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The School of Nine
Flunking out of Brightling Academy—a prestigious finishing school for Muses-in-training—isn’t an option for Bianca Harper. But if she doesn’t master Poise and Charm or stop tripping over her ballgown, failure is inevitable. Then he shows up: Sebastian Greenbriar, the first male student to walk through Brightling’s halls in decades. For extra credit, Bianca agrees to help him settle in—even though putting up with his self-absorbed attitude feels more like a punishment than a chance at redemption.
But just as Bianca begins to make good, she discovers an even bigger problem lurking in the shadows. As foretold by ancients, the Well of Imagination—the force from which Muses draw their powers to inspire—is running dry, threatening the future of Muse-kind and the beauty they bring into the world. Sebastian’s connection to this danger is impossible to miss, but when he isn’t who or what he claims, can Bianca rely on him to help her stop the impending darkness?
But just as Bianca begins to make good, she discovers an even bigger problem lurking in the shadows. As foretold by ancients, the Well of Imagination—the force from which Muses draw their powers to inspire—is running dry, threatening the future of Muse-kind and the beauty they bring into the world. Sebastian’s connection to this danger is impossible to miss, but when he isn’t who or what he claims, can Bianca rely on him to help her stop the impending darkness?
- GenresFantasy
150 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2019
4 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Marin
21 books316 followersWhen Amanda was a child, her father traveled frequently for business, always bringing her back a book as a present. Whether she was getting lost in the pages of a tale about far-away knights, girls with supernatural powers, or kindly giants, she was quickly hooked on stories. Nowadays, she writes books of her own.
Amanda lives in the northeastern United States with her family and pet poodle, Snickers. She is a fan of Starbucks lattes, sleeping late, and books with characters that make you go "aww."
www.amandamarinwrites.com
www.facebook.com/amandamarinwrites
www.instagram.com/amarinwrites
https://twitter.com/AMarinWrites
Amanda lives in the northeastern United States with her family and pet poodle, Snickers. She is a fan of Starbucks lattes, sleeping late, and books with characters that make you go "aww."
www.amandamarinwrites.com
www.facebook.com/amandamarinwrites
www.instagram.com/amarinwrites
https://twitter.com/AMarinWrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
May 14, 2024
Bianca is a muse-in-training who is struggling to pass her 'Poise and Charm class' at Brightling Academy, a prestigious finishing school for muses that is predominantly female. However, her problems are compounded when Sebastian, the first male student in decades, joins the school. At the same time, strange events are occurring both inside and outside the academy, leading to fears that an ancient prophecy may be coming true. The clock is ticking to find a solution and prevent the Well of Imagination from running dry forever.
This YA novella is well-written and features an original premise with well-rounded characters, drama, magic, and a touch of clean romance.
This YA novella is well-written and features an original premise with well-rounded characters, drama, magic, and a touch of clean romance.
May 2, 2024
3.5 stars
With a unique and intriguing storyline, The School of Nine is a YA paranormal fantasy romance tale with clever world building.
With characters that are interesting and well-developed you will fall in love with them. I really like the premise and the mythos of muses in training along with prophecies and the chosen one.
The School of Nine is set in a magical world of Brightling Academy - a prestigious school for female Muses. So, when Sebastian turns up imagine everyone’s surprise but not everything is as it seems.
Bianca has her reservations about this newcomer but there is more to him than she first thought.
With tension, intrigue, frustration, drama, turmoil, danger, action, adventure, there is something for YA lovers of magic.
Will Bianca be able to rely on help to stop the trouble before them? To find out you will need to grab a copy of this book.
With a unique and intriguing storyline, The School of Nine is a YA paranormal fantasy romance tale with clever world building.
With characters that are interesting and well-developed you will fall in love with them. I really like the premise and the mythos of muses in training along with prophecies and the chosen one.
The School of Nine is set in a magical world of Brightling Academy - a prestigious school for female Muses. So, when Sebastian turns up imagine everyone’s surprise but not everything is as it seems.
Bianca has her reservations about this newcomer but there is more to him than she first thought.
With tension, intrigue, frustration, drama, turmoil, danger, action, adventure, there is something for YA lovers of magic.
Will Bianca be able to rely on help to stop the trouble before them? To find out you will need to grab a copy of this book.
February 9, 2022
I read this as included in the Academy of Magic anthology.
