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The Academy Saga #2

Cadet-in-Training

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Kate’s destiny has been determined for her.

Hidden out in the country for most her life, Kate Connelly suddenly wakes up, handcuffed to a hospital bed, in the psyche ward of The Academy. Her crime? Being “gifted.” And it’s Officer “Ranger” Nealson’s job to make her adhere to The Academy’s agenda for her. Even though he’s the one who drugged and dragged her in.

Kate’s hate for Ranger, and his academy, is at an all-time high.

Ranger has his work cut out for him . . . and Kate does too. She has to fight through the rigors of the Cadet-in-Training program, and quickly. If not, she’ll lose the one privilege she’s been given at The Academy—access to her precious little brother. And until she graduates from the CIT program, Officer Nealson is banned from Missions.

When General Weston finally offers a juicy recon to Ranger, he wants to jump at the chance to prove himself again. After all, catching bad guys is his thing. Almost all pros for doing it. One con—Cadet Connelly has to ride along.

The hardened officer finds he’s slowly been growing a soft spot for his mentee. But he’s determined not to end up like his father, and former Elite Cadet Pete Davenport—throwing away their career for a girl (not even a woman). And Kate has lingering feelings for Pete, who risked his life to warn her, and conflicting feelings for Ranger. She has to set both aside to focus on completing her first mission.

When the dust settles, old alliances are broken and new ones are formed. But one thing remains the same: Kate’s destiny has been determined for her by The Academy. Ready or not . . . she’s set for Missions. Will one of the former elite cadets step in to help change her fate, or will she be left to fight the Academy’s agenda alone?

420 pages, Paperback

First published July 25, 2020

60 people are currently reading
146 people want to read

About the author

C.J. Daly

7 books184 followers
CJ Daly grew up on the scrabbly plains of Eastern New Mexico. When she was supposed to be helping her six siblings with chores on the family ranch, she was really sneaking behind dusty haystacks to read. And dreaming about becoming a writer.

After graduating high school, CJ moved to Big D (Dallas), where she quickly put herself through college while trying to rid herself of her country accent. She had better luck with college, graduating cum laude with a degree in English literature. After teaching a few years, and pausing to have back-to-back boys, she began writing in earnest.

A few years later, "The Academy Saga" was born. "The Academy" is her debut novel, and "The Academy, Cadet-in-Training" is the sequel.

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5 stars
154 (69%)
4 stars
45 (20%)
3 stars
16 (7%)
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5 (2%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
Profile Image for Dana.
879 reviews20 followers
March 22, 2021
CJ Daly does it again!! SO DAMN GOOD! That cliffhanger of an ending though. I am so excited book III is out in less than two weeks! Can't wait to find out what happens next ...

I can't say enough about how much I love this storyline, the characters, the writing. The plot is action packed and exciting. I loved getting a closer look into The Academy and an introduction to new characters.

Friends! If you're looking into reading this book (which I think you should!) make sure you grab book one first. This definitely can't be read as a stand alone as book one really sets the stage for book two. Plus it's excellent, so - read it :)

I still can't decide if I'm Team Pete or Team Ranger!! I've never been so torn...

HUGE thank you to CJ for sending me a copy of her book!
147 reviews2 followers
November 3, 2020
Kate Connelly is officially part of The Academy after she wakes up handcuffed in its psyche ward and Ranger is charged with training her. But how is she supposed to submit to the guy who dragged her and her little brother there against their will and perform for the academy she despises? The two have to work together though. Ranger is off of Missions until Kate graduates the CIT program, and if she does not do this swiftly, she will no longer be allowed to see Mikey. General Weston decides to give Ranger a new recon assignment, but only on the condition that Kate goes too. While on this mission, Ranger realizes that he has started to care for Kate, but he is determined that he won't fall onto the same path his father did. She seems to care for him as well, but she still harbors feelings for the missing Pete. All of this must be set aside, though, so they can focus on surviving their mission. The Academy has set her path for her. She will go to Missions, but will she be forced to deal with The Academy alone?

