The Alicorn Court

Hidden Legends: University of Sorcery #3

by Megan Linski

Soulmates battle against darkness.

Emma

There was a time I thought love would last forever, but that love has turned to shadow.

My friends and I are in a race against time to save the fae from a future of destruction. If we’re to survive, we must unite the six Crystals of Harmony. It’s rumored the next stone is hidden deep within the Alicorn Court-- a secret fae society that’s more myth than reality.

Transfixed by strange visions, Odette may know the location of the Alicorn Court. But if the court deems us unworthy, our mission to find them could be our last.

Ethan

A darkness has devoured me, making my very existence a fight for my soul.

Black magic is warring against the man I used to be. If I’m going to stop the demons in my head, I need Emma at my side. Otherwise, I’m doomed to a hell I won’t escape.

But my actions have pushed her love aside. There’s only one way to mend things between me and my true mate. If it doesn’t work, I’ll be doomed to live as a beast forever.

Genres: Audiobook, Fantasy, Magic, Romance, Paranormal, Young Adult, Witches

Unknown Binding

About the author

Megan Linski lives in Michigan. She is the author of more than fifty fantasy and paranormal novels which feature themes of friendship, community, and healthy romantic relationships. She has over fifteen years of experience writing books alongside working as a journalist and editor. She graduated from the University of Iowa, where she studied Creative Writing.

Her passions include ice skating and horseback riding. In her free time she enjoys dancing in the snow and drinking fancy coffee while at her natural habitat, the mall.

Megan advocates for the rights of the disabled, and is an activist for mental health awareness.

Megan co-writes the Hidden Legends Universe with Alicia Rades. She also writes under the pen name of Natalie Erin for the Creatures of the Lands series, co-authored by Krisen Lison.

Awards Megan has won include;

Best Fantasy Book of the Year 2019 by Once Upon a Book

Best Co-Authored Book of the Year 2022 by Once Upon a Book

Author of the Year 2022 by Once Upon a Book

Keynote Speaker at Once Upon a Book 2023

Best Book Friends (Ava and Kallie) 2023 by Once Upon a Book

Featured in the FOX Teen Choice Awards Gift Baskets

Two-time Reader's Favorite Five Star Read (Bronze Medal Finalist)

Winner of Amazon's Kindle Scout Competition

Reviews

[Katelyn Sarwi · Rating 3 out of 5]

A few thoughts…
-I think this series should be in the middle grade market. I’m sure it would do better there. Being in the new adult/ young adult category seems like a set up that will only lead in low purchase rates.
-It’s obviously written by someone very left leaning in politics (they don’t even try to disguise it), yet only when it benefits the protagonist, Emma. It screamed “white woman’s tears” from the very first page which is usually a very right wing trope. That’s confusing.
-Emma is one of the worst protagonists I’ve ever read (probably because I can’t get over the victim complex she has) and all of the side characters are awful friends. True enablers of her toxic mentality where she views the world as against her. The whole being mad at her mom for having to leave her child behind was ridiculous. That whole scenario was technically Emma’s fault. If I was Arthur I’d be mad at the World Weaver not his biological mother.
-All in all it was enjoyable but Emma’s selfishness was a bit too much for me.

[Bee Forbes-Wheeler · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart breaking, I haven't given a written review to a book in quite some time, but this one has made me do so.... it made me CRY not once but TWICE!!!! I have been mad soooo many times I've lost count. I have been happy. It is like a Romeo and Juliet love tail, and I'm struggling to read on... just when I feel happy and I can see what's happening in the plot, it does a big 180, and I am left feeling devastated. Never in my reading life have I felt so frustrated and heartbroken (but in a good way). I am going to move onto the next book reluctantly, but omg, I don't know if I'm ready for all these emotions again! Can I just mention that the everyday issues in the real world that the author brings to light just makes this series even better! Suicide, anorexia and much more....


Ethan and Emmaline
Odette and Theo
Delmare and Stefan
Alexei and Kiara

All these couples deserve happy endings STOP playing with me 😭

[Aragon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Decent series but it’s stretching out the plot a bit too much to get more story

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Note: I received this book from the author and I voluntarily give this review, it is my honest opinion.

