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Dusk Wall Academy #1
Amber and Shadow
The first book in an enemies to lovers, paranormal—No. Stop.
I’m not sorry. Cut the blurb, I need to vent.
Sylas.
Mate.
You. Absolute. Prat.
You remember what we had to sacrifice to get to this godforsaken academy, right? All for you, I might add. And while I downed that potion to qualify—the one with fifty percent chance of killing me—what were you doing?
That’s right. Opening your bleeding heart to a random woman and accidentally binding her to your magic. (You know, that minorly important thing your 'condition' requires for survival?)
And that—that’s not even the kicker, is it?
You should be popular with the ladies—you have that whole ‘strongest-vamp-in-academy-history’ thing going, right? But congratulations, you found the one exception, because Briar Bishop hates you.
To add to everything, she’s untrained (and insane). Come the trial, demons are going to eat her alive, and she’ll take your magic with her—magic she’s now burning through, it seems, just to spite you.
And who is the one left to clean up this mess?
Right.
Me.
Where are my matches? I need a bloody smoke.
…
…
*ahem.* The Witcher meets Zodiac Academy in a slow burn four book romance. Broody vamps and shifters. Enemies to lovers. Monsters and magic. Check. Check. Check. You know, all the good stuff. Go buy it.
Or Axel will find you. And he’s in a bad mood.
I’m not sorry. Cut the blurb, I need to vent.
Sylas.
Mate.
You. Absolute. Prat.
You remember what we had to sacrifice to get to this godforsaken academy, right? All for you, I might add. And while I downed that potion to qualify—the one with fifty percent chance of killing me—what were you doing?
That’s right. Opening your bleeding heart to a random woman and accidentally binding her to your magic. (You know, that minorly important thing your 'condition' requires for survival?)
And that—that’s not even the kicker, is it?
You should be popular with the ladies—you have that whole ‘strongest-vamp-in-academy-history’ thing going, right? But congratulations, you found the one exception, because Briar Bishop hates you.
To add to everything, she’s untrained (and insane). Come the trial, demons are going to eat her alive, and she’ll take your magic with her—magic she’s now burning through, it seems, just to spite you.
And who is the one left to clean up this mess?
Right.
Me.
Where are my matches? I need a bloody smoke.
…
…
*ahem.* The Witcher meets Zodiac Academy in a slow burn four book romance. Broody vamps and shifters. Enemies to lovers. Monsters and magic. Check. Check. Check. You know, all the good stuff. Go buy it.
Or Axel will find you. And he’s in a bad mood.
356 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2022
333 people are currently reading
1147 people want to read
About the author
Marie Mackay
24 books770 followersA British-Canadian writer, artist, and ex nurse currently living in BC, Canada. All the art-from the cover, to the illustrations within the pages-are her own.
I'm a self-proclaimed angst queen, and I write omegaverse and fantasy romance, most often with many lovers per lady. I have a strong preference toward enemies to lovers, bully, and dark romance.
The voices I bring to the paper draw from the distinct social settings in which I have lived, the many places I have travelled, and from my time in health care.
I maintain a commitment not to write pregnancy in my books (including epilogues). While I have nothing against the beauty of babies, my leading ladies find HEAs outside of children <3
I'm a self-proclaimed angst queen, and I write omegaverse and fantasy romance, most often with many lovers per lady. I have a strong preference toward enemies to lovers, bully, and dark romance.
The voices I bring to the paper draw from the distinct social settings in which I have lived, the many places I have travelled, and from my time in health care.
I maintain a commitment not to write pregnancy in my books (including epilogues). While I have nothing against the beauty of babies, my leading ladies find HEAs outside of children <3
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
October 16, 2022
1. Enemies to lovers is not fun when all of the men are rapey and abusive. They are not redeemable just because they have trauma.
2. The FMC is SO annoying?? I couldn't even root for her like?? There were no likeable characters.
3. So many scenes were just flat out confusing. The way these characters interacted was so odd.
2. The FMC is SO annoying?? I couldn't even root for her like?? There were no likeable characters.
3. So many scenes were just flat out confusing. The way these characters interacted was so odd.
April 20, 2023
The writing was so weird and confusing my god!
April 28, 2022
*Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
4/5⭐️
1/5🌶 Spice was fairly light, however we were advised in the beginning blurb that this is a slow burn and to expect much more in the second + books !
Currently writing this review at 1:30am on a Sunday night, finishing this took priority over getting enough sleep before getting up at 6am for work.
This was amazing!!! I started off not liking Axel at all and hesitant about Sylas which I’m sure was intended but oh my gosh 😭 only on book 1 of 4 and they are already shaping up to be some of my favourite characters I’ve read this year. The last few chapters my love and appreciation for both men was growing astronomically and by the end of the last chapter my heart was breaking for Sylas with a twist I did not see coming
Briar is shaping up to be a kick ass FMC, I’m really excited to see how she develops in the coming books.
I had a hard time remembering the names of all the different demons, they did have little blurbs throughout the book but I think having a little legend or brief description at the beginning with the map of Vostra would be a nice feature for readers to go back to when trying to familiarize themselves with the characters.
Overall I absolutely loved this, fingers crossed the following books in the series come quickly because I need more Axel in my life!
4/5⭐️
1/5🌶 Spice was fairly light, however we were advised in the beginning blurb that this is a slow burn and to expect much more in the second + books !
Currently writing this review at 1:30am on a Sunday night, finishing this took priority over getting enough sleep before getting up at 6am for work.