Keep in mind that everyone has their own opinion. This review is only my opinion, and you may have your own, different one. I would take into consideration what I say, but do not make a decision about the book solely based off of this review. Let's begin:

CJ Daly has done it again. I am rendered speechless after reading this second installment in The Academy Saga! Well sort of- I will somehow find enough words to write this review. Before I do that though, I will just say (*scream) that I need book 3 immediately. As in, right now, this very second, cannot wait any longer immediately. Just like with the first novel, everything is either perfect or so close near it that it hardly worth mentioning. The physical reactions were even more often and intense this time. Thankfully, I still didn't throw the book, but it did almost happen, but only maybe 10 times, so I consider that a win.

The characters were just as good if not better than they were in the first book. Ranger was definitely better, although I do still have mixed feelings about whether I like him or not. This has nothing to do with the writing at all- the writing was fantastic. It's more of a I don't know about his personality yet. I keep going back and forth on loving him because of some of the more toxic traits he has. However, his flaws help make him more real which makes me love the book even more. All of the characters feel like they could be real people- they are not too perfect or so evil that you can hardly think of them as human. Kate was once again fantastic and I think she is overall someone I would want to be like. I love all of her layers and deep feelings. Even with the limited amount of time we saw Pete, I still love his character so much. He apparently does not need a lot of page time to be loved. The same goes with Andrew. Just to calm any worries you may be having over this, Mikey stays just as adorable as ever.

The plot was absolutely amazing. I loved the transfer from the small town to The Academy and getting to know more about The Academy in general. This book had a ton of action, awkwardness, pain, love, and basically everything one would experience in real life. It was fast-paced and entrancing quite honestly. I found myself unable to resist picking it back up even if I only had a single minute to read. It pained me every time I had to pause to do something else (thank you very much to all of my classes for forcing me to stop- NOT!). The pacing was perfect, the twists were present, and perhaps most importantly the connection was formed.

The emotional rollercoaster that was the first book transformed into a full on hurricane. I experienced numerous emotions that were like sadness and anxiety (negative, but in a good way) then was able to calm down a bit during the eye of the storm just to be thrown into another twist and start feeling those oh my gosh, what just happened I'm not okay emotions again. I am also convinced that this author is the master of making you feel second-hand embarrassment.

There was only one minor negative again that caught my eye and it has nothing to do with the writing itself. It is the same teeny tiny negative from the first novel. Majority of the book is from the point of view of Kate, but there are a few chapters that switch to Ranger's or Pete's perspective, Ranger more often than Pete. However, there is nothing that blatantly lets you know about the switch. That said, it is extremely easy to figure out. I very highly doubt anyone would not understand what happened. However, it may have been nice to write the name of the guy it was switching to under the chapter title to signify the switch before reading.

The cover is really pretty and meaningful which I love, just like I did with the first book. I also definitely agree with the little bit the author of "The Last Train from Paris" said that is on the cover. The book is 100% binge-worthy!

Overall, this book was another smash hit that I cannot recommend with enough fervor. Hopefully, my love of this series has been evident in my reviews. I need everyone to read the books so that I have an endless supply of people to rave about them with! Pretty please help spread the word about this amazing series and author because both deserve so much praise!

Rating: 5/5 stars

Author: CJ Daly

Publisher: BrandyLight Ink

# of Pages: 429

Genre: YA, Romance

Series: The Academy Saga (Book 2)
211 reviews11 followers
July 28, 2020
Absolutely AHHHMAZING!

I woke up extra early to start reading and it was the best decision ever!! I am BLOWN away!! I absolutely love love love this book! Even better than the first! This is a ride you will now want to get off. The story was non stop and so enticing. The story and characters were so well written and life like that you actually felt like you were right there with them. I have been Team Ranger since the first book and needless to say I am done for after this one! This book was EVERYTHING and needs to be read by all!!
Profile Image for Shawn-Joy Martin.
1,006 reviews12 followers
August 5, 2020
Forget 5 stars...this is 10 stars at least!!!

This book has it all! I cannot believe we have to wait for more after that ending! So many thoughts and theories I have!

Team Pete / Team Ranger

Ugh!!! I don't want to choose!!! If I absolutely had to I think I would still be Team Pete...but also a little Team Ranger. 😬😅

Here is why:

I feel like Pete wants what is best for her in regards to living her own life. The Academy sucks you in and takes you over. You don't have choices and you do what they say or they'll basically ruin you. Ranger is still Team Academy and I saw flickers of that wavering but not enough to make me switch teams completely.


4% - WHY OH WHY do I have to adult today of all days?! I'm not far in but I already love it. Hurry up lunch time so I can get some more reading in!

