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Montrose Paranormal Academy #1–5·5 omnibus
Montrose Paranormal Academy The COMPLETE Box Set
Welcome to Montrose Paranormal Academy— where the Three Societies rule all.
Hi, I’m Lucy. And I just found out I’m not normal... Three years ago, my brother went missing in Europe without a word. I just have to play nice with the Three Societies long enough to dig up some dirt. Before they figure out who I really am ... I must keep these three secrets to stay under the When two society student presidents fight for my attention, keeping my spotty supernatural talents to myself becomes infinitely more difficult.
Even though I’m drawn to the oh-so-dreamy captain of the Guardians, can I really trust him? He strictly adheres to the rules of the Guardians. Will he ever break his “good guy” code for me?
Big surprise — the charming, bad-boy president of the Nexis Society just won’t leave me alone. He seems to know about all the skeletons in my family’s closet. But has he figured out that I have hidden powers? And if so, who will he tell?
I didn’t bargain for this strange new world and my own crazy abilities. But I'm starting to wonder if maybe I am the Seer that all Three Societies all want on their side. Or want to exploit.
Can I find my brother and master my surprise powers without getting caught? I guess we’re about to find out ... Box Set Titles
Montrose Paranormal Academy is a 6-book Clean Academy YA Paranormal Romance series for young adults. It’s a saga full of slow-burn romance, snarky dialogue, supernatural shenanigans, and urban fantasy adventure set in New York City, Europe, and Asia. In the world of academy YA books, think Shadow Hunters meets Bloodline Academy with a dash of Darkblood Academy. ***Thousands of copies sold. Millions of pages read. 375+ five-star reviews for the series. Grab your copy of the Montrose Paranormal Academy box set for 99cents in this special bundle deal!***
Hi, I’m Lucy. And I just found out I’m not normal... Three years ago, my brother went missing in Europe without a word. I just have to play nice with the Three Societies long enough to dig up some dirt. Before they figure out who I really am ... I must keep these three secrets to stay under the When two society student presidents fight for my attention, keeping my spotty supernatural talents to myself becomes infinitely more difficult.
Even though I’m drawn to the oh-so-dreamy captain of the Guardians, can I really trust him? He strictly adheres to the rules of the Guardians. Will he ever break his “good guy” code for me?
Big surprise — the charming, bad-boy president of the Nexis Society just won’t leave me alone. He seems to know about all the skeletons in my family’s closet. But has he figured out that I have hidden powers? And if so, who will he tell?
I didn’t bargain for this strange new world and my own crazy abilities. But I'm starting to wonder if maybe I am the Seer that all Three Societies all want on their side. Or want to exploit.
Can I find my brother and master my surprise powers without getting caught? I guess we’re about to find out ... Box Set Titles
Montrose Paranormal Academy is a 6-book Clean Academy YA Paranormal Romance series for young adults. It’s a saga full of slow-burn romance, snarky dialogue, supernatural shenanigans, and urban fantasy adventure set in New York City, Europe, and Asia. In the world of academy YA books, think Shadow Hunters meets Bloodline Academy with a dash of Darkblood Academy. ***Thousands of copies sold. Millions of pages read. 375+ five-star reviews for the series. Grab your copy of the Montrose Paranormal Academy box set for 99cents in this special bundle deal!***
- GenresFantasy
1687 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 21, 2021
1933 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Hartzler
29 books78 followersBarbara Hartzler is an Urban Fantasy Academy author writing about Seers, Chosen Ones, sacred stones, and secret societies ... oh my!
Her stories are full of snarky heroines, supernatural shenanigans, dreamy guys, and normal teens taking on larger-than-life quests to save the world.
As a former barista and graphic designer, she loves all things sparkly and purple and is always jonesing for a good cup of joe.
So grab a cup of coffee and peruse her website at www.barbarahartzler.com. You can read her blog, explore all the behind-the-scenes extras in The Seer’s Vault, or learn more about her writing journey, fun facts, and The BARBARA awards for best fiction (mostly YA).
Or look for Barbara on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Goodreads.
Her stories are full of snarky heroines, supernatural shenanigans, dreamy guys, and normal teens taking on larger-than-life quests to save the world.
As a former barista and graphic designer, she loves all things sparkly and purple and is always jonesing for a good cup of joe.
So grab a cup of coffee and peruse her website at www.barbarahartzler.com. You can read her blog, explore all the behind-the-scenes extras in The Seer’s Vault, or learn more about her writing journey, fun facts, and The BARBARA awards for best fiction (mostly YA).
