by the author (hopefully just as good!)
September 2, 2019
Not Bad
I enjoyed this book quite a bit, but I think the romance parts should have been left out or introduced a bit earlier. It just seemed to be a little too rushed in my opinion. However, everything else flowed brilliantly and I like that this was a complete story. I will most definitely be reading the next book in this series.
I enjoyed this book quite a bit, but I think the romance parts should have been left out or introduced a bit earlier. It just seemed to be a little too rushed in my opinion. However, everything else flowed brilliantly and I like that this was a complete story. I will most definitely be reading the next book in this series.
August 31, 2019
Pages: 244
My rating (stars): 2
Read other books from this author in the future: no
Somehow I could not relate/connect to the story and cannot explain why exactly. All I can say is I did not feel it. I will not read the next part of this series.
August 22, 2019
Pleasantly surprised!
I was surprised by how much I liked this book. The concept was a new take on some old tropes, which I enjoyed immensely after reading the same books over and over again. I loved the characters, they were all complex and interesting and I want to know more about them. I also enjoyed how this wasn't a major cliffhanger. There was a definite ending that satisfied me (for now).
I have been extremely disappointed wit many authors recently for writing "bully romances" which is an oxymoron and shouldn't exist for the sole fact that it's an awful trope teaching young, impressionable girls that's it's ok for me to treat them like crap, and even to like them for it. This book is not like that. Give it a chance, you won't regret it. I'm eagerly waiting for the next one!
I was surprised by how much I liked this book. The concept was a new take on some old tropes, which I enjoyed immensely after reading the same books over and over again. I loved the characters, they were all complex and interesting and I want to know more about them. I also enjoyed how this wasn't a major cliffhanger. There was a definite ending that satisfied me (for now).
I have been extremely disappointed wit many authors recently for writing "bully romances" which is an oxymoron and shouldn't exist for the sole fact that it's an awful trope teaching young, impressionable girls that's it's ok for me to treat them like crap, and even to like them for it. This book is not like that. Give it a chance, you won't regret it. I'm eagerly waiting for the next one!
July 23, 2019
I HONESTLY HAVE NO WORDS TO DESCRIBE HOW MUCH I LOVE THIS BOOK! All bully romances should be like this one. It feels like every bully romance is so extreme that I can't even understand how the fmc can forgive mc. But in this one, it had a subtlety to it that allowed for a real relationship to actually take place, especially since not all of the three boys were dicks. Cass's story was absolutely heartbreaking; she didn't let her situation keep her down, always looking for a way to save herself and her mom. She was strong, smart and kind- the qualities I love to have in an fmc. I can't wait till the next book comes out!!
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 14, 2019
Very enjoyable read! Not only captured my interest immediately, but held it throughout
Might have been one of two things I would have preferred to be a bit different, a little tweak here a slight adjustment there... Naw, think it's pretty darn good just the way it is!
Might have been one of two things I would have preferred to be a bit different, a little tweak here a slight adjustment there... Naw, think it's pretty darn good just the way it is!
February 18, 2020
With some refinement this book could be great. You have interesting characters. Some true villains, some redeemable villains, a string female character. There isn't a cliffhanger but you are still left with questions about the characters and the world that will bring you back for the next book.
The climax is kind of a non climax. There is no big battle or seemingly insurmountable odds. It's kind of just a business deal. The relationship aspect comes out pf left field leaving you with whiplash.
Spoilers from here on out
For the reader's benefit don't give three of the four guys in the books names that start with A. I was constantly trying to remember which guy the author was talking about, and I've already forgotten all of their names five minutes after finishing the book.
I think this would have done better for the series being broken down into two books. Have more character and relationship development going on in book 1. Have Cass getting clashes with the A brothers, Cly being a lazy self entitled b, vassel A touching more on their past bond, tormented by the current state of thing, yet continuously making the wrong choices. Have Cass slowly building a bond with D through their project, earning his trust so that when she ends up at the party and cornered into a dual his joining her makes sense. The dual should be the climax to the first book. She is going go battle it out against insurmountable odds, her sister cackling in the background, her power not fully restored, her mom's life brought further into the balance, i.e. you should probably win of you want your mom to have two arms at the end of the day. Book 1 should end with Cass stumbling away from the victory and passing out.