This was amazing!!! I started off not liking Axel at all and hesitant about Sylas which I’m sure was intended but oh my gosh 😭 only on book 1 of 4 and they are already shaping up to be some of my favourite characters I’ve read this year. The last few chapters my love and appreciation for both men was growing astronomically and by the end of the last chapter my heart was breaking for Sylas with a twist I did not see coming
Briar is shaping up to be a kick ass FMC, I’m really excited to see how she develops in the coming books.
I had a hard time remembering the names of all the different demons, they did have little blurbs throughout the book but I think having a little legend or brief description at the beginning with the map of Vostra would be a nice feature for readers to go back to when trying to familiarize themselves with the characters.
Overall I absolutely loved this, fingers crossed the following books in the series come quickly because I need more Axel in my life!
May 13, 2022
The world was too confusing for me, and I disliked all characters but briar. I love surprises in the plot but some of the surprises seemed extremely random and convenient for the plot. It felt less like a story and more like a collection of scenes forced together.
Somewhere in there is an wonderful world and amazing story. Unfortunately it's all hidden behind vague descriptions of 'what happened to my dad was awful so I hate lady xyz." And a random story of some be est friend she somehow betrayed which may or may not have had something to do with her father's death.
If this story ever gets professionally edited I'd be interested to read it again and render another opinion.
Somewhere in there is an wonderful world and amazing story. Unfortunately it's all hidden behind vague descriptions of 'what happened to my dad was awful so I hate lady xyz." And a random story of some be est friend she somehow betrayed which may or may not have had something to do with her father's death.
If this story ever gets professionally edited I'd be interested to read it again and render another opinion.
November 4, 2022
For this book the blurb convinced me because I liked how it boldly broke the fourth wall (I am not a fan of breaking the fourth wall, but in this case seemed cool).
Anyways, the book was a bit weird, not in that sexy cool way.
He reached up, fingers splaying along her cheeks, and she couldn’t stop the hitch in her breathing as he renewed his touch. “Is that what makes me sick?” he asked.
All I have to say about the romantic part is that that relationship was too toxic even for a YA.
April 22, 2022
**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
I absolutely loved this book! There were a few times where I was confused with the demons, but I’m sure it will be easier to keep track of and organize once the second book comes out.
I heard about it on tiktok and immediately wanted to dive into the world, and it did not disappoint!! I’m so excited to see where the second book takes us :)
I absolutely loved this book! There were a few times where I was confused with the demons, but I’m sure it will be easier to keep track of and organize once the second book comes out.
I heard about it on tiktok and immediately wanted to dive into the world, and it did not disappoint!! I’m so excited to see where the second book takes us :)
April 29, 2022
I had and ARC copy. This is a really good book! Held my attention and considering I DNF a lot of books that’s saying something. Learning the world was built Into the book in an interesting way. There’s a key at the end that’s helpful. It had great character development. I’m excited to see what happens next with the MCs, but it thankfully didn’t end on too much of a cliff hanger.
April 30, 2022
I received a free ARC for this book.
The storyline really jumps straight into things, letting the world build around you and gaps to fill as the book progresses.
The characters are each unique in their own way and intriguing.
Sets a good foundation for the rest of the series.
All in all I really enjoyed it.
The storyline really jumps straight into things, letting the world build around you and gaps to fill as the book progresses.
The characters are each unique in their own way and intriguing.
Sets a good foundation for the rest of the series.
All in all I really enjoyed it.
July 11, 2022
Shockingly Good
Wow, am I surprised by this story I stumbled across. Extremely interesting characters and intricate world building. The story is well written. There’s so much to it, that it can be confusing. However, I love a writer who isn’t afraid to challenge their readers by letting them figure out what’s going on as the story progresses.
Wow, am I surprised by this story I stumbled across. Extremely interesting characters and intricate world building. The story is well written. There’s so much to it, that it can be confusing. However, I love a writer who isn’t afraid to challenge their readers by letting them figure out what’s going on as the story progresses.
August 21, 2022
This book was horrible, the world building was so complicated, but not in a good way. This book would have been so much better if the author omitted some things. It dragged instead of getting to the point.
did-not-finish
November 9, 2024DNF at 2%. I'm so confused. I have no idea what's going on.
April 22, 2022
I got an ARC copy of this and can I just say I couldn't put it down! The bullying, the betrayal, the emotion ugh. When I say I'm sad I have to wait until the next book thats a huge understatement. Definit cliffhanger has just leaves you wanting more. I can't wait to see where this story takes us!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Listened to the audiobook narrated by BJ Harrison. The narration was good, but one of the characters, Axel, was repeatedly called Alex and Alec which was confusing at times. However, the voice quality was great.
This is the first book in a series set in a magical school which has really been over-written at this point, yet the author managed to make it unique. The characters are all full of secrets so you have to pay attention for any hints as to underlying motivations. This continues until the very end so you’re never bored. The author did a good job in this area. I liked the characters, even the unlikable ones. They weren’t as fleshed out as they could be, but considering the secrecy nature throughout they were as fleshed out as they could be.
I do wish the magic and world building was stronger, but I expect this to improve in the rest of the series (there’s a total of 4 books).
This has enough of my interest that I’d recommend it to others and I plan to continue with the series in the future. It seems the author has so far only uploaded this first book.
Listened to the audiobook narrated by BJ Harrison. The narration was good, but one of the characters, Axel, was repeatedly called Alex and Alec which was confusing at times. However, the voice quality was great.
