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Night Shade Academy #1
Night Shade Academy
I thought I had it all: twin sister, cute boyfriend, and magic beyond my years. Night Shade Academy should’ve been easy for me, but nothing could prepare me for the moment when I’m kicked out of my birthright House and placed with the evil witches known as the Darks—despite being born a Light.
Now, I’m stuck with a bunch of evil witches who compete in this crazy tradition where they pit the first years against each other, fighting for their place in the hierarchy at the Academy. The only rule, try not to die.
Oh, and did I mention it’s not just witches we have to contend with? There’s also Vampires and Lycans, as well.
Thanks to the help of a gorgeous Dark that I find myself a little too attracted to, I’m able to keep my ass-whoopings to a minimum, until someone pushes me too far, and I find out exactly why my magic affinity is Dark.
Now, I’m stuck with a bunch of evil witches who compete in this crazy tradition where they pit the first years against each other, fighting for their place in the hierarchy at the Academy. The only rule, try not to die.
Oh, and did I mention it’s not just witches we have to contend with? There’s also Vampires and Lycans, as well.
Thanks to the help of a gorgeous Dark that I find myself a little too attracted to, I’m able to keep my ass-whoopings to a minimum, until someone pushes me too far, and I find out exactly why my magic affinity is Dark.
Unknown Binding
Published August 14, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Want to read
July 5, 2021yes, i have a thing for academy tropes, geez
Read
December 1, 2022DNF at 67%
February 26, 2020
I give this book a 4.5 ⭐️ score
I very much enjoyed reading this book! The story development was perfectly set up and the growth of the story and characters really caught me and brought me into it...making the story come alive.
The story for me personally did take a little bit of time for me to fall into the world and truly grab me but once I was in, I was in.
I enjoyed the characters within this story and the personalities that shown through. I instantly loved her twin Kayla and was totally into Hunter from the get go...I also loved when Zalia stepped out of her prejudice thinking and began making friends outside of the “expected” and “normal” way in this current world. The friendships made were very special and it was awesome watching them become closer. Showing friends don’t just have to be within a particular species (in this instance) or culture etc. I just loved how they all really popped out at me even the ones that were being snobby. But please can I just say thank goodness she told Brody what for...he was a jerk. Hunter much better choice hehe 😉
Okay a little about the story....
So the world we are brought into is based at a Paranormal School called Night Shade Academy and there are magical beings like Light Witches, Dark Witches, Vampires and Werewolves and at a certain age it’s mandatory that they go to this school before they are allowed to live among humans.
The story surrounds this girl, Zalia, that goes to the school with her twin sister Kayla, thinking she’s a light witch but alas when she goes to enter the room to her section it rejects her, not allowing her to enter. Shes taken away by the heads of the school and they make her try to enter the Dark Witches door instead...and to her horror it accepts her right away. Which means poor Zalia is not a Light Witch at all. To Zalia this is the worst possible thing to happen as all the Para groups have prejudices against each other and being thrown in with the Dark Witches is like entering a den of well crazy witches that hate you. She’s rejected immediately by the Light Witches who are very stuck in their ways and think themselves above all others.
This changes everything and now Zalia has to find her way through the school learning the history etc of the Dark Witches...but what she learns through her classes and new friend Nova ,her roomie,that everything isn’t as it seems...and now she's having to rethink everything she was taught as a child.
But among learning all this new knowledge during one of her “gym” classes she finds that underneath her surface she has more power then any of them could imagine. She is a rarity known as a Shadow Walker. Once her power awakened she struggles to contain it and this is where our sexy Hunter comes in to save the day lol. He’s assigned her Mentor so to speak to help her try and control this raging fire inside her.
But... I’m gonna stop there coz I don’t wanna spoil anything and if I keep talking I totally will.
This chick is sooo right lol sorry lol.
All I’m going to say is that I loved the intensity towards the end and the massive build up as everything with this book was wrapped up...I’m just sayin I was a wee bit worried what was gonna happen to her friends.... But Let me just say Zalia totally kicked some demon butt! (With the help of her sister of course - didn’t want to get turned into a toad for not including her in that statement haha 😂).
I’m very intrigued to see where book 2 will lead and I can’t wait to see more of these awesome characters!!
Thanks so much Kelly for the opportunity/honour of reading this ARC.
Happy Reading My Nerdy Friends 🤓
I very much enjoyed reading this book! The story development was perfectly set up and the growth of the story and characters really caught me and brought me into it...making the story come alive.
The story for me personally did take a little bit of time for me to fall into the world and truly grab me but once I was in, I was in.
I enjoyed the characters within this story and the personalities that shown through. I instantly loved her twin Kayla and was totally into Hunter from the get go...I also loved when Zalia stepped out of her prejudice thinking and began making friends outside of the “expected” and “normal” way in this current world. The friendships made were very special and it was awesome watching them become closer. Showing friends don’t just have to be within a particular species (in this instance) or culture etc. I just loved how they all really popped out at me even the ones that were being snobby. But please can I just say thank goodness she told Brody what for...he was a jerk. Hunter much better choice hehe 😉
Okay a little about the story....