8% - Finally work is over! Got a little reading done but now parental duties. Is it their bed time yet?

13% - There was a time in my life where I could sit down, start a book and then finish it. I miss those times. I was warned I might start liking Ranger and I can see it happening. I'm still not sure how I feel about it, I really do not want what Katie and Pete had to be nothing in the end. UGH! Must hide in the bathroom and read a lot today.

23% - I don't want to have to mark this for spoilers but I'm feeling so many emotions!

50% - That night out held so much promise. Why oh why is Ranger this way?! I want to feel bad for him but I'm too darn irritated by his destructive behavior.

58% - I have not given up! We just went camping for the weekend and there wasn't much time to read while walking each of 4 children in turn to the bathroom 7 billion times! I am STILL LOVING IT! I'm so anxious to see how this plays out, he can't think she will leave without her brother?! I mean he said as much...so WHAT IS THE FRIGGIN PLAN MAN?! haha I'll keep reading to find out. Side note: I don't actually mind that it is taking me a while to read it, prolongs the enjoyment and leaves less time to cry about having to wait for the next one.

71% - Not done reading for the day but so much has happened I need to record these feelings. I am still Team Pete but I absolutely appreciate Ranger and wish he would get his feelings together. To say I was crushed after that 2am stroll from confinement is an understatement. There were tears. This book is a rollercoaster and I am invested!

97% - THAT WAS INTENSE!!! I'm going to save the last little bit for morning. I'm just not ready for it to be over. Why did it take all the way to the end for Ranger to get his crap together?!

100% - My heart is racing! I cannot believe I have to wait for more!!
17 reviews1 follower
August 2, 2020
If you finished book l you know you need to get book ll!! So much changed, so many stories that took unexpected turns, you won't believe the things that are happening to Katie and you won't be able to predict how the book will end. I don't want to spoil anything so grab a copy, sit comfortably and see for yourself ;)
2 reviews1 follower
August 7, 2020
4.5***Some may think this includes spoilers* An exceptionally captivating sequel to The Academy. I really liked Katie and Ranger’s character developments and how Katie’s self-confidence grew throughout the book. Although I was sometimes frustrated by her “immature” actions/emotional episodes, I can’t blame her because I know I probably would have acted the same. Ranger’s moodiness was also quite annoying but necessary for the story line. I wish Pete and Katie’s family had been in the book more. I love Katie and Dr. D’s relationship and hope Katie will grow on Mr. Davenport. The ending surprised and confused me, so hopefully things will be cleared up in the next book. I enjoyed the chapters being from various people’s POVs and hope they are included in the next book(s) as well.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Debbie Briggs.
53 reviews7 followers
August 27, 2020
The most important thing that I can tell you is that you will be ready to read book three after finishing book two. However, in Cadet-In-Training, Kate didn't grow as a character for me as much as she did in the first book. I missed her spunk and sass that she normally has. Granted, she had been through more heartache than any teenager should go through. I was so glad to see her start to come back to herself near the end of the book though. This is why I'm ready for book 3. I've been left hanging. The plot development was amazing and left me hanging some more. I enjoyed meeting new characters and seeing some old characters again. Getting to know Ranger better was definitely needed and appreciated. Unfortunately, Pete didn't grow much for me as a character in this book. The two little brothers are actually my favorite men in Kate's life. I can't wait to see more of them.
1 review1 follower
August 7, 2020
I read The Academy last year and have been (im)patiently waiting for the second book to come out. I devoured this book whole...it is a masterpiece as much as the first book was. You know a book is amazing when it leaves you with a 'book hangover', you can't stop thinking about it, and you read it more than once. The Academy books are so well written and developed, you really feel like you know the characters and the world they live in. This series is in my top ten and I am shouting to the rooftops how amazing it is to anyone who will listen. I literally CANNOT wait for more books from CJ Daly and I hope she writes many MANY more. I am addicted.