Bianca is training how to use her muse powers at Brightling Academy for Muses. The headmistress points out to her that she is currently set to fail because her grade in Poise and Charm class is pulling her GPA down. As extra credit they assign Sebastian to her the first boy student at the school, to help show him around and help him fit in. Bianca and her best friend/roommate have also recently noticed the number of muses seems to be declining, movies and music has become repetitive, and a famous painting was recently stolen, all things mentioned as signs on Clio’s lost scroll that Bianca’s grandmother translated, heralding the end of imagination and goodness in the world.
The writing in this is excellent. It fully kept my attention with the mystery of what was happening to the magic in their world, and the romance between Bianca and Sebastian and just what was he hiding. I did love Sebastian for his nervousness as a new student. Bianca came across as rather bland in personality. There wasn’t anything that really stood out about her, making her a rather generic narrator. I did like that the author used a supernatural type (muse) that really isn’t used much in paranormal books these days, keeping it fresh and inventing how they used their magic in the modern world. It made a nice change from all of the vampire academy, werewolf academy, monster slayer academy, angel academy, fairy tale academy, and wizarding academy books on the market these days. I also tend to grade these academy books on how magical the school is, and if imagination was actually put into making the classes different. And in this one, the school was basically a Victorian girls’ finishing school, complete with classes in poise and charm, etiquette, dancing, and wearing long dresses and heels. The other problem is that Bianca, our main character mostly just watches the events unfold. Her purpose is mainly to lay out all of the events, and tell us the parallels and put the pieces together, but she doesn’t really take part until near the end of the book. She only uses her muse powers maybe once in the book, in the first chapter. Kash is a lot more active than Bianca.
Bianca is training how to use her muse powers at Brightling Academy for Muses. The headmistress points out to her that she is currently set to fail because her grade in Poise and Charm class is pulling her GPA down. As extra credit they assign Sebastian to her the first boy student at the school, to help show him around and help him fit in. Bianca and her best friend/roommate have also recently noticed the number of muses seems to be declining, movies and music has become repetitive, and a famous painting was recently stolen, all things mentioned as signs on Clio’s lost scroll that Bianca’s grandmother translated, heralding the end of imagination and goodness in the world.
The writing in this is excellent. It fully kept my attention with the mystery of what was happening to the magic in their world, and the romance between Bianca and Sebastian and just what was he hiding. I did love Sebastian for his nervousness as a new student. Bianca came across as rather bland in personality. There wasn’t anything that really stood out about her, making her a rather generic narrator. I did like that the author used a supernatural type (muse) that really isn’t used much in paranormal books these days, keeping it fresh and inventing how they used their magic in the modern world. It made a nice change from all of the vampire academy, werewolf academy, monster slayer academy, angel academy, fairy tale academy, and wizarding academy books on the market these days. I also tend to grade these academy books on how magical the school is, and if imagination was actually put into making the classes different. And in this one, the school was basically a Victorian girls’ finishing school, complete with classes in poise and charm, etiquette, dancing, and wearing long dresses and heels. The other problem is that Bianca, our main character mostly just watches the events unfold. Her purpose is mainly to lay out all of the events, and tell us the parallels and put the pieces together, but she doesn’t really take part until near the end of the book. She only uses her muse powers maybe once in the book, in the first chapter. Kash is a lot more active than Bianca.
February 16, 2020
I really loved this book! Bianca is attending Brightling Academy - a prestigious school for Muses. This is normally an all female school, so when Sebastian shows up it causes quite a stir. Bianca agrees to help him settle in - for extra credit - but she’s not sure that dealing with his attitude is worth it. But when a larger problem shows itself, Bianca and Sebastian need to work together or the future of Muse-kind may be short lived. This book is enticing and easy to read! I enjoyed Brightling academy and the world it was set in. There’s tension and intrigue and I really liked the chemistry between the main characters! I highly recommend this book!
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.
February 17, 2023
An a-musing and inspiring novella!
This was a fun, contemporary fantasy with an unusual magic system of muses and seers. The gift of magic is passed down genetically for the benefit of humanity and to improve the quality of life. A muse chooses to follow one of the nine original muses, each with a different focus: comedy, tragedy, music, history, fine art, poetry, and so on. The plot was entertaining and the characters were believable and endearing. As a teacher, it made me think about the responsibility we bear to inspire the next generation to fulfill their potential. Clean, YA fantasy with sweet romance.
