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Academy of Sorcery #3

Year 3, Shadow Magic

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Jade's story continues. Will she get her men? Will Lilith come for her again? Where did the Bellas go? Find out more answers next semester!


*This is a Reverse Harem series perfect for readers who enjoy:
+light bully romance & enemies-to-lovers
+college academies
+student-teacher forbidden romance
+badass heroine who holds her own against alpha males
+fun, fast-paced reads intended for ages 18+

247 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 12, 2020

399 people are currently reading
419 people want to read

About the author

Alexa B. James

48 books351 followers
Alexa B. James is the contemporary romance pen name for a 2-time USA Today Bestselling author of YA paranormal romance.

Alexa is a mom, wife, librarian, and country girl at heart. When she's not pounding away on her keyboard, you can find her in her garden, chasing chickens around the yard, or holed up under a blanket with a cup of coffee and a book with lots of kissing. She loves romance novels of every variety (why choose?) and plans to publish more this year.

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5 stars
433 (34%)
4 stars
372 (29%)
3 stars
333 (26%)
2 stars
77 (6%)
1 star
28 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
Profile Image for Charlotte.
3,996 reviews62 followers
August 14, 2020
Book 3 in this series and yes this book starts off a little slower but theres no less action. Bella is still causing her own brand of trouble. Darius gets a promotion but that complicates things for him and Jade (FMC). Ryker is still rubbing Jade up the wrong way. Rocco is the same as always but Thorn comes into his own more in this book and i loved that he did. The dance part in the club with him and Jade was a fav. Asher was brilliant too. The bit with him, Thorn and Elowin looking at Jades Laptop looking at what she was looking at had me in stitches. It was so funny!! Plenty of sexy times too. I cant get enough of this series. Its just too good and a brill read too
Profile Image for Cheryl Sedman.
1,159 reviews11 followers
September 15, 2020
What a series this is, every book grows into something so big that its exploding by the end of the book. The action that takes place with all the twists and turns that occur throughout the book leave you sat on the edge of your seat.
In his book we see Jade go back to the academy after summer break. For things to get crazy, but also things to heat up with Rocco. We also get to see more steamy scenes all throughout the book. No clues as to who so just pick up this amazing book. Just be prepared for hot action and also plenty of fighting. Wicked
Profile Image for Millie.
1,016 reviews34 followers
December 10, 2022
It's been nearly three years since I read the first two books so I re-read them to refresh my memory.
I still really like the first one! I like Jade, she's sassy and funny, and I love her spork.

But this third book is a huge disappointment. Everything I liked about the story I now hate. Specially Jade. She turned needy and stupid.

This Harry Potter narrative where only bad things happen to Jade at the academy is silly. She's the most vulnerable when she's at Silas because neither her guards or Darius are with her, still no one tries to kill her?! It makes no sense.
Where is Lilith? Why does she appears in the first book but is a ghost in the next books? I won't even mention how Lilith isn't even involved in the second book...
We know in this one Lilith uses Dirk (which is kinda stupid imo) but it's so obvious, I facepalmed so hard.
Where is Silas? Why is he turned into a cartoonish character when he was this scary figure? Why Jade thinks of the future (mainly marriage) when she knows she has a life of a servant ahead of her? WHY WHY WHY is she not more upset about this?

I hate Ricker and I won't enjoy his must need redemption in the last book. He's far too gone for me to believe his change will be genuine. Why Bella?! Why not try to begin to make him appear more sympathetic? He's a HUGE asshole. He's not worthy of his friends and really not of Jade. I hate how she said "I won't forgive you" and then she forgives him... Have some self-respect Jade because that boy sure doesn't.

Why Jade wants to be friends with Bella? Why comfort her? It makes no sense. It was like the author tried to change Bella's character and then decided against it. What a whiplash.

The smutt was a bit too much, the scene with Bella/Ricker and the other one with Asher/Dirk, were just painful and cringey.

This book lacks feelings. The death of the professor is a non event. They just spend their evening eating junk food and watching TV like nothing happened. I'm sorry but this is not normal?! Elowen who shows a lot of signs of mental illness issues seems weirdly not affected. Like ok in the end she goes to Hell.
Also I'm confused about demons. They need a host but it's not explained if they can survive a bit without one or if they go back straight to Hell (we only know the answer at the end when Elowen jumps). And if they go back to Hell can they come back when they want if they find a host? Why Darius doesn't explain how demons work? Why doesn't he consider the possibility that the professor could be "alive"?