So the world we are brought into is based at a Paranormal School called Night Shade Academy and there are magical beings like Light Witches, Dark Witches, Vampires and Werewolves and at a certain age it’s mandatory that they go to this school before they are allowed to live among humans.
The story surrounds this girl, Zalia, that goes to the school with her twin sister Kayla, thinking she’s a light witch but alas when she goes to enter the room to her section it rejects her, not allowing her to enter. Shes taken away by the heads of the school and they make her try to enter the Dark Witches door instead...and to her horror it accepts her right away. Which means poor Zalia is not a Light Witch at all. To Zalia this is the worst possible thing to happen as all the Para groups have prejudices against each other and being thrown in with the Dark Witches is like entering a den of well crazy witches that hate you. She’s rejected immediately by the Light Witches who are very stuck in their ways and think themselves above all others.
This changes everything and now Zalia has to find her way through the school learning the history etc of the Dark Witches...but what she learns through her classes and new friend Nova ,her roomie,that everything isn’t as it seems...and now she's having to rethink everything she was taught as a child.
But among learning all this new knowledge during one of her “gym” classes she finds that underneath her surface she has more power then any of them could imagine. She is a rarity known as a Shadow Walker. Once her power awakened she struggles to contain it and this is where our sexy Hunter comes in to save the day lol. He’s assigned her Mentor so to speak to help her try and control this raging fire inside her.
But... I’m gonna stop there coz I don’t wanna spoil anything and if I keep talking I totally will.
This chick is sooo right lol sorry lol.
All I’m going to say is that I loved the intensity towards the end and the massive build up as everything with this book was wrapped up...I’m just sayin I was a wee bit worried what was gonna happen to her friends.... But Let me just say Zalia totally kicked some demon butt! (With the help of her sister of course - didn’t want to get turned into a toad for not including her in that statement haha 😂).
I’m very intrigued to see where book 2 will lead and I can’t wait to see more of these awesome characters!!
Thanks so much Kelly for the opportunity/honour of reading this ARC.
Happy Reading My Nerdy Friends 🤓
April 3, 2020
I knew I wanted to read Night Shade Academy right from the moment I first spotted the cover. It looks fun, sounded interesting and I am just a tiny bit obsessed with the magical academy genre of books at the moment. There was no warming period where I had to get use to the world or characters- nope, I was instantly into the story and the world, watching all the shenanigans that Zalia inadvertently gets herself up to. This was fun, fast paced and quirky, all things I really enjoy in a read. There was mystery,magic, school drama, friendship/camaraderie and romance in a nice little package.
I think my favorite part of the book was the relationship dynamics between Zalia and her people. In a dangerous, shifty place, she collects people in the most interesting and loyal of ways. We have the twin sister, which really could have been a sad story, was instead the best or supportive and exciting of relationships. And then there is dreamy Hunter, who has Zalia's back before she even knows she needs someone to have her back. There are other random friends that she collects and I love that there is no petty issues, jealousy, love triangles or anything else drama related- instead they all gang up to fight evil the best they can and I love it.
The ending had lots of questions unanswered (what is up with Karma for one!!) that I would love to find out more about, as well as some holes in the world building I was confused about that I hope get resolved (or at least addressed) in the next book to come. Which, in case you were wondering, I am so here for!
I think my favorite part of the book was the relationship dynamics between Zalia and her people. In a dangerous, shifty place, she collects people in the most interesting and loyal of ways. We have the twin sister, which really could have been a sad story, was instead the best or supportive and exciting of relationships. And then there is dreamy Hunter, who has Zalia's back before she even knows she needs someone to have her back. There are other random friends that she collects and I love that there is no petty issues, jealousy, love triangles or anything else drama related- instead they all gang up to fight evil the best they can and I love it.
The ending had lots of questions unanswered (what is up with Karma for one!!) that I would love to find out more about, as well as some holes in the world building I was confused about that I hope get resolved (or at least addressed) in the next book to come. Which, in case you were wondering, I am so here for!
August 14, 2019
Fantastic! I loved it! I really enjoyed the characters and loved how fast paced, unpredictable and fun this story was. The concept was original and exciting!
April 6, 2020
This book was really hard for me to get into. I couldn’t finish it. I may try to read it again at a later date.
May 13, 2020
The is an excellent paranormal academy book with some interesting magical twists on the genre.