Hidden Legends: University of Sorcery has quickly become a series that I just feel in love with and the series just keeps getting better. The third book, The Alicorn Court, was fantastic. I loved all the action and drama, the book held and kept my rapt attention from page one.

Everything about this book just captures my attention from the amazing world-building, the attention to the details, the wonderful characters. The entire story was just so cohesive and had excellent flow. There was so much angst, mysteries, and action, I was dying to find out what was gonna happen next.

Emma hasn't been apart of fae society for very long and yet she has faced so many trials, not just trying to save the fae but also dealing with backstabbing, attacks, royal politics, bullies and so much more. She does all this and cares about the weight of the entire fae race on her shoulders not to mention worrying about her mate, Ethan, all the time. Emma really has a lot and then add in her health concerns, dealing with all that while keeping sane she really is amazing. I love that she tries so hard and she takes a lot on but she isn't scared to call on her friends for help.

This book was emotionally painful but in a good way, I was highly entertained. Ethan and Emma's relationship was painfully throughout the entire book. I mean I want them together but at this point, things were just beyond difficult and at a certain point, it was just painful to watch. Ethan had a lot of changing to do in this book, he needed to take a look at what was going on around him, see how he was affecting things and make some very serious decisions. I always liked Ethan, he was a little rough around the edges, he had some trauma from his dad's death that deeply effected him but there may be hope for him yet.

Then there was Odette (my cinnamon roll who I must protect and who also had some of the funniest scenes) and Theo, gawd I just wanted to shake the two of them. Both so scared about the future that they are paralyzed in the present it's kinda ridiculous. I felt the frustration both of them had and it was one of those situations that just makes me want to scream because everyone can see it but the two people involved. As for Delmare and Stefan, those two were the happiest while Alexei and Kiara's relationship kinda fell away. I'm looking forward to seeing more about their relationship in the next book.

The series has always been great on the world-building, I loved getting more fae history and learning about their interactions with other supernaturals. Learning more about their religion and practices is very interesting and I love the detailed scenes when they have an event or festival it gives an even great look into their culture.

This book had a lot of real-world current issues reflected in it. There were policing issues, the pandemic that has swept the world was slightly mentioned, then there is the fae politics that so reminds me of the political situation that has taken place here, in America, over the past few years. Healthcare, military, protests, accountability, all of this Megan has somehow manage to incorporate into the story and it's quite impressive.

I will say that the story has taken a dark turn, not super dark or anything but just when I thought that maybe Elijah and Gabby have hit their limits at just being bad guys they up their game to a whole new level and I was truly astonished by some of the things that they did in this book. It was a character development that I really didn't see coming, I know they were bad but I didn't know they were gonna take it to this level. Also, I have a theory on who this baddie is the dark king, or whoever. I believe it's someone we have already met and when I think about it it's kinda obvious but I will have to wait and see.

The Alicorn Court was an excellent read that had me on an emotional rollercoaster and I loved it. The action and adventure, the heartbreak and romance, steamy scenes, terrifying monsters, crazy politics, fae history, great world-building, and few shocking plot twists that knocked my socks off. I warn the story ended on a cliffhanger and I can't wait to see what Emma and the gang will do next in The Griffin Court.

[Nancy (The Avid Reader) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma and crew are in a race against time to save the fae. To save the fae they must locate and unite six crystals. They have found the location of the next stone. It is located in the Alicorn Court. They will have to pass trials and solve the mystery of the Alicorn Court and the only one whom the court deems worthy will be able to find the crystal. Can Emma find the crystals? Can she find them in time to save the fae?

Ethan is dealing with demons inside his head. Demons that want to take him over forever. The demon wants to sever his soulmate bond with Emma. The demon is managing to push Emma further and further away making it appear that Ethan is the one pushing her away. Ethan does everything he can to keep everyone from finding out about his demons. To keep from losing himself to the demon Ethan needs to hold onto Emma and keep her close if he has any hope of getting rid of the demon. Will Ethan find a way to remove the demon? Or will he lose himself forever? Will he lose Emma forever?