I did receive an ARC of this book, however I had already pre-ordered and paid for the book before I was given the ARC opportunity.
Profile Image for Bailey.
5 reviews1 follower
August 24, 2020
Oh my gosh!!!! This book was so good. There was a so much emotion and action that I had to re-read it. I loved it the first time and inevitably fell in love again the second as I picked up the things I had missed. This series is definitely underrated and deserves more attention. I can’t wait to see the characters grow in future books(hopefully there are many more!) and am desperately waiting to find out what this last ending means. I have some ideas...maybe it was the quarantine boredom that left me obsessed with this masterpiece (as I do not usually fan girl) but this series is definitely special and worth the read:) thank you CJ Daly for writing this piece of joy!!!
17 reviews
August 2, 2020
I devoured this one!!! It might have been because I was waiting for it or, most probably, because I loved the first one and wanted to know how Katie's life was going to turn out on this one... I keep my opinion on the author, she really knows how to write a captivating story and she knows how to keep us reading and wanting more :) I recommend this book as much as I recommend the first one!
7 reviews1 follower
August 2, 2020
Wow! I can NOT believe how good this was! I read it in a day. Even better then the first one!! I am going to take awhile to process, but I'm internally screaming for book 3 already!
Profile Image for Michelle.
697 reviews13 followers
May 29, 2021
Update: I've changed my rating to 1 star.

After reading the most current book, the third, and having sat on my feelings regarding the authors storyline and the way she has been regarding this on social media, I've decided to no longer support this series or her work.

I can't lie and say this first book wasn't good. I devoured it and wanted more right now. Unfortunately, the author decided to play into the good guy vs bad boy love triangle trope. In the follow ups. This was originally YA and then turned into NA smut by the third with no character growth, but actually turning characters into trash.

We have Kate who turns into a simpering fool.

We have Pete who is an obsessed, possessive jerk.

We have Ranger...a rapist.

No I'm serious. She wrote a cruel rape scene and then plays the "he will redeem himself in the next book." She still plays up the team Ranger or team Pete in her posts and I watched her shut down a fan who brought up the problematic rape take. And I'm sorry but.

Let's not forget she also pretty much said Kate deserved the rape because she pushed him too far.

In 2021, we can't sit by and make excuses. Once the words no and stop have been uttered, even mid sex, it turns into rape when the male continues. Yet the author wrote a black and white scene. It wasn't even sex, she was asked to day something, said no she didn't want it and had Ranger plunge into a virgin written character angrily and forcefully. She cried and he kept it up. There's is no excuse or redemption arc and the tone thr author has kept up since writing this is beyond gross.

I've sat stewing over this since finishing the book in April. I didn't want to hurt the authors feelings but she clearly doesn't care about fans and the dangerous ideals she's putting into her younger readers heads. The works are problematic and so is the author.

Don't start this series because it'll only betray you.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
2 reviews
August 18, 2020
Fun read! will

Enjoyed the read and kept u going! However This second book is different from the first, more of Ranger than the last and Kate is a little too weepy. But I see a little where and why she reacts the way she does. ...Enjoyed the character development and got to peek into the Academy a little more. However could have done without all the foul language from Ranger that I didn’t feel was necessary and kind of made it hard for me not to want to skip. First book didn’t have that same feel. Though I do get the author was trying to let u see what kind of person he was but not sure it helped build his character for me much, tho he is appealing. Still Looking forward to the next adventure with Kate and seeing also how the love triangle plays out.
5 reviews1 follower
August 3, 2020
After impatiently waiting 8 long months for the release of the second novel, it is finally here!
I bought it as soon as I could and yet again CJ didn't disappointed me. She wrote a thrilling and addictive book that I couldn't put aside for ONE single second because everything was PERFECT.
The plot was amazing and each character had a proper and well-written development that kept me completely hooked during 2 whole days.
I 100% recommend this book to everyone and I can't wait for the third one!
Profile Image for Tiffany Fox.
4 reviews2 followers
August 19, 2020
I Couldn’t Put It Down!!!
After the cliff hanger book 1 ended on, I have been anxiously awaiting book 2....and it did not disappoint!! I stayed in all weekend and didn’t stop reading. I thought I was for sure team Pete but after reading book 2 I’m officially on team Ranger, their chemistry is undeniable and I cannot wait to see where this love triangle goes. This is by far the BEST book series I’ve read in years and I could see it on the big screen someday!! CJ Daly sure does know how to write a enthralling story that stays with you even after your done, I can’t wait for the next one!
18 reviews1 follower
September 12, 2020
Book 2 down - Excited for Book 3