This is the first book in a series set in a magical school which has really been over-written at this point, yet the author managed to make it unique. The characters are all full of secrets so you have to pay attention for any hints as to underlying motivations. This continues until the very end so you’re never bored. The author did a good job in this area. I liked the characters, even the unlikable ones. They weren’t as fleshed out as they could be, but considering the secrecy nature throughout they were as fleshed out as they could be.
I do wish the magic and world building was stronger, but I expect this to improve in the rest of the series (there’s a total of 4 books).
This has enough of my interest that I’d recommend it to others and I plan to continue with the series in the future. It seems the author has so far only uploaded this first book.
December 6, 2022
For once, I may have an unpopular opinion, but I'm going to give this book 5 Stars. I jumped into this book not reading the blurb or paying attention to the genre - I just needed a book to read, and the cover was neat… so understand that I went into this with zero ideas of what to expect from this book.
And I loved it.
It wasn't perfect by any means; Axel was a terrible, predatory person. Sylas was closed off and secretive. Briar was annoyingly bratty at times. Together, the whole group of characters was full of needless drama that they mostly could have avoided if they'd just been open and honest with each other. The romance was incredibly understated, and honestly, I'm still not sure who I'm cheering for. There were times when I questioned why a bunch of men and women in their 20s were stuck wearing Hogwarts-like uniforms and so caught up in tenuous romances, friendships, and bullying.
But on the other hand, the worldbuilding was so fresh and intricate. The writing was engaging and easy to follow. The characters had depth and dark, unpleasant aspects to their personalities that added a lot of grit to what could have easily been just another teen drama story. The demons were creepy as heck.
In the end, I don't care what went wrong with this book, because the good outshone the bad. I loved the story, and I can't wait to read more of this series. It was such a surprising gem to stumble upon.
And I loved it.
It wasn't perfect by any means; Axel was a terrible, predatory person. Sylas was closed off and secretive. Briar was annoyingly bratty at times. Together, the whole group of characters was full of needless drama that they mostly could have avoided if they'd just been open and honest with each other. The romance was incredibly understated, and honestly, I'm still not sure who I'm cheering for. There were times when I questioned why a bunch of men and women in their 20s were stuck wearing Hogwarts-like uniforms and so caught up in tenuous romances, friendships, and bullying.
But on the other hand, the worldbuilding was so fresh and intricate. The writing was engaging and easy to follow. The characters had depth and dark, unpleasant aspects to their personalities that added a lot of grit to what could have easily been just another teen drama story. The demons were creepy as heck.
In the end, I don't care what went wrong with this book, because the good outshone the bad. I loved the story, and I can't wait to read more of this series. It was such a surprising gem to stumble upon.
September 5, 2022
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
This book was really good. I never liked books of this genre before, but I totally fell in love with this one and I'm glad I tried it.
The story line is great and I really like the characters, especially Axel and Sylas.
Definitely can't wait for the next book to be released!
This book was really good. I never liked books of this genre before, but I totally fell in love with this one and I'm glad I tried it.
The story line is great and I really like the characters, especially Axel and Sylas.
Definitely can't wait for the next book to be released!
August 30, 2022
The Story:
Someone mentioned this title on Facebook. Otherwise, I might not have known about this. The title is not inspiring. The story is.
• Dark academy romance
• Bullying and backstabbing
• Slow burn
• Fade-to-black
• Monster romance
• Demons
• Multiple POV
• Longer story
Only the desperate attend this academy. If you live past the entrance exam, your every waking moment involves training to be a soldier battling demons escaping from the Dusk Gate. To do so, you have to kill a demon in the final exam. Yikes! Briar is not the main character per se; everything revolves around her. She should not have lived. Only through a momentary wish from Sylas does she manage to live, but the magic she manifests is healing, which is not respected. Healers cannot kill demons. While there are 5 different aspects of magic, hers is limited.
However, Sylas accidentally bonded himself to her and needs her blood to stay sane. His best friend Axel becomes Sylas’s enforcing arm, so to speak, and they become a Terrible Triangle of hate and duty. That is complicated enough, but then Greyson visits. Due to his past he has every desire to interfere but surprisingly finds himself falling for Briar. Then there is a tribal group led by a cruel guy named Locke. He orders his group to bully her but she doesn’t back down.
The story was so good I immediately shelved any idea to start another story and totally absorbed myself beyond normal sleep time for days. Normally I get moody and start another book on the side, but noooooo. I am so glad I read this. It’s deep. It’s complex. There are a few answers, but the major questions are still unresolved. Aargh!
The Romance:
First, the main character, Briar: I can sum her up in two words: sour. Pus. Briar came to this academy because taking a poison was better than what she was running from. On the one hand, I admire all the extra work she does to succeed. I admire her self-reliance. On the other hand, she lashes out at everyone and her emotional answer to the slightest setback is hatred. She never thanks anyone’s kind deed.
I don’t like her as much as I want to.
There are 3 men in Briar’s life, and boy do they have some depth:
1. Grayson, who is not the typical alpha male. At first he seems like the sweet next-door neighbor you never knew you had.
2. Sylas: the Noble she accidentally bonded with at the first trial.
3. Axel: the dark villain who actually is my favorite of the three. He does everything for his noble friend, and he must LOVE the Noble to sacrifice so much.
“You over apologise with stuff like that, like you’re worried I’m going to blow up on you.”