Or look for Barbara on Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, and Goodreads.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 29, 2023
Bad editing and continuity errors abound
I rarely don’t finish a book, or leave negative reviews, but I was so annoyed with the editing issues and continuity errors that I had to quit and write this. Also, in book 1, the FMC’s complete failure to even register that things could be supernatural in nature when she grew up knowing she was supernatural was completely unbelievable. She’s 16, not an idiot. How many times can you get lost in someone’s eyes and not be able to look away even if you tried and not think something might be hinky? Every time you see them? It’s jarring and it gives her a TSTL feeling in the first book for a lot of it.
Then she’s able to do something in the big show down scene and even talks about how she knows in book 1, and in book 2 she suddenly has never done it before and is awkward and clumsy at it when training. What? I can’t push through anymore. The story has potential, but it needs some major content and grammar edits to be palatable to read. I like the premise, it’s an interesting take on the hero’s journey/savior of the world tropes, but I just couldn’t muscle through all the issues.
I rarely don’t finish a book, or leave negative reviews, but I was so annoyed with the editing issues and continuity errors that I had to quit and write this. Also, in book 1, the FMC’s complete failure to even register that things could be supernatural in nature when she grew up knowing she was supernatural was completely unbelievable. She’s 16, not an idiot. How many times can you get lost in someone’s eyes and not be able to look away even if you tried and not think something might be hinky? Every time you see them? It’s jarring and it gives her a TSTL feeling in the first book for a lot of it.
Then she’s able to do something in the big show down scene and even talks about how she knows in book 1, and in book 2 she suddenly has never done it before and is awkward and clumsy at it when training. What? I can’t push through anymore. The story has potential, but it needs some major content and grammar edits to be palatable to read. I like the premise, it’s an interesting take on the hero’s journey/savior of the world tropes, but I just couldn’t muscle through all the issues.
May 26, 2022
Whilst I thoroughly enjoyed this box set, my enjoyment was cut short by the amount of blatant errors in the books. Are they even edited at all?? I love a hood YA genre read but I must only give 3 stars because of the LACK of editing. Hey if they want a cheap editor who can do the job, I’m here!! Lol
Seriously though, why are a lot of kindle books badly edited?? Or not edited at all even though authors thank their editors?!! It truly ruins the experience for me as my brain adjusts the errors but I shouldn’t have to when I’ve paid good money for a book. I treat my kindle books sale as if I bought an actual book 📖 with respect and the author should respect themselves enough to give their baby to an editor. Hence the lack of editing 3***
Seriously though, why are a lot of kindle books badly edited?? Or not edited at all even though authors thank their editors?!! It truly ruins the experience for me as my brain adjusts the errors but I shouldn’t have to when I’ve paid good money for a book. I treat my kindle books sale as if I bought an actual book 📖 with respect and the author should respect themselves enough to give their baby to an editor. Hence the lack of editing 3***
August 10, 2024
Terrific Read
What a wonderful young adult urban paranormal read.
The characters have plenty of depth, and the storyline runs smoothly and keeps you entertained all the way through.
Loved the pace of this story. It is full of action and deceit, romance, and mystery.
Loved the direction it takes, focusing on the younger teams and all they have to go through to not only win the fight but to survive it as well.
What a wonderful young adult urban paranormal read.
The characters have plenty of depth, and the storyline runs smoothly and keeps you entertained all the way through.
Loved the pace of this story. It is full of action and deceit, romance, and mystery.
Loved the direction it takes, focusing on the younger teams and all they have to go through to not only win the fight but to survive it as well.
April 22, 2024
Paranormal Misnomer
You read that right, misnomer. This is NOT your typical paranormal story with witches, vampires, fae, ghosts, etc. I was pleasantly surprised with the Biblical aspect. I love paranormal stories, but this series hit a little different and deeper. I'm looking forward to the follow-up series, Shadowstone Academy.
You read that right, misnomer. This is NOT your typical paranormal story with witches, vampires, fae, ghosts, etc. I was pleasantly surprised with the Biblical aspect. I love paranormal stories, but this series hit a little different and deeper. I'm looking forward to the follow-up series, Shadowstone Academy.