This series has twists and turns that have me fighting with myself about what outcome I want. Read this in 3 days - I was hooked. A love triangle no one wants to talk about or admit to themselves. The fight between 2 rights, take the bad guy down or keep her safe and innocent. Really thoroughly enjoyable. Cant wait to see what Kaitie will go through next.. will she ever make it home, or even still want too?
4 reviews
August 3, 2020
A friend of mine recommend me The Academy Saga and I'm speechless on how good these books are, especially the second one!
I seriously loved the whole plot and how the events and the characters developed, without any doubt this novel will be my first re-read.
Also, CJ truly knows how to capture a reader with amazing and immersive dialogues that will make you want to know what's going on next.
3 reviews4 followers
February 10, 2021
A book you can’t wait to read and can’t put down!!
I have been anxiously awaiting this book for what feels like forever.. and it did not disappoint!! Such an incredible story and I loved getting to know the characters on a whole new lever #teamranger forever!! So happy there was a sequel to the first book, I highly recommend both books to anyone!
38 reviews
September 13, 2020
Fantastic

This is the second book in the series and it just keeps getting better! I love Katie-kat and her feisty attitude! The storyline had me constantly on the edge of my seat and the pages flew by. I cannot wait for the next book in the series. I am definitely team Pete! Sorry Ranger!
6 reviews
October 1, 2020
CJ Daly has done it again! You will not be able to put this book down!
Cadet-in-training is a fast-paced, brilliantly plotted, beautifully written novel with nearly constant suspense and intrigue! Throw in complex relationships, secrecy, and a little romance, and you have a novel I couldn't stop reading! I cannot wait for book#3!
5 reviews
August 3, 2020
Impressive, unbelievable, fantastic. Those would be the adjectives I'd use to describe the second book of this series if words were enough because they aren't!
I have no doubts that CJ will become a Best-seller author in a blink of an eye because she such a gorgeous writer.
Profile Image for B.
1 review1 follower
August 24, 2020
This is definitely my favorite series to disappear into!! It is so much fun to read! CJ Daly’s talent for writing both exciting and intriguing characters, as well as her skill for creating page-turning adventures is a gift!! 🌟📖❤️
Profile Image for Utshana.
93 reviews
December 9, 2020
So much better than the first one!!!!! I cannot believe that ending! I’m definitely team Ranger after reading that. Sorry Pete you just didn’t make the cut this time 😞 I cannot wait for the next book I’m dying to know what’s going to happen next!
4 reviews
August 5, 2020
A very enjoyable read

It is one of those books that makes you forget that you are reading I am hoping for another installment
6 reviews3 followers
August 12, 2020
Just obsessed with this series. Can't wait for the next one!
515 reviews5 followers
November 18, 2021
You thought book 1 was good? Book 2 is even better as the struggle of good vs evil reaches an all time high. Can't wait for book 3!
2 reviews
November 5, 2020
Absolutely amazing! Totally obsessed! Was Team Pete but now think I'm leaning towards Ranger more. Can't wait to see what happens next!
150 reviews7 followers
March 14, 2021
Book Review 📚


The Academy Saga -II

Cadet In Training

By : CJ Daly


Edition: Kindle

"Cadet In Training" is the second book in the Academy Saga Series . And I can't explain that how amazed I was after reading this masterpiece . The first book blew my mind off and this book succeded in doing that as well . I couldn't put it down .


In this sequel kate has been dragged in the Academy Agenda but the hatredness by Kate for the Ranger can be seen . She needs to fight to avail the benefit to have access to her little brother . The fight to complete the mission and to get out of the academy agenda is not easy for Kate . So go through this book to read the journey of kate and find out what happens with her ?


The story was really enticing and this book offered me the best roller coaster ride till date . The Unexpected twists and turns , aroused a great level of curiosity within me to know what will happen next . This made me to flip the pages even more faster .


If I start talking about the characters in the story , I really don't think that I can explain how much I loved reading about them . They are portrayed so well and they just blew my mind off . Kate managed to shine brightly this time as well and win my heart .

You guys need to riffle through both the parts and enjoy it .


Happy Reading 😊
Profile Image for Daniel Hicks.
6 reviews
August 3, 2020
I'm currently reading this book and loving it. The picture the author paints in my head is so crystal clear. I love it. The characters are well developed. The storyline is just reeling me in, hook, line, and sinker.
Profile Image for Whitney Arnett.
307 reviews4 followers
April 25, 2021
Another exciting read by CJ Daly. Book two in The Academy Series and it was just as good as the first. This will keep you on the edge of your seat.
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