Grayson not the best match for Briar. He calls her Queen and acts less like a partner and more like a child. While the romance is sweet it seems doomed. Fade to black. Plus, he has some serious hate-issues with Axel that interfere with his decisions.
Briar, however, is no innocent. Her hatred leads her to spurn Grayson just when he needs her the most, and it leads to deadly mistakes.
Axel is the person I almost swoon over. Despite invading Briar’s personal space and threatening her, Axel sacrifices so much during the story I start to wonder where he is coming from. Is it a bromance? Is he so moral that his twisted methods actually have a pious root inside? OMG, he keeps me guessing and I love it.
Sylas:
Briar has a past that involved a monster and nobles. I am still confused and guessing about her past (and loving it), but her attitude towards the unwanted bond with a Noble is typical: “You demand it when it’s not owed to you and jump straight to bullying it out of me…” Yes, this bond is like a Fated Mate bond. They both get feelings for each other even when Briar is dating Grayson. Awkward! But really, he is a nice guy, if you overlook his murderous demon 😕.
Other characters:
I don’t want to give things away, but occasionally an unsigned letter would show up, and I was confused as to who wrote it. The letters were a prelude to a plot twist I never saw coming! And a character who was minor turned into a surprise!
The World:
There are a number of demons, and these are manifestations of strong moral emotions like sacrifice. The students are training to be possessed (sorry, kill and take on the characteristics and magic of one) and thus gain the power to overcome an invasion of demons at the Wall. Drokkard, for example, appear when there is a sacrifice. Voyra appear upon a betrayal, so you can imagine what the final exam is like. My heart flutters in adrenaline!
This was soooo good!
Someone mentioned this title on Facebook. Otherwise, I might not have known about this. The title is not inspiring. The story is.
• Dark academy romance
• Bullying and backstabbing
• Slow burn
• Fade-to-black
• Monster romance
• Demons
• Multiple POV
• Longer story
Only the desperate attend this academy. If you live past the entrance exam, your every waking moment involves training to be a soldier battling demons escaping from the Dusk Gate. To do so, you have to kill a demon in the final exam. Yikes! Briar is not the main character per se; everything revolves around her. She should not have lived. Only through a momentary wish from Sylas does she manage to live, but the magic she manifests is healing, which is not respected. Healers cannot kill demons. While there are 5 different aspects of magic, hers is limited.
However, Sylas accidentally bonded himself to her and needs her blood to stay sane. His best friend Axel becomes Sylas’s enforcing arm, so to speak, and they become a Terrible Triangle of hate and duty. That is complicated enough, but then Greyson visits. Due to his past he has every desire to interfere but surprisingly finds himself falling for Briar. Then there is a tribal group led by a cruel guy named Locke. He orders his group to bully her but she doesn’t back down.
The story was so good I immediately shelved any idea to start another story and totally absorbed myself beyond normal sleep time for days. Normally I get moody and start another book on the side, but noooooo. I am so glad I read this. It’s deep. It’s complex. There are a few answers, but the major questions are still unresolved. Aargh!
The Romance:
First, the main character, Briar: I can sum her up in two words: sour. Pus. Briar came to this academy because taking a poison was better than what she was running from. On the one hand, I admire all the extra work she does to succeed. I admire her self-reliance. On the other hand, she lashes out at everyone and her emotional answer to the slightest setback is hatred. She never thanks anyone’s kind deed.
I don’t like her as much as I want to.
There are 3 men in Briar’s life, and boy do they have some depth:
1. Grayson, who is not the typical alpha male. At first he seems like the sweet next-door neighbor you never knew you had.
2. Sylas: the Noble she accidentally bonded with at the first trial.
3. Axel: the dark villain who actually is my favorite of the three. He does everything for his noble friend, and he must LOVE the Noble to sacrifice so much.
“You over apologise with stuff like that, like you’re worried I’m going to blow up on you.”
Grayson not the best match for Briar. He calls her Queen and acts less like a partner and more like a child. While the romance is sweet it seems doomed. Fade to black. Plus, he has some serious hate-issues with Axel that interfere with his decisions.
Briar, however, is no innocent. Her hatred leads her to spurn Grayson just when he needs her the most, and it leads to deadly mistakes.
Axel is the person I almost swoon over. Despite invading Briar’s personal space and threatening her, Axel sacrifices so much during the story I start to wonder where he is coming from. Is it a bromance? Is he so moral that his twisted methods actually have a pious root inside? OMG, he keeps me guessing and I love it.
Sylas:
Briar has a past that involved a monster and nobles. I am still confused and guessing about her past (and loving it), but her attitude towards the unwanted bond with a Noble is typical: “You demand it when it’s not owed to you and jump straight to bullying it out of me…” Yes, this bond is like a Fated Mate bond. They both get feelings for each other even when Briar is dating Grayson. Awkward! But really, he is a nice guy, if you overlook his murderous demon 😕.
Other characters:
I don’t want to give things away, but occasionally an unsigned letter would show up, and I was confused as to who wrote it. The letters were a prelude to a plot twist I never saw coming! And a character who was minor turned into a surprise!
The World:
There are a number of demons, and these are manifestations of strong moral emotions like sacrifice. The students are training to be possessed (sorry, kill and take on the characteristics and magic of one) and thus gain the power to overcome an invasion of demons at the Wall. Drokkard, for example, appear when there is a sacrifice. Voyra appear upon a betrayal, so you can imagine what the final exam is like. My heart flutters in adrenaline!