This was a fun, contemporary fantasy with an unusual magic system of muses and seers. The gift of magic is passed down genetically for the benefit of humanity and to improve the quality of life. A muse chooses to follow one of the nine original muses, each with a different focus: comedy, tragedy, music, history, fine art, poetry, and so on. The plot was entertaining and the characters were believable and endearing. As a teacher, it made me think about the responsibility we bear to inspire the next generation to fulfill their potential. Clean, YA fantasy with sweet romance.
February 10, 2020
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
If it wasn't for my ankle getting sprained, I would have finished this book so much sooner! It was such a wonderful and different read. Bee Harper is a Muse, the hidden inspiration that guides all the arts and good deeds in the world. She attends Brightling Academy with her best friend Kash. One day, a new student appears and causes a ripple throughout the school, a boy; which is rare for muses but it happens. Sebastian is the talk of the school, as the only boy in an (unofficially) all-girl school, and when Bee gets assigned to be his handler, she's none to thrilled. Sebastian isn't what she thought he was though, and they quickly become friends, even as everything around them seems to be falling apart.
I needed to brush up on my Greek Mythology for this one, but I was so enthralled by the mythos of this book. A school for modern day muses? Brilliant. The characters chemistry flows easily, it's not an instant love connection, and there is just enough tension between best friends to be believable. It's such a short story, I find myself wishing there was more, more to dig my claws into and soak up of the school and the world revolved around it. But it was the perfect, light and fun read!
If it wasn't for my ankle getting sprained, I would have finished this book so much sooner! It was such a wonderful and different read. Bee Harper is a Muse, the hidden inspiration that guides all the arts and good deeds in the world. She attends Brightling Academy with her best friend Kash. One day, a new student appears and causes a ripple throughout the school, a boy; which is rare for muses but it happens. Sebastian is the talk of the school, as the only boy in an (unofficially) all-girl school, and when Bee gets assigned to be his handler, she's none to thrilled. Sebastian isn't what she thought he was though, and they quickly become friends, even as everything around them seems to be falling apart.
I needed to brush up on my Greek Mythology for this one, but I was so enthralled by the mythos of this book. A school for modern day muses? Brilliant. The characters chemistry flows easily, it's not an instant love connection, and there is just enough tension between best friends to be believable. It's such a short story, I find myself wishing there was more, more to dig my claws into and soak up of the school and the world revolved around it. But it was the perfect, light and fun read!
February 16, 2020
ONE STUPENDOUS ADVENTURE!!!
Slamdunk! Amanda rocks this bad boy to its own beat, blasting out a refreshingly unique approach and following through, throwing this baby into a tizzy with unbelievable results. When the going gets tough, she pulls on her ass kicking boots, unleashing her wrath and blowing this bad boy into a tailspin with a life altering, mind-blowing culmination. Twixt and twinned and put through the ringer, keeping pace with a slew of shocking twists and startling turns, testing our characters in ways they never saw coming. Add drama, turmoil, intrigue, uncertainty, danger, undercurrents, soaring suspense and perplexing situations along with a boatload of chaos while dodging disaster, makes for one thrilling adventure. The characters are authentic and original with qualities and traits that transforms into amazing personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and colorful descriptions so rich and lively, they blend and flow smoothly. Remarkable job Amanda, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
Slamdunk! Amanda rocks this bad boy to its own beat, blasting out a refreshingly unique approach and following through, throwing this baby into a tizzy with unbelievable results. When the going gets tough, she pulls on her ass kicking boots, unleashing her wrath and blowing this bad boy into a tailspin with a life altering, mind-blowing culmination. Twixt and twinned and put through the ringer, keeping pace with a slew of shocking twists and startling turns, testing our characters in ways they never saw coming. Add drama, turmoil, intrigue, uncertainty, danger, undercurrents, soaring suspense and perplexing situations along with a boatload of chaos while dodging disaster, makes for one thrilling adventure. The characters are authentic and original with qualities and traits that transforms into amazing personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and colorful descriptions so rich and lively, they blend and flow smoothly. Remarkable job Amanda, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
May 16, 2024
This YA fantasy book was amazing and very incredible to read. This was filled with so many twists and turns I didn’t know if it was going to twist or turn, which is what kept me reading till the end. It had a whole lot of drama, love, danger, uncertainty, adventure and so much more. When I boy comes to an almost all girls school it really causes a stir. Bianca is then assigned to help him get settled in, and well one thing turns to another, and they become good friends. But then a big issue starts to happen so will Sebastian come to help Biance and save the well of imagination. But will he really do it or is there something else going on. The character in this book is so well-written, that I also felt like I was watching it. The story was well paced and kept in a straight line but also grabbed me and kept me reading. This was a very incredible read, highly recommend.