The Alicorn Court pulled me in from the first page taking me away on a magical journey. The Alicorn Court is filled with action from beginning to end. The twists alone is enough to keep the pages turning as each one is revealed. The world-building is magical. I like that The Alicorn Court has more than one paranormal creature.

The characters are all so amazing. The Alicorn Court is filled with so many emotions it was like riding a roller coaster. One minute you may be laughing and the next minute you may be in need of tissue to wipe away the tears as they silently slide down your face leaving you aching for the characters. I can’t wait for more stories set in the University of Sorcery world.

I highly recommend The Alicorn Court to all fans of magic and fantasy. One-click your copy of The Alicorn Court to begin another magical journey in the University of Sorcery world.

[Katherine Paschal · Rating 5 out of 5]

**4.5 Stars**
Keep in mind this is a series that needs to be read in order for the world/drama to make sense and The Alicorn Court is the third in the series.

Well this was intense! I had no idea how this third book would compete with the shocks and heartbreak of the ending of the second book, The Dragon Oath, but somehow the author was able to keep me guessing what would happen next and still make me emotionally invested in the outcome of the upcoming war as well as the happiness of these people I have come to care about.

While the book has 2 main characters, Emma and Ethan, who are also the narrators, there are a lot of side characters that I feel I know just as well and completely root for- this is very much a found family story. In the last book I was worried about Stephen and Delmar and their chances at love which I adored seeing them so happy in this installment- even while the world and their friends' lives were imploding around them. This book put me (and Emma and Ethan) on an angsty emotional rollercoaster where I had no idea what the end outcome would be. Be advised, this is not a love story and if you want a HEA maybe look elsewhere.

And of course, the author is fantastic (and maybe a little bit evil) at creating the most surprising, heart wrenching ending ever- and this is a perfect example of that. I am counting down the days until the fourth book comes out and I can see what will come of every dramatic moment!

[Jay A. Aulds · Rating 5 out of 5]

Battle for Love, Identities, Trust, Empowerment, and Pride

Of course, Megan Linski an Alicia Rades had written another fantastic book to Hidden Legens series.
Emma fighting her disease and the royalty pressure. Strong character and bull-headed, perfect for a hard head man like Ethan.
She also battles her confusions on whether or not if she wants to be withher mate again after all of the lies and mistrust, but in the end... will she finally find another or will she confront her mate's demon?

Ethan, aka the Phantom.. I gotta say, he's one of my favorite vigilante and I've read through so many comics to have another favorites. His demon side keeps making his life horrible, but will he ever find a way to be at peace with his identity or will he succomb to his dark despair.

Woo! The Phantom and White Rose returns and conquer against evil! Can't wait to see more. Hope Eli and Gabby goes bye bye soon!

Can't wait for the next book to come out. Kudos to both of the authors of this wonderful series.

[Véronique Laplante Grenier · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Alicorn Court is the third book in the Fae Academy series by Megan Linksi. It was so good full of action, emotions, twist ...

Emma and the gang are looking for the Crystal of Harmony if they want to save the fae. The next one is supposed to be in the Alicorn Court but no one knows where it could be since the court is more a myth than a real thing. Odette is starting to have strange vision and one of them might lead them to the Alicorn court but only if they are worthy enough to enter. If not well they're mission is due to fail since they need all the six crystals and that includ the Alicorn one.

Ethan is now more doom then ever. The demon that resided inside him is winning and thats another race againts time to find a way to cure him and get that demon out. If he doens't then Ethan will be lost and the demon will be free to use his body to do wathever he wants starting by hurting his mate.

I have really love this book and can't wait for the fourth one. I have received an arc of this book from the author.

[Richard Goodrum · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fascinating paranormal & urban fantasy romance. As Ethan is dying from demon possession, he does everything he can to push Emma, his mate, away. But she isn't willing to give up on him. In addition, they must find the Crystals of Harmony before Elijah and Gabby, the evil couple on the thrones.