This was soooo good!
April 27, 2022
eArC reader
This is my honest opinion and there may be a couple of spoilers. I would rate this book 3.5 stars mainly because of my personal preferences.
I agree with whoever said that this book is Hogwarts only full of demons and monsters. Some don't even have the actual monster look, just look like humans. When I read the short intro to the book all I could think was Dragon Age.
Briar is a low born who enrolled and is soon to enlist to help fight the Breach. And the demons that wish to pour out of the Breach. But first she has to tackle three long terms at the Dusk Wall Academy. Upon initiation she tactfully or stupidly makes a snap decision that soon defines her academy life.
Thrust into an unbreakable bond with the notorious Sylas, Briar regrets everything. More than her past she's running from and wishing to forget. Until she's stronger and able to take revenge. First she must survive the trail of Sylas and his guard dog, Axel.
Both men not liking her at all and even bullying her. For me personally I didn't enjoy the extent of the bullying. This is a dark fantasy and I think the author is going with enemies to lovers scenario. But damn, the male leads are rather cruel. Honestly wanted to punch both men in the face constantly.
We follow the story of Brair trying to navigate and survive. While constantly being reminded that she is a low born and pathetic. Having barely any magical attributes and being weak physically. School is harder for our female lead and the two male leads do not help.
Brair wishes to endure and survive. To get through the first trial of the semester and find out her form. Because what better way to fight unruly demons than with demons. She must kill a demon for her soul to combine with theirs. Fighting at the Breach isn't the only goal Briar has in mind. She strives to surpass all of this and get on track to her real goal.
Okay so maybe a spoiler, but I didn't like how the two male leads treated Briar. Right down to our female lead snapping at one of them stating that she's a human being. To me, personal feelings, it was rather toxic. Again I wanted to punch both male leads.
I don't know if I will be continuing the series. I did love the fantasy and the lacing of demons. The author provided a lot of twists. Some I didn't see coming. But the dynamic between the leads? I want to see Brair get stronger and put the two male leads in their place. The guys I wanted to like and did like them a little more toward the end. Just a little. Their toxic behavior starting out very strong and lessening a little toward the end of the book. Still I wasn't a fan of the bullying and the lines the two males crossed.
I guess I'm just rather head strong and would get a demon of protection. I may read the next book but I am still on the fence. The story ends on a cliffhanger to drive you into the next book. There isn't a happy ending because again this is a series. Can't tie up everything in book one.
Again, this review is my personal opinion and preferences. This may be something you would absolutely love. Whatever you decide, enjoy the book and give the author some stars.
This is my honest opinion and there may be a couple of spoilers. I would rate this book 3.5 stars mainly because of my personal preferences.
I agree with whoever said that this book is Hogwarts only full of demons and monsters. Some don't even have the actual monster look, just look like humans. When I read the short intro to the book all I could think was Dragon Age.
Briar is a low born who enrolled and is soon to enlist to help fight the Breach. And the demons that wish to pour out of the Breach. But first she has to tackle three long terms at the Dusk Wall Academy. Upon initiation she tactfully or stupidly makes a snap decision that soon defines her academy life.
Thrust into an unbreakable bond with the notorious Sylas, Briar regrets everything. More than her past she's running from and wishing to forget. Until she's stronger and able to take revenge. First she must survive the trail of Sylas and his guard dog, Axel.
Both men not liking her at all and even bullying her. For me personally I didn't enjoy the extent of the bullying. This is a dark fantasy and I think the author is going with enemies to lovers scenario. But damn, the male leads are rather cruel. Honestly wanted to punch both men in the face constantly.
We follow the story of Brair trying to navigate and survive. While constantly being reminded that she is a low born and pathetic. Having barely any magical attributes and being weak physically. School is harder for our female lead and the two male leads do not help.
Brair wishes to endure and survive. To get through the first trial of the semester and find out her form. Because what better way to fight unruly demons than with demons. She must kill a demon for her soul to combine with theirs. Fighting at the Breach isn't the only goal Briar has in mind. She strives to surpass all of this and get on track to her real goal.
Okay so maybe a spoiler, but I didn't like how the two male leads treated Briar. Right down to our female lead snapping at one of them stating that she's a human being. To me, personal feelings, it was rather toxic. Again I wanted to punch both male leads.
I don't know if I will be continuing the series. I did love the fantasy and the lacing of demons. The author provided a lot of twists. Some I didn't see coming. But the dynamic between the leads? I want to see Brair get stronger and put the two male leads in their place. The guys I wanted to like and did like them a little more toward the end. Just a little. Their toxic behavior starting out very strong and lessening a little toward the end of the book. Still I wasn't a fan of the bullying and the lines the two males crossed.
I guess I'm just rather head strong and would get a demon of protection. I may read the next book but I am still on the fence. The story ends on a cliffhanger to drive you into the next book. There isn't a happy ending because again this is a series. Can't tie up everything in book one.
Again, this review is my personal opinion and preferences. This may be something you would absolutely love. Whatever you decide, enjoy the book and give the author some stars.
May 5, 2022
Amber and Shadow
Rating 3.5*
I received an advanced reader copy in advance for my voluntary and honest review.