February 12, 2020
Bianca Harper is a Muse-in-training attending Brightling Academy. When a new student arrives, it causes a stir because Sebastian Greenbriar is male in a school that is normally all-female. Bianca is assigned to work with him, helping him get settled, and they become friends, but things are not as they seem.
When the “Well of Imagination”, where Muses draw their powers, starts to run dry, can Bianca rely on him to help her, even when he isn’t who or what he claims?
This book was a good read with well-drawn characters. The story line was well-paced and kept the reader’s attention. Grab your copy and see what’s going on with the inspirational waters which would have a serious detrimental effect on what the Muses bring to the world!
When the “Well of Imagination”, where Muses draw their powers, starts to run dry, can Bianca rely on him to help her, even when he isn’t who or what he claims?
This book was a good read with well-drawn characters. The story line was well-paced and kept the reader’s attention. Grab your copy and see what’s going on with the inspirational waters which would have a serious detrimental effect on what the Muses bring to the world!
March 12, 2020
Finally a series on muses
After multitudes of books and series on angels, demons, god's and more, we finally have a series that is on Muses.
The first book in itself was quite fast and action packed. We meet muses in training, the prophecy and the chosen one.
After the power packed punch, I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After multitudes of books and series on angels, demons, god's and more, we finally have a series that is on Muses.
The first book in itself was quite fast and action packed. We meet muses in training, the prophecy and the chosen one.
After the power packed punch, I can't wait for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 24, 2020
In this book we meet Bianca and her friend kas who are muse's. After going to practice their powers in influence of the arts. They return to a male in the school. From here they go through lots of twists and turns, all while Bianca and Sebastian grow closer to end the book in an epic battle with a great ending
June 6, 2020
A delightful story about an academy of muses. Briana comes from a long line of successful muses and is failing. She must not fail her lineage, but how will she manage to pull off a miracle. Perhaps the introduction of a boy at the all-girls Brightling Academy will help. She and her best friend Kassia will have to sort it all out, but even larger challenges are afoot. How will it all play out?
February 2, 2020
This had some very interesting characters. While I wasn't too fond of the male lead, I did like the chemistry between the two main characters and didn't want to put this book down.
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.
February 9, 2020
Great read! I enjoyed Bianca's story! Its well written and shes such a great character! Im excited to see where this series goes!
February 13, 2020
Thrilling read with a mystery. Who is he can he help. The characters were fabulous and the storyline was a star to read. Fun read
August 4, 2020
I loved the heroine in this story, and the under-used concept of muses. Enjoyable standalone Novella.
February 17, 2020
I loved this book. I loved the cover. The storyline and characters are very well written and keeps your interest. A book that really keeps the readers interest and one I would recommend reading.
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.
May 4, 2024
4.5 Stars
The School of Nine is the first book in The Mythic Academy Collection series by Amanda Marin. This is a captivating YA fantasy with a magical academy/finishing school setting, Muses, sinister foes, drama, danger, high stakes, agendas, prophecy, legends/myths, good vs evil, family, duty/responsibility, friendship, journey of discovery, self-discovery, action, adventure, secrets, and a touch of sweet (clean) romance.
This isn’t the first book that I have read by Ms. Marin, and having loved her previous books, I was excited to start on a new series from her. I loved the premise, the whole ‘Mystic Academy’ aspect had me hooked before I’d even read a word. But then the first few pages certainly ‘sealed the deal’ for me.
Bianca Harper is a Muse who can trace her heritage back to one of the original nine Muses, and with that legacy comes the heavy weight of responsibility. She feels the weight of expectations on her shoulders - and she really isn’t sure she has what it takes to live up to those high expectations. She and her fellow classmates at Brightling Academy are learning everything a good Muse must know in order to ‘inspire’ all the artistic, musical, and creative ideas, which in turn then spreads goodwill and hope throughout all of humanity. But strange things have started happening, with an ancient prophecy coming to pass, and someone seems all too eager to speed those things along... And on top of that, Bianca and her friends discover that the Well of Imagination is running dry. Now they must find a way to help replenish the well, to stop the prophecy from completing, before it’s all too late. The very fate of humanity is riding on outcome. Add in a new male student- the first ‘male’ muse in decades, tension, suspense, dramatic developments, and a touch of romance- and the story takes a captivating turn.