August 19, 2019
Heading to her first year at the Academy with her twin and her boyfriend at her side, confident about her magic abilities, Zalia thought she had it all. But when she went to walk through the door to her house everything changed. Raised to believe she was a White witch, it turns out she is a Dark witch. The witches she was taught were evil. Now living with the Darks, Zalia has to fight. She must compete in the house fights for hierarchy with the Darks and then vampires and lycan. Far behind the other Darks, Zalia is given a trainer to help her survive. A beautiful Dark witch, Hunter that she feels an instant attraction to. Then when pushed too far, the truth comes out. Zalia is much more than a regular dark witch and now if Hunter can't help her learn control, everyone is in danger. Even that might not be enough. Just her existence may put everyone she cares about in danger.
I loved Zalia and Kayla. Their twin connection was a constant amusement. They compliment each other perfectly in every way. I am a huge fan of academy books and this one is no exception. This genre just gives the author so much to work with. A great cast of student characters, a mystery, and the main character in a personal crisis, plus all those teenage hormones mean relationships. Zalia had so much thrown at her; her Dark magic status, learning everything she had been taught was a lie, losing her boyfriend, being separated from her twin in the white/dark houses, discovering her truth and that she could be a threat to the world, falling for a guy, losing everyone, trying to save everyone. You get the picture. It would have been overwhelming for most but she had Kayla, Hunter, her intelligence, and her inner goodness to see her through, plus a little Karma. Fast-paced, action-packed. This story wrapped up at the end with no major cliffhanger but definitely set up for book two. I look forward to more Zalia and Kayla, Hunter, Nova, Laila, and Thomas and to confirming my thoughts about that second tattoo.
I loved Zalia and Kayla. Their twin connection was a constant amusement. They compliment each other perfectly in every way. I am a huge fan of academy books and this one is no exception. This genre just gives the author so much to work with. A great cast of student characters, a mystery, and the main character in a personal crisis, plus all those teenage hormones mean relationships. Zalia had so much thrown at her; her Dark magic status, learning everything she had been taught was a lie, losing her boyfriend, being separated from her twin in the white/dark houses, discovering her truth and that she could be a threat to the world, falling for a guy, losing everyone, trying to save everyone. You get the picture. It would have been overwhelming for most but she had Kayla, Hunter, her intelligence, and her inner goodness to see her through, plus a little Karma. Fast-paced, action-packed. This story wrapped up at the end with no major cliffhanger but definitely set up for book two. I look forward to more Zalia and Kayla, Hunter, Nova, Laila, and Thomas and to confirming my thoughts about that second tattoo.
September 2, 2019
Really, really good
This is an academy book about friends, monsters, enemies, secrets and magic. It flows really well and pulls you easily in. Looking forward to book two.
This is an academy book about friends, monsters, enemies, secrets and magic. It flows really well and pulls you easily in. Looking forward to book two.
March 8, 2020
If it was possible this book would get more than 10 ⭐️
The book is about a girl named Rozalia but goes by Zalia who’s a Light Witch. Her sister and she are attending a Night Shade Academy with 3 other factions: Dark Witches, Vampires and Werewolves (basically). The only problem here? No faction likes the other one! Like a BIF FAT NO! So what could go wrong, right?
The most interesting thing about this book was unpredictability? Like I kind of knew what could/would happen, but only a half of the time was I right. I really liked that, because the more YA books I read, the easier it is for me to predict as what will happen. However this book had me on a tip of my toes from the ¼ of it!
I would lie if I said I didn’t like the characters the most! I really have to say that Kelly did an amazing job with creating their personalities. As you’ll read this book you will come across about 3-5 characters you’ll either love or adore, not counting the main Zalia! For me I honestly loved Kayla (Zalia’s twin sister), Hunter and Nova the most.
Something about the characters:
Rozalia aka Zalia is nice, caring, hotheaded, would fight for what she believes is right, loves to read
Kayla is acting all tough but wouldn’t even miss a class, loving, cares much
Hunter is new, barely known, protective, supporting
Nova is also new, she speaks what is on her mind no matter if a good or a bad thing, she is pretty straightforward
Overall this book was amazing, kept me up all night (literally) which happens every so often. Also this book is written in first person, if anyone wants to know. That makes it easy to feel like if you are the main character, which I love. The chemistry it this book is sometimes (a little times) cringey, but worth it. The style of writing is great! Would definitely recommend this book even to someone who doesn’t speak English fluently or has it ask their main language.
Kelly Carreras has stolen my heart, my thoughts, my sleep away from me once again! I was a lucky one to get this as an ARC along with the second book, which I can’t wait to read. Also if you haven’t read the Shadow Realms by her, you definitely should! I bet my ass Kelly is going to be one of those authors that I will just pick the book and read it without know the blurb.
A BONUS REVIEW ON MY TUMBLR ❤️
The book is about a girl named Rozalia but goes by Zalia who’s a Light Witch. Her sister and she are attending a Night Shade Academy with 3 other factions: Dark Witches, Vampires and Werewolves (basically). The only problem here? No faction likes the other one! Like a BIF FAT NO! So what could go wrong, right?