Amber & Shadow is the first book in the Dusk Wall Academy series where students are imbued with magic and taught to fight demons. After three terms they are sent to the Dusk wall for a one year service to fight demons escaping into their world through a Breach. This first book covers their first term from start to the demon trials where they are to kill and bond with a demon. Briar, our FMC, is a lowborn girl who has come to the school after losing her family prior to the beginning of the book. At the academy she meets Sylas, who has already bonded with a vampire demon, and accidentally gets bonded to him. Now she shares half his magic and has to navigate the first term dealing with his feedings to regain his magic weekly. And then there is Axel, Sylas’s watchdog, who absolutely hates the predicament Briar had put Sylas in.
I really did like this book. The author describes it as the Witcher meets Zodiac Academy. While I have not read Zodiac academy I definitely felt Witcher x Hogwarts vibes. While the magic system and the demons were a little confusing, I think a small glossary would solve that. I think all the characters were very well written. I hated and feared Axel a bit for a long while in the book. And both Sylas and Briar spend so much time driven by their past, much of which we still barely know. There is so much hate between the boys and Briar it seems improbable they’d ever be able to find common ground, despite the fact Sylas needs her to keep his magic strong. That being said, I look forward to book 2.
Rating 3.5*
I received an advanced reader copy in advance for my voluntary and honest review.
Amber & Shadow is the first book in the Dusk Wall Academy series where students are imbued with magic and taught to fight demons. After three terms they are sent to the Dusk wall for a one year service to fight demons escaping into their world through a Breach. This first book covers their first term from start to the demon trials where they are to kill and bond with a demon. Briar, our FMC, is a lowborn girl who has come to the school after losing her family prior to the beginning of the book. At the academy she meets Sylas, who has already bonded with a vampire demon, and accidentally gets bonded to him. Now she shares half his magic and has to navigate the first term dealing with his feedings to regain his magic weekly. And then there is Axel, Sylas’s watchdog, who absolutely hates the predicament Briar had put Sylas in.
I really did like this book. The author describes it as the Witcher meets Zodiac Academy. While I have not read Zodiac academy I definitely felt Witcher x Hogwarts vibes. While the magic system and the demons were a little confusing, I think a small glossary would solve that. I think all the characters were very well written. I hated and feared Axel a bit for a long while in the book. And both Sylas and Briar spend so much time driven by their past, much of which we still barely know. There is so much hate between the boys and Briar it seems improbable they’d ever be able to find common ground, despite the fact Sylas needs her to keep his magic strong. That being said, I look forward to book 2.
May 3, 2022
4.25 - This is a very pleasant surprise. It was cover infatuation at first, but I actually enjoy
'Amber and Shadow'
. Which, in all honesty, is rare due to being based on Bully, Enemies to Lovers and Academy/University tropes. The Academy worked this time (for me) because they are 20-25, not teenagers. I still hate the Bullying aspect and it is quite nasty in the beginning.
'Amber and Shadow'
is a slow-burn romance, but according to Marie Mackay, the second book has the "spice payoff" and book three even more according to the acknowledgments.
Emerald and Flame, Book 2: June 1, 2022
Lilac and Thorn, Book 3: July 1, 2022
Possibly Spoiler...
Other than my general dislike of the tropes, my main issue revolves around the powers and secrets. If you know that you and others can use "stealth" (a veil that shifts conscious eyes away from caster.), wouldn't a counter be available or you would really go out of your way to have private conversations, especially to your secrets?
CW/TW: Cheating(ish) and OW drama, mostly secrets and misperception. Per author - ...exploration of violence, suicide and mature sexual situations. The first three chapters have heavier themes of bullying and intimidation. Please read at your discretion.
Emerald and Flame, Book 2: June 1, 2022
Lilac and Thorn, Book 3: July 1, 2022
Possibly Spoiler...
Other than my general dislike of the tropes, my main issue revolves around the powers and secrets. If you know that you and others can use "stealth" (a veil that shifts conscious eyes away from caster.), wouldn't a counter be available or you would really go out of your way to have private conversations, especially to your secrets?
CW/TW: Cheating(ish) and OW drama, mostly secrets and misperception. Per author - ...exploration of violence, suicide and mature sexual situations. The first three chapters have heavier themes of bullying and intimidation. Please read at your discretion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2024
Your classic vampire/werewolf but it actually never made me cringe
The writing is VERY confusing and after going through the reviews it's not a me issue.
The scenes feel disconnected as if it's a patchwork, it doesn't feel cohesive
It took me 6HOURS into the book to get one vitale information about the MC, not until the last hour or so of reading that it all finely made sense.. which is very annoying
If i wasm't dissacociating i would have dnf'd lol
However, when you do finely start understanding what the heck is happening it actually is pretty damn fun!
The magic system is fantastic, and all the characters are good, we could have dived in more into them but this is a series so maybe we'll get more as we go along. The world building was okay, i feel like a magic system this complicated needs more lore and more information, that being said though the little tidbit of information we got about the demons and the surroundings before each chapter were really interesting. But because of the writing style it left a lot of confusion everywhere;
There is literally no spice.
My most prominent negative point is just how confusing it all is to be honest, other than that it'z a pretty fun read and remained unpredictable
2.5☆
The writing is VERY confusing and after going through the reviews it's not a me issue.
The scenes feel disconnected as if it's a patchwork, it doesn't feel cohesive
It took me 6HOURS into the book to get one vitale information about the MC, not until the last hour or so of reading that it all finely made sense.. which is very annoying
If i wasm't dissacociating i would have dnf'd lol
However, when you do finely start understanding what the heck is happening it actually is pretty damn fun!