Well worth the read- looking forward to Book #2!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Amanda Marin!
The School of Nine is the first book in The Mythic Academy Collection series by Amanda Marin. This is a captivating YA fantasy with a magical academy/finishing school setting, Muses, sinister foes, drama, danger, high stakes, agendas, prophecy, legends/myths, good vs evil, family, duty/responsibility, friendship, journey of discovery, self-discovery, action, adventure, secrets, and a touch of sweet (clean) romance.
This isn’t the first book that I have read by Ms. Marin, and having loved her previous books, I was excited to start on a new series from her. I loved the premise, the whole ‘Mystic Academy’ aspect had me hooked before I’d even read a word. But then the first few pages certainly ‘sealed the deal’ for me.
Bianca Harper is a Muse who can trace her heritage back to one of the original nine Muses, and with that legacy comes the heavy weight of responsibility. She feels the weight of expectations on her shoulders - and she really isn’t sure she has what it takes to live up to those high expectations. She and her fellow classmates at Brightling Academy are learning everything a good Muse must know in order to ‘inspire’ all the artistic, musical, and creative ideas, which in turn then spreads goodwill and hope throughout all of humanity. But strange things have started happening, with an ancient prophecy coming to pass, and someone seems all too eager to speed those things along... And on top of that, Bianca and her friends discover that the Well of Imagination is running dry. Now they must find a way to help replenish the well, to stop the prophecy from completing, before it’s all too late. The very fate of humanity is riding on outcome. Add in a new male student- the first ‘male’ muse in decades, tension, suspense, dramatic developments, and a touch of romance- and the story takes a captivating turn.
Well worth the read- looking forward to Book #2!
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Amanda Marin!
May 11, 2024
The School of Nine is the first book in the Mythic Academy Collection by Amanda Marin. This first book is focused on Bianca Harper and the Brightling Academy for Muses. It is a wonderful fantasy story with Muses, Seers, prophecy, legends/myths, magic, self-discovery, romance and friendships.
This is the first book I have read by Amanda Marin, but it will not be my last! Wonderful world-building and characters as well as a captivating storyline.
Bianca isn't the typical muse, she can trace her heritage back to the original 9 muses, and to make matters worse it is looking like she might flunk out of school - which is not an option. When the first male muse in decades arrives, Sebastian, she agrees to show him around for extra credit. Weird things have started to happen, an ancient prophecy coming to pass, and now they have found out that the Well of Creativity is starting to run dry.
Now Bianca needs to find a way to replenish the well, stop the prophecy from completing, and pass her academy classes. How is Sebastian linked to this danger? Will he help her try and stop the impending darkness? Is the school and/or humanity in danger? Will they succeed in their plans?
While I did enjoy this novel, I felt it could have been longer so that there would be room for more development of the plot. This is a part of a series, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel as well. I do plan on recommending this book as well as reading more from the author.
This is the first book I have read by Amanda Marin, but it will not be my last! Wonderful world-building and characters as well as a captivating storyline.
Bianca isn't the typical muse, she can trace her heritage back to the original 9 muses, and to make matters worse it is looking like she might flunk out of school - which is not an option. When the first male muse in decades arrives, Sebastian, she agrees to show him around for extra credit. Weird things have started to happen, an ancient prophecy coming to pass, and now they have found out that the Well of Creativity is starting to run dry.
Now Bianca needs to find a way to replenish the well, stop the prophecy from completing, and pass her academy classes. How is Sebastian linked to this danger? Will he help her try and stop the impending darkness? Is the school and/or humanity in danger? Will they succeed in their plans?
While I did enjoy this novel, I felt it could have been longer so that there would be room for more development of the plot. This is a part of a series, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel as well. I do plan on recommending this book as well as reading more from the author.
May 15, 2024
Bianca Harper is a legacy at Brightling Academy due to her family lineage. Being a muse, there is a certain standard to follow. When she finds out she is flunking Poise and Charm class and close to not graduating, she is willing to do anything to pass. The Headmistress tells Bianca that if she takes the new student, Sebastian, under her wing, it would count as extra credit.