September 24, 2021
Great read for all ages
Loved the storyline and well developed characters. Relevant and thought provoking clean slow burn paranormal thriller that gripped me from the start
Loved the storyline and well developed characters. Relevant and thought provoking clean slow burn paranormal thriller that gripped me from the start
October 29, 2021
Boring I read 100 pages and had to stop
January 11, 2026
Montrose Paranormal Academy (Complete Series Box Set)
This completed box set was an immersive ride from start to finish, and reading the entire series together really shows how carefully the story was built. Starting with Book 0, the focus on James and his desperate need to protect his sister Lucy lays an emotional foundation that carries through the rest of the series. Knowing that his disappearance was an act of love and protection changes how every moment between them is understood later.
From Book 1 onward, the story shifts to Lucy as the main character, and her journey through Montrose Paranormal Academy is intense, dangerous, and emotionally charged. The academy is filled with secrets, hidden power, and constant threats, and Lucy is forced to grow quickly. Her relationship with Will, her boyfriend, adds emotional grounding in a world that never feels safe, while James’s reappearance and ongoing influence continue to shape her path.
As the series progresses, the stakes rise dramatically. The mythology surrounding the Nexus deepens, the world expands beyond Montrose, and the danger becomes global rather than contained. Each book builds naturally on the last — nothing feels forgotten or reset. Choices matter, consequences follow, and the emotional weight only grows heavier with each installment.
Books 3 through 5 take the series into darker territory, exploring fate, power, sacrifice, and loyalty. Lucy’s growth is steady and believable, and the relationships at the heart of the story remain central even as the plot becomes more complex. Book 5.5 was a great addition, offering clarity and perspective that made the overall story feel complete rather than rushed.
By the time I finished this box set, I felt fully satisfied with the journey. The character arcs were meaningful, the world-building was strong, and the emotional payoff was worth the time invested. I truly loved this series and how everything came together in the end.
I would definitely recommend this box set and the entire Montrose Paranormal Academy series. It’s well-written, emotionally engaging, and absolutely worth reading from beginning to end.
This completed box set was an immersive ride from start to finish, and reading the entire series together really shows how carefully the story was built. Starting with Book 0, the focus on James and his desperate need to protect his sister Lucy lays an emotional foundation that carries through the rest of the series. Knowing that his disappearance was an act of love and protection changes how every moment between them is understood later.
From Book 1 onward, the story shifts to Lucy as the main character, and her journey through Montrose Paranormal Academy is intense, dangerous, and emotionally charged. The academy is filled with secrets, hidden power, and constant threats, and Lucy is forced to grow quickly. Her relationship with Will, her boyfriend, adds emotional grounding in a world that never feels safe, while James’s reappearance and ongoing influence continue to shape her path.
As the series progresses, the stakes rise dramatically. The mythology surrounding the Nexus deepens, the world expands beyond Montrose, and the danger becomes global rather than contained. Each book builds naturally on the last — nothing feels forgotten or reset. Choices matter, consequences follow, and the emotional weight only grows heavier with each installment.
Books 3 through 5 take the series into darker territory, exploring fate, power, sacrifice, and loyalty. Lucy’s growth is steady and believable, and the relationships at the heart of the story remain central even as the plot becomes more complex. Book 5.5 was a great addition, offering clarity and perspective that made the overall story feel complete rather than rushed.
By the time I finished this box set, I felt fully satisfied with the journey. The character arcs were meaningful, the world-building was strong, and the emotional payoff was worth the time invested. I truly loved this series and how everything came together in the end.
I would definitely recommend this box set and the entire Montrose Paranormal Academy series. It’s well-written, emotionally engaging, and absolutely worth reading from beginning to end.
October 15, 2022
Classic struggle between good and evil that becomes more interesting as the series progresses
Take an ignorant, unaware teen who is thrust into a new, previously unknown to her, paranormal world and school where she has to learn to navigate her way while searching for answers about her family members … sound familiar?
The series improves with each consecutive novel until it becomes a page turner and a decent adventure. It starts off less than promising, though, with too much inner dialogue and exaggerated writing. However, it uses common tropes in teen literature (the love triangle, the school bullies, attraction to the bad or stoic boys, the secret societies, the parental pressure) that would make its world easily recognisable to readers of the Harry Potter, Mortal Instruments, Twilight and such series.
I would recommend readers to read the series from the start and as a series, not as standalone novels. Each following novel in the series builds on what has happened in the one before.
Take an ignorant, unaware teen who is thrust into a new, previously unknown to her, paranormal world and school where she has to learn to navigate her way while searching for answers about her family members … sound familiar?