The most interesting thing about this book was unpredictability? Like I kind of knew what could/would happen, but only a half of the time was I right. I really liked that, because the more YA books I read, the easier it is for me to predict as what will happen. However this book had me on a tip of my toes from the ¼ of it!
I would lie if I said I didn’t like the characters the most! I really have to say that Kelly did an amazing job with creating their personalities. As you’ll read this book you will come across about 3-5 characters you’ll either love or adore, not counting the main Zalia! For me I honestly loved Kayla (Zalia’s twin sister), Hunter and Nova the most.
Something about the characters:
Rozalia aka Zalia is nice, caring, hotheaded, would fight for what she believes is right, loves to read
Kayla is acting all tough but wouldn’t even miss a class, loving, cares much
Hunter is new, barely known, protective, supporting
Nova is also new, she speaks what is on her mind no matter if a good or a bad thing, she is pretty straightforward
Overall this book was amazing, kept me up all night (literally) which happens every so often. Also this book is written in first person, if anyone wants to know. That makes it easy to feel like if you are the main character, which I love. The chemistry it this book is sometimes (a little times) cringey, but worth it. The style of writing is great! Would definitely recommend this book even to someone who doesn’t speak English fluently or has it ask their main language.
Kelly Carreras has stolen my heart, my thoughts, my sleep away from me once again! I was a lucky one to get this as an ARC along with the second book, which I can’t wait to read. Also if you haven’t read the Shadow Realms by her, you definitely should! I bet my ass Kelly is going to be one of those authors that I will just pick the book and read it without know the blurb.
A BONUS REVIEW ON MY TUMBLR ❤️
May 29, 2020
This is a little better than the other magic academy book that I read. The viewpoint character, Zalia, and her troublemaking twin sister had been preparing to go to magic school together for years. But when they get there, Zalia is unable to pass into the House of Light even though her twin and her boyfriend have no trouble. She winds up in the House of Dark where she learns that much of what she had been taught about the Light and Dark was wrong, or at least one-sided. And then she learns that she's not an ordinary Dark Witch but a special Shadow Walker.
The idea that the light is not all good and the dark all bad elevates this book a bit above other similar volumes (although making the heroine a super-special super-witch knocks it down a bit in my view.
The idea that the light is not all good and the dark all bad elevates this book a bit above other similar volumes (although making the heroine a super-special super-witch knocks it down a bit in my view.
February 25, 2020
Kelly Carrero is a new author to me, but the blurb was intriguing enough to draw my interest. I don't regret picking up this book. The storyline is quite unique and original in comparison to other books of the genre, and hooked my interest from start to finish. There are twists, there are turns, there's magic (of course), suspense, drama, romance. I can't wait to see what comes next!
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.
July 9, 2021
This book is pure dynamite! Whatever you think you know about paranormals and white/light and dark magic, prepare to get your mind utterly blown!
This book is one surprise after the other and the shocks come just as fast! I was rooting hard for our protagonist from the jump, no matter what was thrown her way and read book one straight through. I'm moving on to book two immediately! Tremendously entertaining and totally captivating!
This book is one surprise after the other and the shocks come just as fast! I was rooting hard for our protagonist from the jump, no matter what was thrown her way and read book one straight through. I'm moving on to book two immediately! Tremendously entertaining and totally captivating!
August 19, 2020
Rozalia is more shocked when the wards in the Lights dormitory rejects her then is shocked further when she is taken to the Dark dormitory and the wards let her pass. Rozalia is a great character i cant wait to read more about why she was chosen for the dark when she comes from a light family
January 26, 2021
DNF.
I made it as far as chapter thirteen, but it was kinda meh...
There were lots of grammatical errors which were annoying. The dialogue a bit dull. The concept was cool and I could probably power through and finish it, but there's so many other books out there I'd rather sample.
I made it as far as chapter thirteen, but it was kinda meh...
There were lots of grammatical errors which were annoying. The dialogue a bit dull. The concept was cool and I could probably power through and finish it, but there's so many other books out there I'd rather sample.
March 10, 2020
This is. Great first book! The world building and characters set the stage for what's sure to be a fantastic series!😍🥰
May 3, 2020
I loved it and thought it was a fun easy read.
August 9, 2021
I loved it! From Zalia's personality to her powers and the plot setting up, I loved it all. I'm anticipating something bigger in upcoming books!
March 6, 2022
1,5 rounded up.
Insta-love and one dimensional characters. The whole book felt rushed.
Insta-love and one dimensional characters. The whole book felt rushed.
April 22, 2025
Quick. Well written. An easy 1-evening read.
🪄 paranormal romance
🪄 paranormal academy
🪄 blurry lines between good/bad
🪄 witches (mostly), vampires, shapeshifters
🪄 Single POV
🪄 paranormal romance
🪄 paranormal academy
🪄 blurry lines between good/bad
🪄 witches (mostly), vampires, shapeshifters
🪄 Single POV
March 14, 2020
I loved this book!! It was well written and the story and characters are well developed. I live the twin sisters sassy, quirky personalities and watching the character dynamics grow and evolve. The story is action packed and full of twists and turns. It has suspense, intrigue, emotion, hot chemistry and a touch of romance. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!! I’d highly recommend this book!!