Sebastian is the only male in the entire school. He is loving the attention he is getting from all the girls. Bianca is immediately annoyed and thinks he is a jerk.
When bad things start happening around the town, mostly targeting the arts that the muses are trained to protect, Bianca and Sebastian team up to figure out who and why would someone do this. Bianca’s best friend is suspicious of Sebastian. All of the trouble started when he first arrived at the school but Bianca is getting blinded by her potential feelings for him. There is an unfulfilled prophecy of the destruction of the ‘Well of Imagination’. All signs point to someone trying to speed up that prophecy. It’s up to Bianca to stop the prophecy from happening while also trying to keep up with her classes.
This was a fast paced filled with action. The premise of a school full of muses was unique and I really enjoyed that aspect. Bianca is a take action now, deal with consequences later kind of girl but she was also calm and caring. I could see myself befriending her if I went to her school.
Sebastian is the only male in the entire school. He is loving the attention he is getting from all the girls. Bianca is immediately annoyed and thinks he is a jerk.
When bad things start happening around the town, mostly targeting the arts that the muses are trained to protect, Bianca and Sebastian team up to figure out who and why would someone do this. Bianca’s best friend is suspicious of Sebastian. All of the trouble started when he first arrived at the school but Bianca is getting blinded by her potential feelings for him. There is an unfulfilled prophecy of the destruction of the ‘Well of Imagination’. All signs point to someone trying to speed up that prophecy. It’s up to Bianca to stop the prophecy from happening while also trying to keep up with her classes.
This was a fast paced filled with action. The premise of a school full of muses was unique and I really enjoyed that aspect. Bianca is a take action now, deal with consequences later kind of girl but she was also calm and caring. I could see myself befriending her if I went to her school.
April 6, 2020
Amanda Marin has become one of my favorite authors. Her writing is absolutely beautiful. I knew going in to The School of Nine that it would be different from North to Nara and I was excited to read it. And, of course, I loved it.
Bianca is a Muse, a person who inspires creativity in others. She attends a finishing school for Muses. Until recently it was an all-girl school. Then Sebastian transfers right before graduation and suddenly strange things start happening. Muses seem to be losing their touch. Is a long forgotten prophecy true? Is Sebastian connected to it? Is the school in danger?
My biggest complaint about The School of Nine is that it was too short for the plot to be developed to it's potential. A lot of punch is packed into too few pages. I do understand that it was written for an anthology and that Amanda is planning a series. So maybe things will be more fleshed out in future installments. I'll definitely be picking them up.
The School of Nine makes a wonderful companion novel to Star Daughter, which releases later this year.
Nine Muses. Nine paths. Nine Board members. Infinite possibilities.
Bianca is a Muse, a person who inspires creativity in others. She attends a finishing school for Muses. Until recently it was an all-girl school. Then Sebastian transfers right before graduation and suddenly strange things start happening. Muses seem to be losing their touch. Is a long forgotten prophecy true? Is Sebastian connected to it? Is the school in danger?
My biggest complaint about The School of Nine is that it was too short for the plot to be developed to it's potential. A lot of punch is packed into too few pages. I do understand that it was written for an anthology and that Amanda is planning a series. So maybe things will be more fleshed out in future installments. I'll definitely be picking them up.
The School of Nine makes a wonderful companion novel to Star Daughter, which releases later this year.
June 7, 2020
He knows a lot about her but what does she know about him?
In a world where inspiration seems to be copying someone else's ideas and imagination seems to be dwindling, this book can inspire one to look inside themselves. Bianca belongs to a long line of muses that can be traced back to one of the original nine muses. Because of her lineage she knows her forcus will be with the muse of history so her class for poise and charm seems useless to her. She has been told that if she doesn't pass that class that she will not graduate.
Bianca is told that if she helps a new transfer get caught up and manages to not be late again for poise and charm class that she would be able to earn enough extra credit to pass the class. The one issue is that the new student is a boy, which is rare for a muse, plus he has already insulted her. As she helps him to get settled into the school, she starts to feel that he is not as bad as he first seemed, so when disaster strikes the school and she is told she is to judge if he is guilty she is surprised by what she feels.
She has to get to the bottom of what is happening and is told the boy is not what everyone thought he was.