The magic system is fantastic, and all the characters are good, we could have dived in more into them but this is a series so maybe we'll get more as we go along. The world building was okay, i feel like a magic system this complicated needs more lore and more information, that being said though the little tidbit of information we got about the demons and the surroundings before each chapter were really interesting. But because of the writing style it left a lot of confusion everywhere;
There is literally no spice.
My most prominent negative point is just how confusing it all is to be honest, other than that it'z a pretty fun read and remained unpredictable
2.5☆
January 29, 2023
DNF approximately five chapters in.
I downloaded this book based on something I saw promoting its magic system, binding multiple beings together to share magic, and I was intrigued. The problem was that the first book starts as if the reader has already read half if not a full book before it. There were so many gaps in the story and it seemed like the author might have at first been setting things up for a flashback, but it went on too long that it actually just confused the plot. I had downloaded a compilation of the series just so I didn't have to download multiple books if I wanted to keep reading, and I ended up even going and downloading the first book as an individual book thinking that maybe something had gone wrong and the first book hadn't gotten fully added to the compilation, but it turns out that's just where the book starts. I'm really disappointed because I do think that the magic system and a few of the characters are interesting and I would want to read, but not having missed all of the background information.
I downloaded this book based on something I saw promoting its magic system, binding multiple beings together to share magic, and I was intrigued. The problem was that the first book starts as if the reader has already read half if not a full book before it. There were so many gaps in the story and it seemed like the author might have at first been setting things up for a flashback, but it went on too long that it actually just confused the plot. I had downloaded a compilation of the series just so I didn't have to download multiple books if I wanted to keep reading, and I ended up even going and downloading the first book as an individual book thinking that maybe something had gone wrong and the first book hadn't gotten fully added to the compilation, but it turns out that's just where the book starts. I'm really disappointed because I do think that the magic system and a few of the characters are interesting and I would want to read, but not having missed all of the background information.
March 15, 2023
This is not a romance
I picked this up based on it being a why chose MFM… let me tell you I finished the series and it it’s definitely not at all what I would consider a why choose novel, especially due to the length of time it takes for the main character to have two love interests at the same time.
That said I did read and enjoy the series. I would describe it as more a relationship driven fantasy novel where boundaries and morality is tested and who your can trust is constantly being reevaluated. While there are explicit sex scenes I wouldn’t call this a spice book because they are so offset with *other* plot lines.
I would recommend this series for those who aren’t just looking for a HEA and can deal with mentally abusive undertones. I’ve read many books with trigger warnings that I found lighter than working through this series.
I picked this up based on it being a why chose MFM… let me tell you I finished the series and it it’s definitely not at all what I would consider a why choose novel, especially due to the length of time it takes for the main character to have two love interests at the same time.
That said I did read and enjoy the series. I would describe it as more a relationship driven fantasy novel where boundaries and morality is tested and who your can trust is constantly being reevaluated. While there are explicit sex scenes I wouldn’t call this a spice book because they are so offset with *other* plot lines.
I would recommend this series for those who aren’t just looking for a HEA and can deal with mentally abusive undertones. I’ve read many books with trigger warnings that I found lighter than working through this series.
May 1, 2022
This is the first book of this series and it is seriously off to a good start. There are a lot of twists and turns that leave you wanting more and not being able to put the book down. I absolutely love Blair and can't wait to see what happens from here with her. I'm not surprised by how Greyson turned out as I didn't really like him all that much. Madora seriously surprised me as I so wasn't expecting that. Axel seems like a tough guy to crack but I see something in him that might surprise us later in the series. Sylas isn't at all what I expected. I kept hoping he would show Blair his other side instead of being rude and mean to her. I seriously recommend this book to anyone who looking for a paranormal romance with a great FMC. I can't wait for the next book in this series to come out.
May 3, 2022
I only knew someone stabbed someone else going in and boy was I not disappointed at all. This was such a good book I love the Zodiac Academy meets the Witcher vibes it gave!
Between Briar, Sylas, and Axel I’m in love. I was expecting more enemies to lovers to happen but this is definitely a slowburn so I’m hoping in book 2 I’ll get the Fire I’ve been waiting for!
I love the foreshadowing and the twists this book took. Even though I predicted a few there were still others that were unexpected.
The only part I wasn’t a fan of was the switching perspectives, there were times I got confused who it was following because there was no warning aside from a page breaker when the POV switched. But other than that I loved the story and characters and can’t wait to read more.
Between Briar, Sylas, and Axel I’m in love. I was expecting more enemies to lovers to happen but this is definitely a slowburn so I’m hoping in book 2 I’ll get the Fire I’ve been waiting for!
I love the foreshadowing and the twists this book took. Even though I predicted a few there were still others that were unexpected.
The only part I wasn’t a fan of was the switching perspectives, there were times I got confused who it was following because there was no warning aside from a page breaker when the POV switched. But other than that I loved the story and characters and can’t wait to read more.
May 14, 2022
I received an ARC copy. The following is honest review.
I'm a little confused on how Briar even got into the academy. She didn't have magic. How did she end up bonded to Sylas? Maybe I missed that part. 33% and now I know how they became bonded. 58% and I'm not sure how I feel about Greyson. Axel is an ass. And Sylas has secrets. But Greyson seems sketchy. 70% nice to see Axel and Briar talking... even if it is because hes branding her with magic. I still don't trust Greyson. Hes hiding something. And now Sylas and Axel don't seem quite as horrible as they did at 1st. How did I not know Madora was Maddie? And what is Briar going to do now? She's also a living biomage. Overall I loved the book and can't wait for the next one.