March 31, 2020
Imagine growing up thinking you knew who you were, only to be told everything you thought was wrong. Zalia thought she and her twin were both Light Witches, the good guys. But Night Shade Academy said otherwise. Now thrown into the Dark Witches side, Zalia has to cope with a lot of truths. None of the factions are what she thought, and she's struggling with her own inner demons. Along with the way she makes some unlikely friends, and her twin sister refuses to leave her side. Plus there's the hot guy, Hunter, who swears to help her. But who can she really trust.
There are a lot of great aspects to this story. I love the plot build and character development. It's very well written and easy to get lost in. I enjoyed the ending and how it leads to further future stories, without a cliffhanger that makes me scream. Ill be back for more of Zalia and the gang for sure.
There are a lot of great aspects to this story. I love the plot build and character development. It's very well written and easy to get lost in. I enjoyed the ending and how it leads to further future stories, without a cliffhanger that makes me scream. Ill be back for more of Zalia and the gang for sure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2020
Only recommended for teenage girls under 17. As I guy, who should have known better than
to start reading a book like this, it sucked. Underdeveloped unoriginal story and boring characters. If you have ever read a story about kids in magic school this one is about the worst of the lot. There are tons out there with better storytelling
to start reading a book like this, it sucked. Underdeveloped unoriginal story and boring characters. If you have ever read a story about kids in magic school this one is about the worst of the lot. There are tons out there with better storytelling
September 19, 2019
Also posted on my blog!
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed how the book immediately subverted my expectations. I was expecting the twins to go into their dorm and be all happy but BAM, subverted. It didn't deliver in my other expectations, though, which can be both good and bad. The vampires and werewolves weren't really utilized as different characters. I'd like to know how they live, what their powers are, and you get a tiny little bit of werewolf action, and that's it.
Love Story/Relationship
Uh...the obvious relationship isn't exactly something I can root for because of the young man's position. He is a teacher/tutor to her. The ick factor is here and I don't know why people like this, unless you are 15 and still fantasize about your teachers. It's the same problem that I had with The Queen's Rising.
Look, the love interest here isn't bad bad. He seems to have his head on his shoulders - unless you look at their first kiss. Yikes. But, no, wait, seriously, he doesn't pressure her. He has her best interest and well-being in mind. It's difficult. Buuutt....
Good Messages
At the core of this story is generational prejudice against other people. Being switched factions, Zalia is confronted with the reality that what she has taught previously by other Light Witches was...false. She has thought the others -- vampires and werewolves, plus Dark Witches -- were terrible, especially the Darks. Can you imagine how hard it would be to have the truth told to you, and in a room full of people, you're the only one who didn't know? Part of Zalia's task is to learn to get to know the others, and treat them like people...which was hard for her? Those bits were a little hard to read, but she gets over it. I still think she should have learned a little more but hopefully that happens in book 2.
Main Character
Oh, we're all shocked that ROZALIA is basically the chosen one?! Nooooo waaaaay!
Seriously though. You have two kids. One is Kayla, the other is ROZALIA. Not Rose, ZALIA.
Final Verdict
Overall, I loved this book. The twist at the end was great, and the red herring was fantastic. I hope to see more done with the vampires, werewolves, familiars, and the other elements that were introduced in this book. I still have some questions, so I'll just have to get my hands on the second book?
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed how the book immediately subverted my expectations. I was expecting the twins to go into their dorm and be all happy but BAM, subverted. It didn't deliver in my other expectations, though, which can be both good and bad. The vampires and werewolves weren't really utilized as different characters. I'd like to know how they live, what their powers are, and you get a tiny little bit of werewolf action, and that's it.
Love Story/Relationship
Uh...the obvious relationship isn't exactly something I can root for because of the young man's position. He is a teacher/tutor to her. The ick factor is here and I don't know why people like this, unless you are 15 and still fantasize about your teachers. It's the same problem that I had with The Queen's Rising.
Look, the love interest here isn't bad bad. He seems to have his head on his shoulders - unless you look at their first kiss. Yikes. But, no, wait, seriously, he doesn't pressure her. He has her best interest and well-being in mind. It's difficult. Buuutt....
Good Messages
At the core of this story is generational prejudice against other people. Being switched factions, Zalia is confronted with the reality that what she has taught previously by other Light Witches was...false. She has thought the others -- vampires and werewolves, plus Dark Witches -- were terrible, especially the Darks. Can you imagine how hard it would be to have the truth told to you, and in a room full of people, you're the only one who didn't know? Part of Zalia's task is to learn to get to know the others, and treat them like people...which was hard for her? Those bits were a little hard to read, but she gets over it. I still think she should have learned a little more but hopefully that happens in book 2.