I found this book interesting and would not mind following Bianca's story further if the author chooses to write more adventures for her.
In a world where inspiration seems to be copying someone else's ideas and imagination seems to be dwindling, this book can inspire one to look inside themselves. Bianca belongs to a long line of muses that can be traced back to one of the original nine muses. Because of her lineage she knows her forcus will be with the muse of history so her class for poise and charm seems useless to her. She has been told that if she doesn't pass that class that she will not graduate.
Bianca is told that if she helps a new transfer get caught up and manages to not be late again for poise and charm class that she would be able to earn enough extra credit to pass the class. The one issue is that the new student is a boy, which is rare for a muse, plus he has already insulted her. As she helps him to get settled into the school, she starts to feel that he is not as bad as he first seemed, so when disaster strikes the school and she is told she is to judge if he is guilty she is surprised by what she feels.
She has to get to the bottom of what is happening and is told the boy is not what everyone thought he was.
I found this book interesting and would not mind following Bianca's story further if the author chooses to write more adventures for her.
May 9, 2024
The School of Nine by Amanda Marin is a part of the Mythic Academy collection but can be read as a stand alone novella. This story follows Bianca as she embarks on a journey of self discovery, acceptance, and sacrifice. As graduation nears she is tasked with showing the new kid ( Sebastian) the ropes. She soon finds out that every one has secrets and that her gift may be just what’s needed to save them all. With the help of The nine she just might.
I really enjoyed this one. The characters are well developed, the plot is super engaging and there isn’t a lull. Right from the start you can tell there’s something about Bianca that is powerful and I don’t mean her actual powers. Although she doubts herself she has a strength that many wouldn’t have in her situation.
This is a story for young adults but can be enjoyable by anyone who likes fantasy stories. Its wholesome. Doesn’t take long to read. The story feels complete and I am not left with a million questions which is quite refreshing. I also noticed that both stories in this series have mythical references. I love mythology and am always intrigued by the way they are incorporated. 5 ⭐️ from me.
I really enjoyed this one. The characters are well developed, the plot is super engaging and there isn’t a lull. Right from the start you can tell there’s something about Bianca that is powerful and I don’t mean her actual powers. Although she doubts herself she has a strength that many wouldn’t have in her situation.
This is a story for young adults but can be enjoyable by anyone who likes fantasy stories. Its wholesome. Doesn’t take long to read. The story feels complete and I am not left with a million questions which is quite refreshing. I also noticed that both stories in this series have mythical references. I love mythology and am always intrigued by the way they are incorporated. 5 ⭐️ from me.
September 23, 2020
How exciting to find a story about Muses! The School of Nine tells the story of Bianca Harper and her time spent at Brightling Academy, a finishing school for Muses. Although not specifically an all girls school, strange events start happening when Sebastian Greenbriar comes to the school. To help her pass her failing class of Poise and Charm, Bianca agrees to show Sebastian around and help him settle in. As the story unfolds, sinister plots to eliminate the Muses arise and it's up the Bianca and Sebastian to try to stop it.
I really liked this story. My only draw back was how short it was. I loved having a story about Muses and I really enjoyed how they were portrayed. Bianca is likable character as well as Sebastian, and even looking at the cover you know there will be some romance between them. I felt like the ending was bit rushed (again being a shorter story will do that), but nonetheless I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more from Amanda Marin.
I received a review copy from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this story. My only draw back was how short it was. I loved having a story about Muses and I really enjoyed how they were portrayed. Bianca is likable character as well as Sebastian, and even looking at the cover you know there will be some romance between them. I felt like the ending was bit rushed (again being a shorter story will do that), but nonetheless I thoroughly enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more from Amanda Marin.
I received a review copy from Hidden Gems in exchange for an honest review.
May 13, 2024
The School of Nine was a perfect Novella for any YA reader. Bianca is a Muse in training that is attending Brightling Academy. She trips in Poise class one day to be met with Sebastian, the first male to attend the academy in decades, since Muses are typically female. Once Bianca and Sebastian realize that the signs are appearing signaling the end of the Muses power, they must do everything they to find a way to stop it from happening. I loved the premise of the story with a school full of muses to bring inspiration to ordinary human artists. They bring good things into the world and make the world a better place. The love interest is wholesome. Amanda Marin does an amazing job giving significant detail to the world even with a short number of pages. I look forward to reading A Song of Salt and Secrets next.