In some respects, this title shows significant growth for the primary relationships; however, it ends even worse than the previous one. With three more books in the series, how much further is it necessary to go into Elijah's and Gabby's depravity? Nevertheless, there are many forward-looking scenes and experiences to encounter that contain information likely to be significant along the way. Steamy scenes can be read or ignored as desired.

Action-packed. Entertaining. Haunting. Romantic. Scary. Tear-jerker. Tragic. Unpredictable. Whimsical. Witty. Wonderful characters.

I received a review copy of this book from a third party. This is my honest review.

[Ashley House · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart shattering!

This book wrecked me. I love the entire hidden legends world so much. I've read all of the books that are out in each series. This particular book is a beautiful disaster. I cried.. twice if I'm being honest. Then piece by piece the author knitted my broken heart back together, only to crush it again. It's books like this that are the best. They evoke genuine emotion. The author has brought real life struggles into a magical world. Eating disorders, autism, disabilities, and the characters handle them all with such grace. It gives hope to those that have these conditions in real life. It makes the story that much more connected to our souls. I will be on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book to release.

[Barbara Marie Warner · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Alicorn Court (Hidden Legends: University of Sorcery Book 3). ~~ This book emotionally destroyed me in the best way. Friendships deepen, alliances shift, and Ethan and Emma face choices that tore my heart right out. The twists in this one are brutal — absolutely brilliant and completely unpredictable.

Emma grows so much here — stronger, braver, wiser — and Ethan proves exactly why so many readers fall head-over-heels for him.

The Audible performance? Chills. Absolute chills. The emotional delivery made some scenes almost too much to handle but impossible to stop listening to.

I would definitely recommend this book and series and can’t wait to start on the next book. If you want to know what happens next, you’ll just have to read this series yourself — you won’t regret it.

[Hope Alex · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this is the 3rd book in the Hidden Legends: University of Sorcery Series so I practically can’t say anything but this one is just as great as the first two book. I still absolutely love these characters and the setting and everything about this series.

We are reaching the end of the series I believe, I’m pretty sure there is only 1 book left and that kinda saddens me because I love this series because of the characters, setting and overall this series deals with issues such as chronic illness, toxic relationships and eating disorders just to name a few things. This series manages to deal with many topics while still being fun and enjoyable.

So much I want to say that is spoilers but I laughed, cried and was shocked throughout this book and that’s what I love in books, when it gives me a physical reaction.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Alicorn Court is the third book in the University of Sorcery series. There is a lot going on during this book and things get intense! I LOVED it! The characters continue to grow as they are trying to save the Fae race by finding the stones and opening the door back to Edenmire. There were several twists and turns that I was not expecting! The new characters we met this book are great! And I love how the authors bring a lot of real world experiences in to her writing, from characters with disabilities to situations we see teens and young adults face, like eating disorders or verbally abusive relationships, and shows how they can over come all these obstacles.

[Simone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Audio review:
This is the third book in the Hidden Legends: University of Sorcery series. It has fast become a series that I enjoy immensely, and The Alicorn Court is no exception! I got pulled in from the first chapter, whisked away into this magical universe, and I loved every second of it! All the characters are amazing, the story filled with so many emotions that it felt like riding a crazy rollercoaster - but in the best possible way! And here I thought the ending of the second book was an exciting cliffhanger, but boy, it has nothing on this books ending.. Cannot wait to see what happens next!!!
*note* I received this audiobook for free in return for my honest review.

[Jessica Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh man oh man, is this book awesome. Lots of twists and turns. Magic and tons of secrets at almost every turn. The group of friends is back for a new semester in school. There's a lot of hubbub going on where to find things. But no ones found what they are suppose to yet. Then Ethan throws a huge wrench into the ring, along with everything else. Things maybe going a bit sideways, but Emma has this or does she? If you want to know the whole scoop you'll need to pull up a comfy chair or pillow, and settle down to read one wild unicorn ride of a book.

[Kira · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all the unique elements in this series from the vigilante storyline to the paranormal and fantasy. Emma and Ethan are both at a point where everything is pulling them apart. Ethan's demon is starting to win, and without Emma by his side, Ethan may lose the fight completely. On top of this, Emma and her friends are still trying to save the fae, a mission that could cost them everything. I was transfixed from page one and I cannot wait to continue this series in book 4! I am absolutely loving all of these stories within the Hidden Legends world!