I'm a little confused on how Briar even got into the academy. She didn't have magic. How did she end up bonded to Sylas? Maybe I missed that part. 33% and now I know how they became bonded. 58% and I'm not sure how I feel about Greyson. Axel is an ass. And Sylas has secrets. But Greyson seems sketchy. 70% nice to see Axel and Briar talking... even if it is because hes branding her with magic. I still don't trust Greyson. Hes hiding something. And now Sylas and Axel don't seem quite as horrible as they did at 1st. How did I not know Madora was Maddie? And what is Briar going to do now? She's also a living biomage. Overall I loved the book and can't wait for the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2024
FMC is terrible
Ok, I'm going to go on a little rant for a moment. This is one of the worst FMCs I've read in a long time. She is so selfish and blinded by hatred. I'm not down playing what the MMCs do to her, which in my opinion is alot less then I would've done seeing as sylas literally saved here life more than once and had to share HIS power with her. She's so fucking ungrateful. She would not be alive if it weren't for him. She doesn't think about anyone but herself and has rage issues she seriously needs to work on. Women like this give us all a bad rap. Im all for standing your ground WHEN it is called for. If she hadn't reacted the way she did 90% of the time, shit would've been easier for her. I won't be continuing this series because of her.
Ok, I'm going to go on a little rant for a moment. This is one of the worst FMCs I've read in a long time. She is so selfish and blinded by hatred. I'm not down playing what the MMCs do to her, which in my opinion is alot less then I would've done seeing as sylas literally saved here life more than once and had to share HIS power with her. She's so fucking ungrateful. She would not be alive if it weren't for him. She doesn't think about anyone but herself and has rage issues she seriously needs to work on. Women like this give us all a bad rap. Im all for standing your ground WHEN it is called for. If she hadn't reacted the way she did 90% of the time, shit would've been easier for her. I won't be continuing this series because of her.
April 18, 2022
Note: I received a free copy of this ARC for my honest review!
So i found this book on tiktok and downloaded the arc. Its starts off with bully romance vibes and i can definitely feel this being reminiscent of ZA (the writing was way better then ZA1 in this book though). I was immediately confused by everything going on in the world which just made me want to keep reading more! Was def not expecting some of those twists and turns but holy shit im excited for book 2!
The Highlights:
-Bully Romance
-"Fuck, i hate her but i might be in love with her"
-Forced proximity
-Hidden Identities
-Hogwarts but make it college with demons
So i found this book on tiktok and downloaded the arc. Its starts off with bully romance vibes and i can definitely feel this being reminiscent of ZA (the writing was way better then ZA1 in this book though). I was immediately confused by everything going on in the world which just made me want to keep reading more! Was def not expecting some of those twists and turns but holy shit im excited for book 2!
The Highlights:
-Bully Romance
-"Fuck, i hate her but i might be in love with her"
-Forced proximity
-Hidden Identities
-Hogwarts but make it college with demons
April 26, 2022
⭐️3.5
🌶1
I really enjoyed this book. This story was an interesting take makes and demons. It was at times a little confusing trying to keep track of all the different symbiotes and what they did. A glossary would do wonders for readers to reference throughout the story.
Briar although weak physically was a truly tough FMC. She didn't take any pushing from anyone no matter who or what they were. Alex, I loved to hate him, until I didn't. He and Sylas for all their uncaring ways seemed only care about Briar at least towards the end. I am excited to see where this story goes and how Maddie, Grayson and the other side characters will play into the future story. The cliffhanger...yikes!
🌶1
I really enjoyed this book. This story was an interesting take makes and demons. It was at times a little confusing trying to keep track of all the different symbiotes and what they did. A glossary would do wonders for readers to reference throughout the story.
Briar although weak physically was a truly tough FMC. She didn't take any pushing from anyone no matter who or what they were. Alex, I loved to hate him, until I didn't. He and Sylas for all their uncaring ways seemed only care about Briar at least towards the end. I am excited to see where this story goes and how Maddie, Grayson and the other side characters will play into the future story. The cliffhanger...yikes!
April 29, 2022
As a fellow paranormal romance author I can say I really appreciated my arc copy of Amber and Shadow as I myself am working on a PNR revolving about angels and demons!
I definitely would recommend this story to paranormal romance readers looking for a slow burn romance with some shocking factors at the end. Great details to the working and I found everything to flow super smoothly. I absolutely fell in love with Axel, he was an interesting character.
Looking forward to reading the next books in this series!
I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review!
I definitely would recommend this story to paranormal romance readers looking for a slow burn romance with some shocking factors at the end. Great details to the working and I found everything to flow super smoothly. I absolutely fell in love with Axel, he was an interesting character.
Looking forward to reading the next books in this series!
I received a copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review!
April 30, 2022
Amber & Shadow is the first of a series of books about Dusk Wall Academy where students are taught for three terms to defeat demons before completing a year of service at a breach in the Dusk Wall. The story focuses mainly on twenty-year-old Briar as she navigates bullies, classes, training, and pesky feelings during her first term at the school. But we also get peeks into her enemies’ heads, Sylas and Axel, as well as another boy, Greyson. This story is brilliantly written. I was literally on the edge of my seat, unable to stop reading. Simply put, I had to know what was coming next! If you like paranormal romances, bully romances, this book is a MUST READ! Cannot wait for the next!
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