Main Character
Oh, we're all shocked that ROZALIA is basically the chosen one?! Nooooo waaaaay!
Seriously though. You have two kids. One is Kayla, the other is ROZALIA. Not Rose, ZALIA.
Final Verdict
Overall, I loved this book. The twist at the end was great, and the red herring was fantastic. I hope to see more done with the vampires, werewolves, familiars, and the other elements that were introduced in this book. I still have some questions, so I'll just have to get my hands on the second book?
August 18, 2019
Exciting, Firey, Fab Characters & Storyline!!🔥👺🐺 4.5 Stars 🌟
Night Shade Academy #1
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Zalia & Kayla are twins starting their first day of the Night Shade Academy 🌙 🎓 Kayla is an outgoing rebel but has a heart of gold & Zalia is a complete nerd that excels in magic & spells, she's actually extremely strong for their age but is extremely kind hearted!👍💕 They're from a Light Witch family.
There are different factions - Light Witches, Vampires, Lycans & Dark Witches. The Lights are generally smug, think they're better than everyone else & definitely look down on the other factions -
The Dark are feared & despised by the light!!😳😔
Lycans are definitely viewed as much lesser & smelly dogs by them!😡
Vampires aren't viewed as quite as lowly by the light!😳
The twins aren't as racist as most, they won't be pushed around by them either though. The Elitist views they've been taught & brought up with all of their lives seeps in at times but not with the same vileness of most of their faction!!👍
On entry they have to pass through a warded door to their Faction House at the Academy, Kayla steps through with Zalia's boyfriend Brodie, but when she tries to enter it bars her way & alarms are set off!!😱 Its discovered she is some how a Dark Witch not Light!!😳😢 Zalia is now on inside looking out - she's one of the hated, feared & despised Dark but all the other factions still view her as a Light - she's in limbo & ripped away from her twin for the first time in her life!!😭
Zalia's learning curve in the history of the Dark is steap! It's also nothing like what they've been taught 😳 Unfortunately, knowing how superior the Lights view themselves she can't help thinking their version may be the truth!!🙈💔 Thank God she's got her twin & her boyfriend to lean on as she navigates the violence & Darkness within herself💥 - or has she??😳😕
There's so much more than this snippet to the storyline 😍 Lies, betrayals, friendships & terror all ensue plus more!!🌟 I can't wait for more to come. There are some wonderful characters I can't wait to get know more about. Plus her new familiar that isn't a poop after all!!😂😎😂 I definitely recommend this one, a higher quality Academy read🎓👔📚
Debbie, 1970, UK
Night Shade Academy #1
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. Zalia & Kayla are twins starting their first day of the Night Shade Academy 🌙 🎓 Kayla is an outgoing rebel but has a heart of gold & Zalia is a complete nerd that excels in magic & spells, she's actually extremely strong for their age but is extremely kind hearted!👍💕 They're from a Light Witch family.
There are different factions - Light Witches, Vampires, Lycans & Dark Witches. The Lights are generally smug, think they're better than everyone else & definitely look down on the other factions -
The Dark are feared & despised by the light!!😳😔
Lycans are definitely viewed as much lesser & smelly dogs by them!😡
Vampires aren't viewed as quite as lowly by the light!😳
The twins aren't as racist as most, they won't be pushed around by them either though. The Elitist views they've been taught & brought up with all of their lives seeps in at times but not with the same vileness of most of their faction!!👍
On entry they have to pass through a warded door to their Faction House at the Academy, Kayla steps through with Zalia's boyfriend Brodie, but when she tries to enter it bars her way & alarms are set off!!😱 Its discovered she is some how a Dark Witch not Light!!😳😢 Zalia is now on inside looking out - she's one of the hated, feared & despised Dark but all the other factions still view her as a Light - she's in limbo & ripped away from her twin for the first time in her life!!😭
Zalia's learning curve in the history of the Dark is steap! It's also nothing like what they've been taught 😳 Unfortunately, knowing how superior the Lights view themselves she can't help thinking their version may be the truth!!🙈💔 Thank God she's got her twin & her boyfriend to lean on as she navigates the violence & Darkness within herself💥 - or has she??😳😕
There's so much more than this snippet to the storyline 😍 Lies, betrayals, friendships & terror all ensue plus more!!🌟 I can't wait for more to come. There are some wonderful characters I can't wait to get know more about. Plus her new familiar that isn't a poop after all!!😂😎😂 I definitely recommend this one, a higher quality Academy read🎓👔📚
Debbie, 1970, UK
August 14, 2019
Rozalia & Kayla Moore; twin sisters and Light witches have been "accepted" into the Night Shade Academy. Uncertain of their welcome, no one is more shocked than Rozalia when the wards in the Lights dormitory rejects her and bars her passing inside. Rozalia is further shocked when she is taken to the Dark dormitory and the wards let her pass.