The series improves with each consecutive novel until it becomes a page turner and a decent adventure. It starts off less than promising, though, with too much inner dialogue and exaggerated writing. However, it uses common tropes in teen literature (the love triangle, the school bullies, attraction to the bad or stoic boys, the secret societies, the parental pressure) that would make its world easily recognisable to readers of the Harry Potter, Mortal Instruments, Twilight and such series.
I would recommend readers to read the series from the start and as a series, not as standalone novels. Each following novel in the series builds on what has happened in the one before.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2023
Literally so boring.
I read 100 pages and was over the same repetitive questions or reiteration that her brother was missing in Europe or about the ex- boyfriend. Especially when no new information was presented, I am not hundred percent convinced missing bro is the entire plot but I have nothing else to work with either.
All the characters are a drag. Like yeah it’s just the beginning of the first book in the series but wow I don’t like any of them.
Not nearly enough information is presented on paranormal side to even make you want to learn more. 🤷♀️
A lot of work needs to be done to make this a semi interesting read. As it is I DNF 100 pages in and have literally forgotten the mc’s names 🤷♀️🤣.
I read 100 pages and was over the same repetitive questions or reiteration that her brother was missing in Europe or about the ex- boyfriend. Especially when no new information was presented, I am not hundred percent convinced missing bro is the entire plot but I have nothing else to work with either.
All the characters are a drag. Like yeah it’s just the beginning of the first book in the series but wow I don’t like any of them.
Not nearly enough information is presented on paranormal side to even make you want to learn more. 🤷♀️
A lot of work needs to be done to make this a semi interesting read. As it is I DNF 100 pages in and have literally forgotten the mc’s names 🤷♀️🤣.
June 3, 2024
Lucy has inherited supernatural powers that make her the Seer. She lost her brother 3 years ago and plans to use her powers to find him. She is sent to Montreal Academy and is told to pledge all three secret societies the Guardians, the Watchers and Nexis. Along the way she picks up a few enemies. Just the kind of enemies that want world domination of the demonic variety, namely Nexis. She also finds the Interpreter and Messenger to either help or hurt her. Sometimes both. God didn’t forsake Lucy. He sent an Angel to guide and assist in what would eventually become the Nexis Ruby War. Can she destroy the rubies and free mankind? Save the world. For a few days anyway.
July 13, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed these books. The world is so much like our own but with such a simple twist that you can’t believe it isn’t true!
You are with the characters the whole way and they really have such an amazing development when you really get to the nitty gritty.
The final book I read the majority of on the train back from Pembroke Dock. It completely sucked me in.
I have also read the pre book snippet to this series and the books that come afterwards too. They are equally amazing and compelling!!
You are with the characters the whole way and they really have such an amazing development when you really get to the nitty gritty.
The final book I read the majority of on the train back from Pembroke Dock. It completely sucked me in.
I have also read the pre book snippet to this series and the books that come afterwards too. They are equally amazing and compelling!!
April 14, 2024
Pretty good
Montrose Paranormal Academy Complete Box Set by Barbara Hartzler: 4 stars
This series is entertaining, but has a lot of repetitive scenarios. The characters are mostly likable, but deal with some tough losses. The seer army is a fraction the size of the Nexis army, but an alliance with the Watchers changes that and allows a major win. I was honestly glad to finish this box set, and don’t plan to continue the series (which takes a bit of a turn but promises more of the same).
—PTators
Montrose Paranormal Academy Complete Box Set by Barbara Hartzler: 4 stars
This series is entertaining, but has a lot of repetitive scenarios. The characters are mostly likable, but deal with some tough losses. The seer army is a fraction the size of the Nexis army, but an alliance with the Watchers changes that and allows a major win. I was honestly glad to finish this box set, and don’t plan to continue the series (which takes a bit of a turn but promises more of the same).
—PTators
June 5, 2023
Mild spoilers
It was so boring I DNFed. The FMC has so many questions and does not ask any of the people who seem to know everything about her when she doesn't. Her mother seems to be a first class bitch, but the FMC and her father just accept it.
I constantly thought I fell asleep or missed pages because everything seems to be fast forwarded.
I liked none of the MC.
It was so boring I DNFed. The FMC has so many questions and does not ask any of the people who seem to know everything about her when she doesn't. Her mother seems to be a first class bitch, but the FMC and her father just accept it.
I constantly thought I fell asleep or missed pages because everything seems to be fast forwarded.