I'm ready to move on.
Profile Image for Michelle VanDaley.
1,705 reviews5 followers
February 7, 2021
My review is based on the audiobook. Overall I like the core story of this series. I really hoped Jade would mature a little more in this book but she really didn't. Her immature way of handling some issues is annoying. I know this is a RH but I think there is a sex scene in almost every chapter - it overtakes the story in my opinion - which some may prefer but I don't. The narrator does a wonderful job bringing the story to life. There is plenty of action, suspense and magic which kept my attention.
Profile Image for Skay Dee.
560 reviews
August 11, 2020
This book seemed to start slower than the others and is my least favorite but I still freaking love it! I’m so excited we got more from Thorn in this book. I cannot believe how much I hate a Bella. I am hoping and praying that the next book gives me all Ryker. I need him!
Profile Image for Eva.
48 reviews
March 12, 2024
I struggled at the beginning, found it really hard to get over Roccos constant want to have sex with his girlfriend AND his brother. Like wtf, he's constantly going on about wanting to share Jade with his brother, wanting to watch Ryker fuck Jade, tells her how they often share partners... Ew. The author could have made them friends, adoptive brothers, stepbrothers even but no, same parents, share 50% DNA, and like to have threesomes together. Hard to get away from that. And yes there was a line on how it's not incest because he doesn't want to be fucked by his brother, but close enough... Almost DNFed for this but i hate not finishing books.

Apart from that, once I got past that stage it was fine, the story lines move quickly, plot is fine, the sex is good although her orgasm is always described exactly the same... Thorn was the absolute highlight of this book, he's such a sweetheart, Rocco is cute too but needs to get over his brother. Ryker, I have issues with. Fucking a girl with a trash can on her head, outright saying he's pretending she's someone else? Ew. And why is his dick 12 inches, that's ridiculously huge... His attitude is also ridiculous. I do like his change in the end, he should have been written like that in the first place, rather than throwing a hissy fit because a girl he rejected fucked her boyfriend. And then Darius telling Jade they can't see eachother then randomly deciding to fuck her and give sexual 'punishments' for a seriously dangerous mistake? Doesn't track with his character. Asher however did stay true to himself, fucking a *spoiler* in pure Asher fashion. That was kind of hilarious, why was E turned into a lamp? 🤣
Ends on a cliffhanger, sort of. I'm guessing there's an adventure coming in the next and last one. Will probs read it just to finish the series, E better get a happy ending 🤞🏻
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews71 followers
August 15, 2020
⚔️⚔️ONE ACTION PACKED THRILL⚔️⚔️
Hatching hellions! Alexa brought her A-Game, laying out the heavy artillery, locked and loaded, dropping the bomb and raising the stakes, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. A roaring tempest of tangled exigency and deceptive events, noting the grueling trials and arduous tribulations, stumbling through the deadly twists and wicked turns, testing our characters in ways they could have never envisioned. Trudging through a minefield of daring drama, damning secrets, tantalizing intrigue, churning turmoil, intense situations, escalating danger and spiraling suspense, maneuvering through the cunning manipulations of malicious intent and vicious actions, blasting this jewel to life spectacularly. Limitations are heightened and exploited, unmasking the ruthless facts, harsh deals and dodging debacles, igniting a fierce determination with such intensity and exuberance, blasting this baby to life spectacularly. Shenanigans are rampant and havoc is rife, uncovering this heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, nerve racking page flipping, block buster, shifting this gem into overdrive, slamming it into a frenzy with an astonishing culmination. The characters, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming into charismatic personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and descriptions that feel as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Remarkable job Alexa, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Profile Image for Lexee Toste.
2,823 reviews19 followers
December 28, 2020
I absolutely loved this installment in the series! This was well written story. I listened to the audio version and the narrator has been fantastic for all the books. She does a really great job with all of the characters voices and accents and just drawing you in the story. This is the third book in the series and I do highly recommend reading/listening to the previous books as they are all built around our same characters as they interact with each other and Jade comes into her magic and battles the situations that arise around her. We get to see her on better terms with the guys in this book. I loved watching the relationship develop between all of them and the way that she doesn't just give in to Ryker but she doesn't give up on him either. I love the confidence that she has and the way that she continues to fight for her men and her friends. This one had plenty of action and intrigue along with the relationship building so there was plenty to hold your attention and keep you engaged from start to finish. I can't wait for the next book!! Fantastic series!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Profile Image for J.
4,109 reviews21 followers
December 18, 2020
This is book 3 in James and Rycerz's series Academy of Sorcery and continues Jade's story with her friends and her "guys". I am in love with these characters - each having their own defining qualities - they you also have Jades friends. This book is full of more secrets that need to be kept, secrets that are reveled and evil to be conquered. Plenty of steam in this read - wow! and the action and suspense is wonderfully entertaining as is the characters and their interactions. I am in love with this series and can't wait to know what will happen next in this war with Jade and Lilith.

Young does a great job with narration - able to change pitch and tone with the characters which brings them to life, as well as keeping a smooth narrative that makes listening a pure joy and does not take away from the story but rather enhances. Great Job all around!

This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
*this review is based on the audio version of this read
Profile Image for Rachel Osborne.
1,094 reviews19 followers
August 12, 2020
Jades story continues in this third book and oh boy was it hot hot hot! The characters are so unique and interesting that I loved the dynamic as individuals and when in a group. If we think Jade's life will get easier, think again. There's a new threat in the school and jade and her men will have to fight stronger than ever. There's lots of twists and turns, drama and happiness, and a great deal of heat which I loved. I couldn't put this book down and before I knew it, I was finished the book. That ending had me craving the final book more than ever. What a magical ride that had me smiling, laughing and left with my mouth wide open. Amazing read from start to finish! One of my favourite Rh academy series to date!
Profile Image for Bonnie .
217 reviews1 follower
August 15, 2020
Masterpiece...

It has been a long time and so worth the wait to read about Jade and her hot men, so many twists and turns and such an emotional rollercoaster of a ride with more steam then a tea kettle , it will have you turning on the fan to high. Extraordinary writing that will keep you entertained for hours you will be Bing reading to the wee hours of the morning just to find out what is going to happen next and hopefully Bella will get what she deserves finally, grab some tissues it does have some heartbreaking moments and screaming Noooo !! But be warned of the ending, big cliffhanger, but so worth the wait!! This one is more then 5 stars!! This book was reviewed by a Book Loving Vixen
Profile Image for Jessica.
890 reviews1 follower
November 22, 2021
Better

Ok so I was a bit confused because I had no clue that her and Rocco had made anything official and then the book started and it wss just yea my boyfriend. I was like what? And then with the I love yous from the other one and from what I could tell they really didn't have that much interaction with one another. I also want to add that ryker is a complete dick a I don't really like him, he better redeem himself in this next book. The only guy I truly like is darius and well of course Asher lol so this one was much better then the last. It dragged a little with the relationship drama but since there was a bit of mystery in it, it was more exciting. Not to mention all the sex scenes which were super hot! Now on to the conclusion of the series.
Profile Image for Missy .
213 reviews
December 21, 2022
A Spicy Setup for the Finale

The third book in this series gave readers more of everything: more spice, more angst, and more scheming enemies for its characters to contend with. It seamlessly set the stakes even higher than before as the MC battled not only those against her, but those closest to her as well. The fast-paced plot easily took readers through the ups and downs of the story, and paired with the explosive climax, ensured readers are fully invested for the final book in this series.

With the balance between the romantic angst, the academy drama, and the life threatening danger the characters faced, this book created a suspenseful story that was easy to be entertained by.

For a list of trigger warnings, please see my reviews for the previous books.
Profile Image for Christina Luberts.
2,780 reviews7 followers
August 17, 2020
We have lots of drama, a few tears, and suspence. We learn a little more on the characters and bring more in. Jade is back to school and hoping for the best, but what she know might not help her this year. Can she get thru the year without all of Bella's snark? Can she get her men to accept her? Can she find peace? Will Lilth come after her again or something else? Can she control her magic or will it flare like last year?

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tasha Mahoney.
1,215 reviews44 followers
December 18, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed the audiobook version of Shadow Magic. I enjoyed the pace and plot that had plenty of mystery and of course plenty of love action. I really hope that there are more books to come in the series as the story lends itself to more great plots. As with the other books in the series, it contains a full plot (and it's a goodun) but also has a storyline that has run through all of the books.
The narration has been fantastic in this book and maintained a high level throughout. I became more familiar with the characters voices and they felt more recognisable for me.
Profile Image for Jocelyne.
4,935 reviews22 followers
July 7, 2021
This is the third term in the Academy of Sorcery Series, a RH Paranormal Romance. The story continues where the second term left off. You have to listen to this Series in order. Jade's adventures, along with her sorcerers guards, Rocco, Thorn, and Ryker, and the Professor Darius. The storyline is steamy, fun, and entertaining, filled with magic, intrigue, and twists and turns. The story ends with a cliffhanger, and I am looking forward to listen to the next book in the Series. Marnye Young did a fantastic job with the narration
Profile Image for Scarolet Ellis.
7,445 reviews52 followers
August 20, 2020
Academy of Sorcery 3: Shadow Magic by Alexa B. James is an amazing story to read. This is book number three in this amazing series that I have loved reading and can not wait to finish this amazing series. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about reverse harems, fantasy and paranormal romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Ashley Hedden.
5,259 reviews43 followers
March 27, 2022
Term 3, Shadow Magic (Academy of Sorcery #3) was a great read by Alexa B. James, Catherine Rycerz. This book finds Jade's story continuing. As soon as she returns to campus, things get complicated. She finds her friends not speaking to each other. The professor she is falling for has new obligations that keep them apart. And as always, something is going on with Bella. I enjoyed reading this book and can't wait to read more by the author.
Profile Image for Mari C.
356 reviews18 followers
August 15, 2020
A whole new year is about to begin at the Academy of Sorcery bringing new characters and adventures to Jade’s life. New and old enemies emerge from the shadows throwing new obstacles into her path while she struggles with everything in her plate. We get to see nee parts of the academy this year and new dynamics established after the events from the previous school year. There is a slew of twists and turns along with some breadcrumbs that suggest something more may be hidden from our view. I can’t wait for more!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Danni Rogers.
257 reviews3 followers
August 12, 2020
This series just keeps sinking more claws into me and making me more obsessed! I love the character development in this book! The way the relationships evolved so realistically and how things weren’t just “easy”. That plot twist totally got me! My heart kept breaking, melting, and stopping all together! I need the next book already!!!
Profile Image for Lynni.
16 reviews
August 13, 2020
As can see I got this as an ARC review so to prepare myself I read all the previous books. I have to say that I am in love with this series. It is not about super young college kids, its about mid 20 ish. Its got hot steamy parts but also interesting characters and a bit of Dom mixed in. I highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,016 reviews
August 14, 2020
This series just keeps getting better. Jade is growing into powers along with learning what she wants and who she is. There are big changes ahead for the academy. Lilith is still trying to get her, but her guards who mean so much more to her, are there to protect. There is some majorly HOT scenes in this book. The steam is really stepping up. I enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Nancy.
25 reviews1 follower
August 16, 2020
Again a fantastic read!
After last years events and only one Bella to put up with, this year can only be better!
Or so Jade thought....

I really enjoyed this book. It has more "fun" times and we get to know the boys better. So it's a win/win in my book! But that ending.... Boy o boy...
I hope that the next (and sadly) last book is even better...
But no pressure Alexa B James..
9 reviews4 followers
August 18, 2020

Reviewed in the United States on August 14, 2020
Man I absolutely loved this book!!! You have Jade and the guys starting sophomore year. Hoping to get to enjoy this year and get some peace is blown to smithereens, when she’s attacked by an Ogre. Of course the year wouldn’t be complete without some hot sex, some lies and lovers!!! Can’t wait for book 4
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Michelle.
10.7k reviews28 followers
August 21, 2020
Shadow Magic is book three of the Academy of Sorcery series and this series just gets better and better with each book I read. From the well developed characters to the well written story this is a great read. I am loving Jade and how she's growing as a character. After that cliffhanger, I can't wait to read the next book to find out what happens next. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.
Profile Image for Billie.
5,784 reviews71 followers
August 23, 2020
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believeable.
Great suspense and action with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
2,416 reviews
September 3, 2020
This is term 3 of the Academy of Sorcery series. This is a great series. Book 3 is well written with likable characters. I love the storyline and I’ve been hooked from the very start. I would recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Roger.
5,676 reviews28 followers
Read
December 15, 2020
Shadow Magic: Year 3 (Academy of Sorcery #3), my third read in the series from author Alexa B. James. I was given an Audible copy of this book and am voluntarily reading & reviewing it. Narrator Marnye Young's narration adds to the book's enjoyment. I look forward to the next book from this author and to Academy of Sorcery #4. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018).
Profile Image for Sonya.
393 reviews
September 2, 2021
Little Gem

This series is an unexpected gem. Jaded is an amazing heroine with some badass guys and friends. The story is intriguing with the right amount humour. I will be surprised if you don`t get hooked from the first book, an luckily all four books are available on Kindle Unlimited.
Profile Image for Gwen.
543 reviews2 followers
January 5, 2023
This book has such a fun idea. I really like many of the characters and the variety of personalities. There is so much potential for great romance scenes, incredible battles and cool magic stuff.....but it just falls flat, lacking details that could really elevate the story. It is both too much about the "sex goddess" and not enough. Also, I found tons of typos on this book. Bummer.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews

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