But that is only the beginning of Rozalia's humiliation and confusion. Beset on all sides by malicious actions and cutting words, Rozalia finally finds her twin sister in the cafeteria and runs to her for comfort; but her comfort is fleeting and dissapates like an early morning fog when Rozalia sees her boyfriend Brody, and he breaks it off with her.... Just because she's been identified as a Dark! Rozalia is becoming more and more confused, as the life she has known her entire life is slipping through her fingers as sands through the hourglass of Time...
"Tears streamed down my face, as I shook my head in denial. I couldn’t be a Shadow Walker. There was no way I could wield so much Dark magic when I was born to the Lights. Someone was playing a trick on me, and it was getting out of control. There was no way I had an ounce of evil within my soul. I was a good person. I did good things. I couldn’t possibly be a Shadow Walker." - Rozalia
But everything that has happened to Rozalia before paled in comparison to what she discovered in her next "gym" class while engaged in a mock battle with a classmate....
""Something’s shifting, and I can feel it in my bones. And I know that sounds ludicrous, but it’s true. I can’t shake the feeling something bad is going to happen, and you’re going to need to trust those you never imagined you would.”" - Nova, Rozalia's roommate
Rozalia is about to embark on a journey... A journey filled with uncertainty, danger and betrayal... A journey of discovery... A journey to her ultimate destiny.
Riveting! A must read for anyone who enjoys paranormal fantasy with action, adventure, danger, and a kiss of heat!
But that is only the beginning of Rozalia's humiliation and confusion. Beset on all sides by malicious actions and cutting words, Rozalia finally finds her twin sister in the cafeteria and runs to her for comfort; but her comfort is fleeting and dissapates like an early morning fog when Rozalia sees her boyfriend Brody, and he breaks it off with her.... Just because she's been identified as a Dark! Rozalia is becoming more and more confused, as the life she has known her entire life is slipping through her fingers as sands through the hourglass of Time...
"Tears streamed down my face, as I shook my head in denial. I couldn’t be a Shadow Walker. There was no way I could wield so much Dark magic when I was born to the Lights. Someone was playing a trick on me, and it was getting out of control. There was no way I had an ounce of evil within my soul. I was a good person. I did good things. I couldn’t possibly be a Shadow Walker." - Rozalia
But everything that has happened to Rozalia before paled in comparison to what she discovered in her next "gym" class while engaged in a mock battle with a classmate....
""Something’s shifting, and I can feel it in my bones. And I know that sounds ludicrous, but it’s true. I can’t shake the feeling something bad is going to happen, and you’re going to need to trust those you never imagined you would.”" - Nova, Rozalia's roommate
Rozalia is about to embark on a journey... A journey filled with uncertainty, danger and betrayal... A journey of discovery... A journey to her ultimate destiny.
Riveting! A must read for anyone who enjoys paranormal fantasy with action, adventure, danger, and a kiss of heat!
August 19, 2019
I can’t get enough of supernatural beings in school (e.g., Shadow Falls, Hex Hall, Vampire Academy, and the Legacies tv show). After reading the synopsis, I knew this would be my kind of book. It’s a light read as I read it in a day.
The book takes place at Night Shade Academy where the four factions (Light Witches, Dark Witches, Vampires, and Lycans) go after they’ve completed regular high school. The school helps them harness their power and teaches them how to blend in with humans once they leave the school. Zalia and her twin sister Kayla are light witches who were born from two light witches so when the wards to the Light Witch dorm entrance won’t let Zalia through, she thinks the wards have malfunctioned. She’s taken to the Dark Witch entrance instead where she is able to walk right through the wards and thus starts her schooling as a Dark Witch.
Zalia learns how the Light Witches have lied to them about how the Dark Witches were formed. Her new roommate, Nova, equips her with the rules to survival: never let your guard down, don’t trust what you see, show no fear, and always fight back. The Dark Witches, Vampires, and Lycans have gym class which sounds innocuous but it’s where they’re paired up to fight one another with any means necessary to see who is the best fighter.
Zalia makes friends with people in other houses…eventually. Nobody really likes the fact that she was a Light Witch since the other factions don’t really like the Light Witches as they think they are better than the other factions. Zalia has to figure out who she can trust and rely on her instincts and skills in order to solve a mystery happening at school.
The book takes place at Night Shade Academy where the four factions (Light Witches, Dark Witches, Vampires, and Lycans) go after they’ve completed regular high school. The school helps them harness their power and teaches them how to blend in with humans once they leave the school. Zalia and her twin sister Kayla are light witches who were born from two light witches so when the wards to the Light Witch dorm entrance won’t let Zalia through, she thinks the wards have malfunctioned. She’s taken to the Dark Witch entrance instead where she is able to walk right through the wards and thus starts her schooling as a Dark Witch.