May 15, 2024
The School of Nine (Mythic Academy Collection)
By Amanda Marin
4 Stars
Bianca is a wonderful and curious girl who wants to inspire and do good. She’s excelling at all her classes except one, a prerequisite to graduating. Failing is not an option considering her family lineage. For extra credits, she agrees to mentor Sebastian. He slowly grows on her until she finds out that he’s not who he claims to be. An ancient prophecy is coming to pass and danger lurks around every corner. What is Bianca going to do when the power of the Muses is dying out?
This is a fantastic start to this collection. It’s short but full of romance and intrigue. I found the story unique and refreshing. I loved the connection to Greek mythology. The author is quite imaginative and I look forward to reading more from her.
By Amanda Marin
4 Stars
Bianca is a wonderful and curious girl who wants to inspire and do good. She’s excelling at all her classes except one, a prerequisite to graduating. Failing is not an option considering her family lineage. For extra credits, she agrees to mentor Sebastian. He slowly grows on her until she finds out that he’s not who he claims to be. An ancient prophecy is coming to pass and danger lurks around every corner. What is Bianca going to do when the power of the Muses is dying out?
This is a fantastic start to this collection. It’s short but full of romance and intrigue. I found the story unique and refreshing. I loved the connection to Greek mythology. The author is quite imaginative and I look forward to reading more from her.
May 16, 2024
I thought I would have a lesser experience due to my mistake of reading this book second, but I actually thought it was incredible that way! This author has quickly made her way to the top of my watch list because the way she writes is captivating. It only took a few pages for me to lose track of time and dive into the magical world right alongside our Muse, Bianca. I found the length of the story to be sublime as the author did an amazing job crafting a marvelous storyline as well as developing the characters to perfection. Just like A Song of Salt and Secrets, this includes a unique take on folklore that I hadn’t experienced anywhere else. I’ve already started searching out other books by this author because I cannot sing her praises enough. This was an incredible YA/Paranormal read, and I highly recommend picking it up and diving straight in!
May 6, 2024
"Nine muses. Nine signs. Nine chances to stop the darkness. Flunking out of Brightling Academy—a prestigious finishing school for Muses-in-training—isn’t an option for Bianca Harper. But if she doesn’t master Poise and Charm or stop tripping over her ballgown, failure is inevitable. Then he shows up: Sebastian Greenbriar, the first male student to walk through Brightling’s halls in decades. For extra credit, Bianca agrees to help him settle in—even though putting up with his self-absorbed attitude feels more like a punishment than a chance at redemption. But just as Bianca begins to make good, she discovers an even bigger problem lurking in the shadows. As foretold by ancients, the Well of Imagination—the force from which Muses draw their powers to inspire—is running dry, threatening the future of Muse-kind and the beauty they bring into the world. Sebastian’s connection to this danger is impossible to miss, but when he isn’t who or what he claims, can Bianca rely on him to help her stop the impending darkness?"
This is the first book in a 2 part series, really liked characters, the storyline flowed really well, kept my attention through the whole book. This book can be read as a stand alone. I give this book 4 stars.
This is the first book in a 2 part series, really liked characters, the storyline flowed really well, kept my attention through the whole book. This book can be read as a stand alone. I give this book 4 stars.
May 3, 2024
This book is a well written and interesting fantasy story that is about a school for muses. This isn’t something I have seen as a subject matter for a book before so it caught my attention right from the start. For me, this book was all about the characters. I connected with them instantly and wanted to know more about them and their story.
Overall, this is quite a short story and I think it would have definitely benefited from being a longer book. However, that did not detract from my enjoyment of the story and it definitely has me looking forward to book two. I cannot wait to see what is to come next.
Overall, this is quite a short story and I think it would have definitely benefited from being a longer book. However, that did not detract from my enjoyment of the story and it definitely has me looking forward to book two. I cannot wait to see what is to come next.
July 15, 2020
School of Nine was a quick, enjoyable read. You'll find yourself immersed in the world of Muses and there's never a dull moment. Bianca comes from a long line of muses and she's the last in her family who will have the honor of being a muse. However, as graduation looms on the horizon suddenly Bee's world is turned upside down and she will be tested in ways that she never expected. I recommend this for ages 13 and up.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Disclaimer: I received a free ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
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