Book 2 should pick up right after. They are struggling to get through midterms. The A bros are not happy, but younger A seems like his heart isn't into being a jerk. They end up having to share a study space and are not happy about it. They raise hell, but aren't able to get separate study spaces because the amended request would have to be made by their parents, and only their parents no matter their level of incapacity or b-iness, and Cass obviously can get permission because Cly thinks it is hilarious, the guys we don't know why permission is withheld. It should probably be revealed later that wrath somehow meddled and resulted in the shared room, because of course he would. In these forced study sessions walls slowly begin falling, we get to reads days of flirting and ever increasing niceties, like a begrudgingly compliment as Cass and D work on a circle for their project and the A bros reluctantly admit that they were impressed buy her circles trick and ask her to explain. At first she won't share because duh, they are her enemy, but eventually she starts amusing herself by sticking some.sort of stickers on them via magic (like weird little kid stickers) to see how many she can get stuck on the A bros without them noticing. They eventually do, she explains stickers, younger A has all bust dropped the hostility now and she is crushing on him even more. Older A is still a cold jerk. Younger A discovers post notes pranks and covers the whole study room in them. Laughs are had by Cass and Younger A, the date is arranged.
Speaking of that date, just chapters before we had been told Cass would never be allowed into the human world because of the risk (I'm not clear what that risk would be. Mages don't fear humans. They have her mom. It doesn't sound like you can disappear from a mage so...what risk?) We need to be given a really good reason why vessel A lets Cass as Cly go out into the human world on this date, and building a relationship isn't enough. Vessel A should have at least said no it's too dangerous or no Red whatever would lower themselves to dining amount humans how dare you suggest it and then drag her off. That is the only thing that makes sense without a really great excuse, like maybe a professor stepping in and saying how important it is for greater houses heads to do this so vessel 's hands are tied to keep Cly from losing face.
Dates still goes down as written. Betrayal. Add a few more days of return to confinement like maybe a week. It has to be long enough for her to lose hope. Have Cly still be pissed that things don't smooth over. Have the A bros stop by the room unannounced, Cly shows a spell over her, Cass is on the edge of her seat hoping the guys see her and have seen through Cly, the guys leave, Cass looses all hope. Enter wrath, the plan, etc, etc.
Another point of contention with the story are written at this point in the actual book, Cass gets together with the guys and is immediately willing to give up all power to Older A. This is out of character and incredibly stupid. She would know this would offer her mom no protection and put her in a position where she would have no power to save herself or her mom. Also as the story is written there is no reason for the younger A to make the commitment he does or the older a to aqueous to his brother's scheme. We need that more richly developed relationship between Cass and the A's for that part of the story to work.
Anyways, the guys accept, D says he may be a nobody but he is in, a plan is put in place vessel A and Cly are taken down. Yay, but now comes the battle, the real battle. The stuff on the plane can still happen as written, but we need a little more than a broken clock. Where is that betrayal? Where is the burning the bridge at both ends? Honestly I expected the vassel to toss Cass's mom over the edge and run with the other half of Cly, Cass would then of course jump over the edge without thinking. It would loom like.she wss going to be able to save herself and her mom when her magic would faulter because she is weak as all after being held captive and drained again and then, as she blocked out, the last of her magic draining from her body, she would hit something warm and hard, a demon? Nope just older A who lept to her rescue. We don't find that out until the opening of book 2 where she is on the plane waking up next to her mom, she is slower to wake.up because she extended so much magic. The guys over hear her talking with her mom about plans on how they can stay in a shelter until they can find some work and her mom will find a way for Cass to get the college experience she never had. The guys are all um aren't you coming back to school. Cass is like hello? Did you forget I'm a halfblood with no money to my name. Cly alright about one thing, I can never been at wrathwood. Older A is like um no, if it is going to piss off the Reds you're going to be at wrathwood. We might have a thing against halfbloods but you are super powerful, look at what you were able to do with you powers being drained. I'm acting head of the most powerful noe that Cly doesn't have your power to rely on I say you are in, but only to stick it to Cly and the Reds.
Then we get to see D and Younger A start to develop their relationship with Cass as more than friends (honestly I though D was gay from the way he was written, so.he os going to need to be reworked to not be the gay bestfriend) and we are going to need some acknowledgedment that they are bucking all sorts of rules being tight with a halfblood and not having an arranged monogamous relationship like their society expects (as was spelled out in the book). I don't know what happens to them beyond that in my breakdown of how I would rework this be a stronger book because I haven't read book 2, but I'm sure it would be a great story, and I would happily rebuy the books if they were reworked like.I suggest because these are good characters with and interesting concept it just needs more meat.
Also, drop all the eww mom I can't believe you are seeing a boy who likes me and he really cares for you thing it was almost as bad and awkwardly written and forced as the dance.
The climax is kind of a non climax. There is no big battle or seemingly insurmountable odds. It's kind of just a business deal. The relationship aspect comes out pf left field leaving you with whiplash.
Spoilers from here on out
For the reader's benefit don't give three of the four guys in the books names that start with A. I was constantly trying to remember which guy the author was talking about, and I've already forgotten all of their names five minutes after finishing the book.
I think this would have done better for the series being broken down into two books. Have more character and relationship development going on in book 1. Have Cass getting clashes with the A brothers, Cly being a lazy self entitled b, vassel A touching more on their past bond, tormented by the current state of thing, yet continuously making the wrong choices. Have Cass slowly building a bond with D through their project, earning his trust so that when she ends up at the party and cornered into a dual his joining her makes sense. The dual should be the climax to the first book. She is going go battle it out against insurmountable odds, her sister cackling in the background, her power not fully restored, her mom's life brought further into the balance, i.e. you should probably win of you want your mom to have two arms at the end of the day. Book 1 should end with Cass stumbling away from the victory and passing out.
Book 2 should pick up right after. They are struggling to get through midterms. The A bros are not happy, but younger A seems like his heart isn't into being a jerk. They end up having to share a study space and are not happy about it. They raise hell, but aren't able to get separate study spaces because the amended request would have to be made by their parents, and only their parents no matter their level of incapacity or b-iness, and Cass obviously can get permission because Cly thinks it is hilarious, the guys we don't know why permission is withheld. It should probably be revealed later that wrath somehow meddled and resulted in the shared room, because of course he would. In these forced study sessions walls slowly begin falling, we get to reads days of flirting and ever increasing niceties, like a begrudgingly compliment as Cass and D work on a circle for their project and the A bros reluctantly admit that they were impressed buy her circles trick and ask her to explain. At first she won't share because duh, they are her enemy, but eventually she starts amusing herself by sticking some.sort of stickers on them via magic (like weird little kid stickers) to see how many she can get stuck on the A bros without them noticing. They eventually do, she explains stickers, younger A has all bust dropped the hostility now and she is crushing on him even more. Older A is still a cold jerk. Younger A discovers post notes pranks and covers the whole study room in them. Laughs are had by Cass and Younger A, the date is arranged.
Speaking of that date, just chapters before we had been told Cass would never be allowed into the human world because of the risk (I'm not clear what that risk would be. Mages don't fear humans. They have her mom. It doesn't sound like you can disappear from a mage so...what risk?) We need to be given a really good reason why vessel A lets Cass as Cly go out into the human world on this date, and building a relationship isn't enough. Vessel A should have at least said no it's too dangerous or no Red whatever would lower themselves to dining amount humans how dare you suggest it and then drag her off. That is the only thing that makes sense without a really great excuse, like maybe a professor stepping in and saying how important it is for greater houses heads to do this so vessel 's hands are tied to keep Cly from losing face.
Dates still goes down as written. Betrayal. Add a few more days of return to confinement like maybe a week. It has to be long enough for her to lose hope. Have Cly still be pissed that things don't smooth over. Have the A bros stop by the room unannounced, Cly shows a spell over her, Cass is on the edge of her seat hoping the guys see her and have seen through Cly, the guys leave, Cass looses all hope. Enter wrath, the plan, etc, etc.
Another point of contention with the story are written at this point in the actual book, Cass gets together with the guys and is immediately willing to give up all power to Older A. This is out of character and incredibly stupid. She would know this would offer her mom no protection and put her in a position where she would have no power to save herself or her mom. Also as the story is written there is no reason for the younger A to make the commitment he does or the older a to aqueous to his brother's scheme. We need that more richly developed relationship between Cass and the A's for that part of the story to work.
Anyways, the guys accept, D says he may be a nobody but he is in, a plan is put in place vessel A and Cly are taken down. Yay, but now comes the battle, the real battle. The stuff on the plane can still happen as written, but we need a little more than a broken clock. Where is that betrayal? Where is the burning the bridge at both ends? Honestly I expected the vassel to toss Cass's mom over the edge and run with the other half of Cly, Cass would then of course jump over the edge without thinking. It would loom like.she wss going to be able to save herself and her mom when her magic would faulter because she is weak as all after being held captive and drained again and then, as she blocked out, the last of her magic draining from her body, she would hit something warm and hard, a demon? Nope just older A who lept to her rescue. We don't find that out until the opening of book 2 where she is on the plane waking up next to her mom, she is slower to wake.up because she extended so much magic. The guys over hear her talking with her mom about plans on how they can stay in a shelter until they can find some work and her mom will find a way for Cass to get the college experience she never had. The guys are all um aren't you coming back to school. Cass is like hello? Did you forget I'm a halfblood with no money to my name. Cly alright about one thing, I can never been at wrathwood. Older A is like um no, if it is going to piss off the Reds you're going to be at wrathwood. We might have a thing against halfbloods but you are super powerful, look at what you were able to do with you powers being drained. I'm acting head of the most powerful noe that Cly doesn't have your power to rely on I say you are in, but only to stick it to Cly and the Reds.
Then we get to see D and Younger A start to develop their relationship with Cass as more than friends (honestly I though D was gay from the way he was written, so.he os going to need to be reworked to not be the gay bestfriend) and we are going to need some acknowledgedment that they are bucking all sorts of rules being tight with a halfblood and not having an arranged monogamous relationship like their society expects (as was spelled out in the book). I don't know what happens to them beyond that in my breakdown of how I would rework this be a stronger book because I haven't read book 2, but I'm sure it would be a great story, and I would happily rebuy the books if they were reworked like.I suggest because these are good characters with and interesting concept it just needs more meat.
Also, drop all the eww mom I can't believe you are seeing a boy who likes me and he really cares for you thing it was almost as bad and awkwardly written and forced as the dance.
March 30, 2020
2.5 stars!
September 16, 2019
Quick Info
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Cassandra Turner
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What happens?
Clys Redbriar is the student going to Wraithwood academy. She is too weak to look after herself so she brings the hostage half sister who has more power than her. She gets Cassandra to go in her place to school and take classes.
Final thoughts
At the end of the day this is a YA attempt at a reverse harem and while it doesn't fall completely on its face it isn't exactly what I was hoping it to be.
Cass is a strong character she seems to be a good magic user and you see talent rather than told talent which is a plus if you're like me and sick of weak main characters in YA genre. However, the only 'reverse harem' thing that happens is she kisses two boys at the end of the book like last past end. Its not completely clear, I mean it could have been her kissing one boy again the dialogue isn't crystal but I think its meant to be her kissing another one.
I wanted to see more of the school and more magic learning, she just seems to know what she is doing but also thirsts for knowledge too?
I may read the next book I've not fully decided.
Would I read again?: Maybe
Would I read this author again?: Maybe
Standalone/Cliffhanger?: Standalone
Part of a Series?: Yes
----------------------------------
Meeting the Characters
Cassandra Turner
----------------------------------
What happens?
Clys Redbriar is the student going to Wraithwood academy. She is too weak to look after herself so she brings the hostage half sister who has more power than her. She gets Cassandra to go in her place to school and take classes.
Final thoughts
At the end of the day this is a YA attempt at a reverse harem and while it doesn't fall completely on its face it isn't exactly what I was hoping it to be.
Cass is a strong character she seems to be a good magic user and you see talent rather than told talent which is a plus if you're like me and sick of weak main characters in YA genre. However, the only 'reverse harem' thing that happens is she kisses two boys at the end of the book like last past end. Its not completely clear, I mean it could have been her kissing one boy again the dialogue isn't crystal but I think its meant to be her kissing another one.
I wanted to see more of the school and more magic learning, she just seems to know what she is doing but also thirsts for knowledge too?
I may read the next book I've not fully decided.
Would I read again?: Maybe
Would I read this author again?: Maybe
July 28, 2019
I'm not who you think I am.
My enemies aren't who you think they are.
Welcome to Wraithwood Academy.
My father is dead. And my mother's enemies smell opportunity. To save us both, I’ll have to navigate the troubled waters of Wraithwood Academy, seeking allies and outsmarting enemies among the heirs to the country's most powerful mage families.
The vicious, gorgeous Nightfeld brothers think they know me. Cly Redbriar, the weak daughter of a powerful father. A spoiled, scared little girl hiding behind her bodyguard. Nothing but a new plaything for the kings of Wraithwood.
They know nothing.
Because I’ve been forced to live a twisted lie.
See, I’m not really Cly Redbriar…
This is a really great read and start to new series.
Fabulous world buiilding in this.
Great characters that I want to read more about.
Really liked the story and plot line.
I can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My enemies aren't who you think they are.
Welcome to Wraithwood Academy.
My father is dead. And my mother's enemies smell opportunity. To save us both, I’ll have to navigate the troubled waters of Wraithwood Academy, seeking allies and outsmarting enemies among the heirs to the country's most powerful mage families.
The vicious, gorgeous Nightfeld brothers think they know me. Cly Redbriar, the weak daughter of a powerful father. A spoiled, scared little girl hiding behind her bodyguard. Nothing but a new plaything for the kings of Wraithwood.
They know nothing.
Because I’ve been forced to live a twisted lie.
See, I’m not really Cly Redbriar…
This is a really great read and start to new series.
Fabulous world buiilding in this.
Great characters that I want to read more about.
Really liked the story and plot line.
I can't wait to read more of these.
Recommend reading.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 3, 2019
The Shadow Student by Teresa Hann is the first book in the Wraithwood Academy series. This compelling book begins as Clytemnestra (Cly )Redbriar arrives at the mage school Wraithwood Academy with her bodyguard Aegis and prisoner half sister Cassandra Turner. Cly immediately gets into trouble while attempting to bully another student and gets bullied and embarrassed in return by another set of students Acubens and Arcturas Nightfeld. Thus begins this amazingly complex and enthralling tale where the oppressed become free and sometimes people really get what they deserve. This is an amazing book that anyone who enjoys a great fantasy or paranormal read will love. I definitely think this is the perfect addition to any readers bookshelf. The Shadow Student is a compelling tale of magic and consequences.
July 28, 2019
fast paced story about freedom and sacrifice
There are a lot of academy books on the market right now, but this one is a bit unique and I enjoyed it. Cassandra is put in an impossible situation and she does well. She is willing to make the hard choices when necessary.
I would’ve liked a little more interactions between characters and a few more pages. Love the fact that this story actually has an ending and no cliffhangers.
Spoilers: Can Cly and Aegis be that naive that they think Cassandra wouldn’t try anything to escape. These two are not family not friends but are simply evil. To redeem these two would take a lot.
Anyways looking forward to next book
There are a lot of academy books on the market right now, but this one is a bit unique and I enjoyed it. Cassandra is put in an impossible situation and she does well. She is willing to make the hard choices when necessary.
I would’ve liked a little more interactions between characters and a few more pages. Love the fact that this story actually has an ending and no cliffhangers.
Spoilers: Can Cly and Aegis be that naive that they think Cassandra wouldn’t try anything to escape. These two are not family not friends but are simply evil. To redeem these two would take a lot.
Anyways looking forward to next book
July 29, 2019
An heir with no magic and an illegitimate daughter with outstanding powers at her fingertips. A rivalry between 2 great mage houses and a mother-daughter caught up in the middle of it all.
What happens when all of these meet together is a big bang of magic, mayhem and allies. This book goes beyond just the plot of the story, there are questions that pertain to every society.
This is a great series starter and one I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What happens when all of these meet together is a big bang of magic, mayhem and allies. This book goes beyond just the plot of the story, there are questions that pertain to every society.
This is a great series starter and one I thoroughly enjoyed reading. I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2019
A world of magic
Solid 5 star rating.
The author created a storyline surrounding a school but filled with magic, budding romance, friendship and family.
You feel for Cass with how her life turned out. For Cly, I think she got off easy. I would have done more damage to her.
The author did an amazing job of character building for Cass and the boys, their interactions and emotions.
Arc and Wraith were interesting characters that I'm excited to read more about in future installations.
Solid 5 star rating.
The author created a storyline surrounding a school but filled with magic, budding romance, friendship and family.
You feel for Cass with how her life turned out. For Cly, I think she got off easy. I would have done more damage to her.
The author did an amazing job of character building for Cass and the boys, their interactions and emotions.
Arc and Wraith were interesting characters that I'm excited to read more about in future installations.
January 7, 2025
i love RH books and i never read RH bully romanes and if this one had Rh bully romance in the title i would have lost an opportunity to read a great book.i feel like i've been drinking weak watered-down coffee for the last month (at least) and sadenly i found strong good coffee.i havent drunk strong good coffee for a good while now.i dont know what it is excactly that makes this RH book a good one and not the one i was reading yesterday but as soon as the next one in the series gets out i'm buying it.
August 1, 2019
Time to learn about consequences.
Oh, I loved this book! Our FMC’s scheming, the different personalities and motivations of the men, the actual fact that they went to classes often and we learned about magic together, the happily for now ending....yup. All good. And two boy kisses! No smut, but certainly affection that I’m really all fuzzy about getting to see grow. There’s just enough sweetness to round out the rough.
Oh, I loved this book! Our FMC’s scheming, the different personalities and motivations of the men, the actual fact that they went to classes often and we learned about magic together, the happily for now ending....yup. All good. And two boy kisses! No smut, but certainly affection that I’m really all fuzzy about getting to see grow. There’s just enough sweetness to round out the rough.
August 21, 2019
Two faced
Magic, hot boys, and a school to become a badass mage? Too bad it was all a lie for Cassandra. Forced to use illusions to make herself look like her evil half sister, she has to put in hard work or risk her mother’s life.
I loved how calculating Cassandra was to trick Cly into letting her take her place. The author had plenty of twists in her tale and left me wanting more.
Magic, hot boys, and a school to become a badass mage? Too bad it was all a lie for Cassandra. Forced to use illusions to make herself look like her evil half sister, she has to put in hard work or risk her mother’s life.
I loved how calculating Cassandra was to trick Cly into letting her take her place. The author had plenty of twists in her tale and left me wanting more.
August 22, 2019
Unique Story Line!
This story is a breath of fresh air compared to most. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. I’m so sad about Aegis, because he is one of my favs. I hope he can be redeemed. And the main character wasn’t dumb at all! She was smart and badass when she needed to be, and cunning other times. I’m super looking forward to reading the next book!! I can’t wait!
This story is a breath of fresh air compared to most. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. I’m so sad about Aegis, because he is one of my favs. I hope he can be redeemed. And the main character wasn’t dumb at all! She was smart and badass when she needed to be, and cunning other times. I’m super looking forward to reading the next book!! I can’t wait!
September 8, 2019
This one isn't that good. I rate 2 stars, I finished it but will likely not read any sequel.
Its another take on the academy fantasy, house vs house. The setup is basic.
The heroine is an all powerful mage who has knowledge of spells but is controlled by her family. She goes to school disguised as her half sister who is royal but has little magic.
She has the power to duel and defeat some of the mightiest mages at the academy but cannot break free herself...
Its another take on the academy fantasy, house vs house. The setup is basic.
The heroine is an all powerful mage who has knowledge of spells but is controlled by her family. She goes to school disguised as her half sister who is royal but has little magic.
She has the power to duel and defeat some of the mightiest mages at the academy but cannot break free herself...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 21, 2019
The Shadow Student was not what I was expecting. It starts off really different, and then there are a lot of twists to it. I enjoyed the main heroine, and although I felt there wasn't really any connection between her and the hero or heroes, things turned out interesting in the end.
Overall, I liked it, but it wasn't my favorite.
Overall, I liked it, but it wasn't my favorite.
September 23, 2019
Fantastic slow burn with amazing narrative structure
This book has one of the best cold opens I've ever read, and the author doesn't stop there. The pacing and world building had me sprinting to the end just to find out what would happen next. The way Cass and her friends lives intertwine are so thoughtful and compelling.
This book has one of the best cold opens I've ever read, and the author doesn't stop there. The pacing and world building had me sprinting to the end just to find out what would happen next. The way Cass and her friends lives intertwine are so thoughtful and compelling.
July 31, 2019
This was an okay read for me. Sadly I never really connected with any of the characters. I did feel bad because all she wanted was to save her mother. Which is really the only reason I kept reading. I needed to find out if in the end she got her mother back.
July 26, 2019
A fast read. I liked the Wraith bit, nothing else felt super new.
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