Zalia learns how the Light Witches have lied to them about how the Dark Witches were formed. Her new roommate, Nova, equips her with the rules to survival: never let your guard down, don’t trust what you see, show no fear, and always fight back. The Dark Witches, Vampires, and Lycans have gym class which sounds innocuous but it’s where they’re paired up to fight one another with any means necessary to see who is the best fighter.
Zalia makes friends with people in other houses…eventually. Nobody really likes the fact that she was a Light Witch since the other factions don’t really like the Light Witches as they think they are better than the other factions. Zalia has to figure out who she can trust and rely on her instincts and skills in order to solve a mystery happening at school.
November 18, 2019
2.5 stars.
Was fun to read and i enjoyed the banter and relationships and the whole premise but everything happened too fast and was resolved too fast and they didn't have time to develop relationships properly so you felt for them and were cheering for them or even to second guess motives or for friendships to form and interactions to happen and getting to know each other also the plot was a little under developed and we needed more development and time to get anxious when the main thing happened because it was like bam everythings fine this is where they are, this is who it was even though for a second you thought (quite obviously) that it was someone else it wasn't. Also with some of the supporting cast is was like why did the big bad thing need to happen to most of them at once! Like i was looking forward to some teamwork which was what i thought was the point om getting to know the others and also with Nova I was interested in getting to know more about her gift and how that was going to come into the story, but it didn't seem to come in at all besides to say to trust the love interest which yeah cool nice to know but she could've been a huge assest and something interesting to try figure out what was going on with some cryptic seer stuff!! Same with the other friends, would've been more fun to see them help or figure stuff out together and use there combined skills etc. Was a bit lacking for me and i felt like it could have been flushed out more and lengthened to get more detail and drama and suspense and relationship/plot building into the book.
Was fun to read and i enjoyed the banter and relationships and the whole premise but everything happened too fast and was resolved too fast and they didn't have time to develop relationships properly so you felt for them and were cheering for them or even to second guess motives or for friendships to form and interactions to happen and getting to know each other also the plot was a little under developed and we needed more development and time to get anxious when the main thing happened because it was like bam everythings fine this is where they are, this is who it was even though for a second you thought (quite obviously) that it was someone else it wasn't. Also with some of the supporting cast is was like why did the big bad thing need to happen to most of them at once! Like i was looking forward to some teamwork which was what i thought was the point om getting to know the others and also with Nova I was interested in getting to know more about her gift and how that was going to come into the story, but it didn't seem to come in at all besides to say to trust the love interest which yeah cool nice to know but she could've been a huge assest and something interesting to try figure out what was going on with some cryptic seer stuff!! Same with the other friends, would've been more fun to see them help or figure stuff out together and use there combined skills etc. Was a bit lacking for me and i felt like it could have been flushed out more and lengthened to get more detail and drama and suspense and relationship/plot building into the book.
August 23, 2019
I recieved a digital version of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This book gave me similar vibes as Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins and Richelle Meads Vampire academy series?
4.5 Stars
From reading the synopsis, I already knew I was going to like our smartass main charackter Zalia. I love how she is witty, but also nerdy and brave. The events in this book really turn her life around and I loved how she progressed and really showed growth throughout this story.
The pacing of the story was great. There were some moments where we got deep dialog to get to know the characters alternated with more high paced action scenes. I loved how the suspence kept growing and it made me fly through the last 100 pages.
The workings of the academy were explained very well and early on so I could immediatly be engulfed in the story. I'm looking forward to seeing more of the world outside of Night Shade Academy in the sequel.
I especially appreciated that the sisterly bond was one of the main points of focus in this book, relationship wise. It was very believable. I feel like the storyline with Brody, on the other hand, could have been more detailed, so that's why I'm not giving it the full 5 stars. Also
Overall I absolutely enjoyed reading Nigh Shade Academy. I was kept in suspence until the very end and am now curiously awaiting the second book.
This book gave me similar vibes as Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins and Richelle Meads Vampire academy series?
4.5 Stars
From reading the synopsis, I already knew I was going to like our smartass main charackter Zalia. I love how she is witty, but also nerdy and brave. The events in this book really turn her life around and I loved how she progressed and really showed growth throughout this story.
The pacing of the story was great. There were some moments where we got deep dialog to get to know the characters alternated with more high paced action scenes. I loved how the suspence kept growing and it made me fly through the last 100 pages.
The workings of the academy were explained very well and early on so I could immediatly be engulfed in the story. I'm looking forward to seeing more of the world outside of Night Shade Academy in the sequel.
I especially appreciated that the sisterly bond was one of the main points of focus in this book, relationship wise. It was very believable. I feel like the storyline with Brody, on the other hand, could have been more detailed, so that's why I'm not giving it the full 5 stars. Also
Overall I absolutely enjoyed reading Nigh Shade Academy. I was kept in suspence until the very end and am now curiously awaiting the second book.
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