[Sophie Koufes · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Alicorn Court: A Fae Academy Shifter Paranormal Romance (Hidden Legends: University of Sorcery Book 3) is beautifully written and designed. I absolutely love the hidden legend world and this book is perfect. Action packed, brimming with magic, myriad of secrets, unexpected twists and so much more. The writing style is captivating and the plot twists are spellbinding. Characters are compelling with complex characteristics. Everything flows from beginning to end. A bombshell cliffhanger leading onto book four. A must read ya paranormal romance series.

[Jennifer Lil'n Dunski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Fae! This story has all the feels! Emma, Ethan and the gang are searching for the Crystals Of Harmony to save all of the Fae.
Take this breathtaking journey into the Hidden Legends world as the story continues on in the 3rd book....where nothing is as it seems and the storyline and plot twists take you on a whirlwind of a story that is thrilling, riveting, sexy, heartbreaking and....get the tissues and wine ready! It's a crazy beautiful adventure!

[Aneesa Bhayat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing and most definitely heart pounding.

The plot thickens in this book and I’m not going to lie, to me this story was emotional and quite heavy. The writing is so good that you are completely drawn into the book. Wanted to slap some of the characters as the story took on twists and turns. I couldn’t read fast enough as all you want to do is turn the next page to find out what’s going to happen...
Be warned though, it ends with a cliff-hanger!

[Jackie Fornetti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ironically, amazingly relevant

First of all, super happy this came out early. I needed to read it.
Second, the parallels drawn between this book and our world right now? AMAZING. It was relatable and made me so interested in the plotline.
The plot was very well-paced, the character development was great - though the twin plotline was a bit rushed.
I can’t wait for the next book:)

[Constance Roberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audio. This was by far my favorite of the series I already love. The stakes are higher and everything moves so quickly I keep from getting bored. Usually with stories with a lot of characters I get a little lost, but I feel like I know them all individually. The ending was gruesome and heartbreaking, but in THE BEST WAY! I'm so excited that Griffin Knight is finally on audio so I can head straight into the next book.

[Cheryl.Kelloway · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been giggling, shocked, shouting at my phone and speechless at times. I love that the author is using this platform to educated people about certain disabilities and the struggles people face. Each book focuses on each pairs journeys as well as the main couple and their struggles and memorable moments. Each book ending with a cliffhanger and leaving you with the need to read the next book. Off I go to listen to the next book.

[Whitney Payne · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was okay and a bit predictable but hey I figured that much. I really liked the 1st one in the series so I have to finish out the series because I have a pretty good idea of how it’s gonna end I still need to find out. Only thing I didn’t like at all was that the narrator’s voice changed for Emma. And something about her voice just does not fit the character at all.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY MOTHER OF GODS!!! THIS SURPASSES EVERYTHING!!! SHE DID IT AGAIN!!! OMFG THIS BOOK KILLED ME!!! I ABSOLUTELY LOVE EVERYTHING!!! OUTSTANDING, PHENOMENAL, EPIC, EXCEPTIONALLY FANTASTIC!!!
THAT MASSACRE OMG I WAS SOO SCARED!!! AND TAT ENDING... OMFG I CAN'T
I NEED THE NEXT ONE RIGHT NOW!!!!

[Cleocutie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plenty of action, twists, emotion, and well done characters combine to make a fast paced book that keeps you interested.

[Spades DeLuca · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is giving me some major hope that Emma and Ethan will bring together all the groups, and I love love LOVE the idea of the witches joining forces with the Fae.

[Nadia O'Reilly]

Audiobook

[Stacy Stephenson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found myself more alloyed than enjoying all the characters

[Rebecca Gourd · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book series just keeps getting better and better!! Must read!

[Paige Schermerhorn · Rating 1 out of 5]

Really like the series even though Emma isn’t the best character. Worst book of the series honestly nothing like reading for 1-2 hours about children being slaughtered. Really made me sick to my stomach. The author went to far when they went into detail about that.