I liked none of the MC.
August 28, 2023
Fantastic series
This series pulled me away from on line game. The author tells a story that flows so smoothly you forget your reading it. She make you feel like you are there. The characters are intriguing. These books have great editing.I would recommend it with flying colors. I look forward to reading more of your work.
This series pulled me away from on line game. The author tells a story that flows so smoothly you forget your reading it. She make you feel like you are there. The characters are intriguing. These books have great editing.I would recommend it with flying colors. I look forward to reading more of your work.
June 15, 2024
I read the first book in this set and started the second one and then just stopped. I couldn’t force myself to go further. The dialogue sometimes made no sense. The whole thing was long winded. I lost interest. On the plus side, I applaud anyone with imagination and the grit to write! Keep on writing!
January 30, 2025
great story
I loved the characters and story line. The book itself could use some strong editing. Several times in the book things were mentioned multiple times and each time it was like it was new information. Also, several times some major character traits were stated and then a few chapters later it was totally different .
I loved the characters and story line. The book itself could use some strong editing. Several times in the book things were mentioned multiple times and each time it was like it was new information. Also, several times some major character traits were stated and then a few chapters later it was totally different .
August 11, 2023
I really wanted to kick back and enjoy this series. I unfortunately couldn't get through the first chapter. The story just kept jumping all over the place and did not flow. I do not like that my first review is negative.
February 15, 2024
Great Books
I loved reading these books. I laughed, cried, and got angry. They were so fun to read I couldn't put then down once I started the series. I read till the end and then was sad that it was over.
I loved reading these books. I laughed, cried, and got angry. They were so fun to read I couldn't put then down once I started the series. I read till the end and then was sad that it was over.
November 23, 2024
Good story
I liked the story a lot, but you could use an editor. There were a lot of grammar and spelling issues. Not counting the inconsistent name of the school Paige is sent to...overall, good book set.
I liked the story a lot, but you could use an editor. There were a lot of grammar and spelling issues. Not counting the inconsistent name of the school Paige is sent to...overall, good book set.
October 20, 2021
WOW
What a great story . Not to much romance as with allot of coming of age books but just enough. With a really refreshing story line of light versus dark
What a great story . Not to much romance as with allot of coming of age books but just enough. With a really refreshing story line of light versus dark
November 11, 2021
Good read.
Very suitable for Young Adults,lots of action mystery and Adventures to keep them reading. Strong characters and interesting locations very well described.
Very suitable for Young Adults,lots of action mystery and Adventures to keep them reading. Strong characters and interesting locations very well described.
February 2, 2022
Loved It!
Such a riveting tale. It was hard to put it down. I got so engrossed in the story that I actually felt like I was apart of the story.
Such a riveting tale. It was hard to put it down. I got so engrossed in the story that I actually felt like I was apart of the story.
May 28, 2022
A Really Good Story
The story was very good and got you involved in the story of overcoming evil and saving the world from demons
The story was very good and got you involved in the story of overcoming evil and saving the world from demons
July 12, 2022
Great
This was a truly great series. I loved the Characters I got invest in them Lucy is my favorite watch her grow and over come so much.
This was a truly great series. I loved the Characters I got invest in them Lucy is my favorite watch her grow and over come so much.
November 8, 2022
Cool
This is a super fun series to read. There are many adventures, tons of baddies, and plenty of danger. The characters are wonderful too. I just loved it.
This is a super fun series to read. There are many adventures, tons of baddies, and plenty of danger. The characters are wonderful too. I just loved it.
dnf
August 28, 2023DNF 7%
February 24, 2024
Great story, funny at times. Carries over from book to book very well.
August 14, 2024
Great series
Has all the things I look for in a series. Action, interesting and believable characters, a story that ties it all together. I am following Hartzler for more stories.
Has all the things I look for in a series. Action, interesting and believable characters, a story that ties it all together. I am following Hartzler for more stories.
October 4, 2024
worth the read
Enjoyed the good vs evil. Great fantasy for YA. Grammar was decent. Wholesome. Teamwork, respect for adults. Looking forward to the next set.
Enjoyed the good vs evil. Great fantasy for YA. Grammar was decent. Wholesome. Teamwork, respect for adults. Looking forward to the next set.
May 25, 2023
Way too long. Same thing throughout. Just running, crying and ruby hunting which could have been solidified into 3 books. Storyline was good thou, just too look long
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews