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Two Worlds: Magic Squad #1
The Academy: Detective Stories
Elisa applies to the Academy to become a detective. To her own surprise, she is not the only woman studying here. Jackie and Elisa quickly become best friends and fall in love with each other.
Together, they dream of stopping the local gang who sells drugs to teenagers. However, they are surrounded by male guardians, which means that their mistake might cost them a career.
Will they manage to catch a criminal boss without ruining their reputation?
Together, they dream of stopping the local gang who sells drugs to teenagers. However, they are surrounded by male guardians, which means that their mistake might cost them a career.
Will they manage to catch a criminal boss without ruining their reputation?
- GenresFantasyParanormal
402 pages, Paperback
Published May 5, 2022
3 people are currently reading
4384 people want to read
About the author
Lubov Leonova
6 books137 followersI’m in love with reading. I guess all the books I've ever read impacted me in a great way – they let me expand my worldview and inspired me to pursue my dreams despite the obstacles.
Born in Russia, I immigrated to Canada in 2014, where I faced multiple challenges, including building my own life from scratch and figuring out what career path would let me use my full potential.
My searches led me to feminist studies in college and volunteering in female support groups. My experience slowly took shape as ideas for my fantasy series Two Worlds, in which women shape the sphere of justice with their natural talents.
Born in Russia, I immigrated to Canada in 2014, where I faced multiple challenges, including building my own life from scratch and figuring out what career path would let me use my full potential.
My searches led me to feminist studies in college and volunteering in female support groups. My experience slowly took shape as ideas for my fantasy series Two Worlds, in which women shape the sphere of justice with their natural talents.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 14, 2022
Love from the first pages
I enjoyed reading this amazing story about two young women who study in a magical Academy. They learn spells, get enrolled in interesting crime investigations, and try to help each other with the personal issues on the way.
The main characters and their friends are very realistic and each of them has their own flaws. This is the story about friendship, love, and youth. I also loved the way the book is organized - it is split into 8 convenient short stories, and it makes reading very engaging and fast.
The book raises such issues as domestic violence and portrays the world where feministic movement has just begun. Even though it's marked as 'New Adult', I really recommend it for women of all ages
I enjoyed reading this amazing story about two young women who study in a magical Academy. They learn spells, get enrolled in interesting crime investigations, and try to help each other with the personal issues on the way.
The main characters and their friends are very realistic and each of them has their own flaws. This is the story about friendship, love, and youth. I also loved the way the book is organized - it is split into 8 convenient short stories, and it makes reading very engaging and fast.
The book raises such issues as domestic violence and portrays the world where feministic movement has just begun. Even though it's marked as 'New Adult', I really recommend it for women of all ages
August 28, 2025
A Poignant Story
From the first pages, I was hooked by Elisa and Jackie’s first meeting as they got accepted to study at the Guardian Academy. What’s so special about it? They are the first women to ever take this role – they are about to become Guardians, the ones who help bring justice.
Surely, their first interaction with the male cadets doesn’t go well! I must admit that the scene seems somewhat exaggerated, as it portrays the men as shallow and overly cruel. However, it’s only a scene that perhaps shows what it looks like for a woman who dares to step into a male-dominated environment. As I read past chapter two, the story took on depth, showing the men changing as they embark on a quest and learn more about their female peers.
The next journeys include four friends – two men and two women. It was exciting to see them working together and helping each other in times of crisis, whether it’s heartbreak or overcoming addiction (no spoilers!)
Overall, this is the story that stays with you long after the last page is turned!
From the first pages, I was hooked by Elisa and Jackie’s first meeting as they got accepted to study at the Guardian Academy. What’s so special about it? They are the first women to ever take this role – they are about to become Guardians, the ones who help bring justice.
Surely, their first interaction with the male cadets doesn’t go well! I must admit that the scene seems somewhat exaggerated, as it portrays the men as shallow and overly cruel. However, it’s only a scene that perhaps shows what it looks like for a woman who dares to step into a male-dominated environment. As I read past chapter two, the story took on depth, showing the men changing as they embark on a quest and learn more about their female peers.
The next journeys include four friends – two men and two women. It was exciting to see them working together and helping each other in times of crisis, whether it’s heartbreak or overcoming addiction (no spoilers!)
Overall, this is the story that stays with you long after the last page is turned!
November 29, 2023
This book was great !! I love a story about an academy and people working together. The friendship between them reminds me a lot of aot and that made me miss aot even more oml🥲. I have to give a bonus point to the author for the encyclopedia! Its a nice way to give more insight on multiple things of the book like the mages’s animals for example or even the flora of the crystal world. The show Vampire academy is kind of similar to this book because the teenagers are working and training to protect the population against a certain enemy. I’m a sucker for forbidden love so the relationship between Jackie and Elisa was nice to see 🤭. It kinda upsets me when they had to be with other people but I think that it did add something to the book so it is not necessarily a bad thing. “Jackie, I thought a lot about it. About us.” She gave her a sharp look. “We simply can’t be together.” ( i was screaming internally while reading this LMFAOO ). The plot is fast-paced, it is easy to understand and it really grabs our attention ! I’ve never heard of this author before but i wouldn’t mind reading another book if the style is similar because this was a pleasant read :)
November 11, 2022
Is it difficult to be a woman? How does a woman feel in a world, where her choices are limited and their scope is defined by men? Can a woman do something to change these rules? And finally, is trying to change the situation worth it?
Many women around the world, at least from time to time, find themselves musing over these questions.
“The Academy” by Lubov Leonova is set in a magical world. It may seem that people with powerful magical gifts should live by completely different rules than we do in our “ordinary” world. Alas, the author masterfully shows that human nature remains the same irrespective of a person’s extraordinary abilities. Just like in real life, those prone to greed and violence, seek ways to satisfy their sinful urges. And they don’t care if people get hurt while they pursue their criminal agenda.
Two girls arrive at the Guardian Academy. They are the first women ever allowed to join the Guardian study programme. Elisa and Jackie both are determined to prove that they are as worthy to become Guardians as male students. But one by one, there appear obstacles on the way to their dream. The feelings they start having for each other only complicate things.
Everyone at the Guardian Academy seems to have secrets. Elisa and Jackie have them too. Despite their closeness, they are reluctant to share everything about their past. After all, people they had trusted betrayed them before.
Elisa and Jackie get involved in serious investigations. Sometimes they fail, but is it really their fault? Maybe their failures are staged by men who use them in their power play? And if indeed, the stakes are so high the culprits can’t afford to lose, what are the two young women’s chances to win this game?
In my review of the first book in the series “Ghost”, I said that I’d love to learn more about the dragons. And in “The Academy” we do get to meet these magnificent creatures. Some of them are lovely, while others are completely terrifying.
Along with being a definite page-turner, this book makes the reader think. “The Academy” is a coming-of-age story, and the author lets us follow not only Jackie and Elisa’s journey to adulthood. We get to know other characters’ stories, and every story adds to the multi-layered picture of the magical world created by Lubov Leonova.
Many women around the world, at least from time to time, find themselves musing over these questions.
“The Academy” by Lubov Leonova is set in a magical world. It may seem that people with powerful magical gifts should live by completely different rules than we do in our “ordinary” world. Alas, the author masterfully shows that human nature remains the same irrespective of a person’s extraordinary abilities. Just like in real life, those prone to greed and violence, seek ways to satisfy their sinful urges. And they don’t care if people get hurt while they pursue their criminal agenda.
Two girls arrive at the Guardian Academy. They are the first women ever allowed to join the Guardian study programme. Elisa and Jackie both are determined to prove that they are as worthy to become Guardians as male students. But one by one, there appear obstacles on the way to their dream. The feelings they start having for each other only complicate things.
Everyone at the Guardian Academy seems to have secrets. Elisa and Jackie have them too. Despite their closeness, they are reluctant to share everything about their past. After all, people they had trusted betrayed them before.
Elisa and Jackie get involved in serious investigations. Sometimes they fail, but is it really their fault? Maybe their failures are staged by men who use them in their power play? And if indeed, the stakes are so high the culprits can’t afford to lose, what are the two young women’s chances to win this game?
In my review of the first book in the series “Ghost”, I said that I’d love to learn more about the dragons. And in “The Academy” we do get to meet these magnificent creatures. Some of them are lovely, while others are completely terrifying.
Along with being a definite page-turner, this book makes the reader think. “The Academy” is a coming-of-age story, and the author lets us follow not only Jackie and Elisa’s journey to adulthood. We get to know other characters’ stories, and every story adds to the multi-layered picture of the magical world created by Lubov Leonova.
August 23, 2025
Mystery, Magic, and Dragons… what a great read!
I picked this book after reading the previous series, and not surprisingly, this one didn’t disappoint.
This time, the story follows Elisa, the girl who survived the serial killer in the previous series. Now, Elisa is a protagonist with her own thrilling journey!
It was great to see the new faces, as well as the mentions of what happened to the familiar characters. I especially loved Theo, the guy with the Gift of Fire, who first acts arrogantly, then becomes best friends with Elisa.
Jackie and a forbidden romance theme were especially poignant. Haunted by her tragic past, Jackie finds escape in helping others. The Academy for the Guardians (aka police force) seems to be a perfect place to start a career as a lawyer to protect other women from domestic violence. However, she must first learn how to let go of her own pain.
Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this story, from stealing the dragon eggs together with four friends to the moment they finally caught the criminal boss.
If you’re tired of regular fantasy, this read might give you a fresh perspective, leaving you totally satisfied!
I picked this book after reading the previous series, and not surprisingly, this one didn’t disappoint.
This time, the story follows Elisa, the girl who survived the serial killer in the previous series. Now, Elisa is a protagonist with her own thrilling journey!
It was great to see the new faces, as well as the mentions of what happened to the familiar characters. I especially loved Theo, the guy with the Gift of Fire, who first acts arrogantly, then becomes best friends with Elisa.
Jackie and a forbidden romance theme were especially poignant. Haunted by her tragic past, Jackie finds escape in helping others. The Academy for the Guardians (aka police force) seems to be a perfect place to start a career as a lawyer to protect other women from domestic violence. However, she must first learn how to let go of her own pain.
Overall, I genuinely enjoyed this story, from stealing the dragon eggs together with four friends to the moment they finally caught the criminal boss.
If you’re tired of regular fantasy, this read might give you a fresh perspective, leaving you totally satisfied!
November 6, 2025
This book takes the classic magical academy setup and throws a detective twist on it, which I loved. Elisa is a great lead—she's gutsy but still figuring out her Lightning Gift in an environment full of men who clearly don't want her there. The dynamic at Guardian Academy is instantly engaging, mixing student politics and daily pranks with serious detective training. Her growing LGTBQ+ relationship with Jackie felt really genuine and was a major highlight of the story, giving them a needed sanctuary from the chaos. Together, they team up to tackle a serious local drug gang problem that affects teenagers, and the stakes feel incredibly real because their careers, and potentially their freedom, hang in the balance. I was completely hooked by the mystery and the difficult choices they face. The author balances the fun of the student life with the dark, complex elements of their detective work extremely well. This is a must-read for fans who want strong female protagonists, meaningful romance, and a compelling urban fantasy mystery. I am already ready for the next book to find out if they catch the criminal boss without totally ruining their future.
March 12, 2023
Another magical realism-themed novel Beautifully written. A story with magical experiences. It's about some budding detectives who has magical gifts. very engaging and easy to read. The book is set in a time when women's empowerment had just begun.
The Academy by Lubov Leonova is all about the magical world, magic, dragons, etc. It depicts a time when the world was adapting to accept women in every field of work.
The story starts with a character, Jackie, who is accepted into The Guardian Academy to become a detective and help the community solve cases and crimes using her mind-reading ability. She meets another female student enrolled the same day, Elisa, who has a gift of fire. These two were also the first female cadets in the academy, depicting a revolution in women's society.
Of course, there were many obstacles on their journey in the academy, where the women are identified as weak and emotional. It's a male-dominated society.
Apart from magic, spells, magical gifts, and dragons, the story has love angles, actions, mystery, and suspense. A mixture of magical worlds tied with modern ideology The book is LGBTQ-friendly.
Question: Will these two be able to bring a change in their society, proving that women can achieve whatever they want if they have a strong will and are well supported? How will the cadets learn to control their magical gifts in order to help society and create a crime- and drug-free environment?
The Academy is another e-book I received from BookTasters. I chose this book and asked for it to be read, and I'm happy that I did. I've always been a fan of magical fantasy, and this book reminded me why I'm a fan. Haven't we all wished to have some magical powers?
The story is very fluid and easy to read. It's a page-turner and very easy to connect with the characters. It was interesting to read about the different magical abilities these characters had, how the two female cadets were laughed at at first but later made everyone proud, and how the male-dominated society slowly accepted equity.
I loved how the author added the concept of modern love through Jackie, who is exploring herself and later accepts herself as a part of the LGBTQ community. My favorite parts of this book were (I think you guessed it right) the magic, abilities, and women's empowerment.
I would recommend reading this book if you love magical fantasy with a touch of crime, mystery, and suspense. It will surely leave a smile at the end of the read. Well, I kept hoping that I could have the ability to move objects with my mental power, telekinesis. Which magic ability fascinates you the most?
The Academy by Lubov Leonova is all about the magical world, magic, dragons, etc. It depicts a time when the world was adapting to accept women in every field of work.
The story starts with a character, Jackie, who is accepted into The Guardian Academy to become a detective and help the community solve cases and crimes using her mind-reading ability. She meets another female student enrolled the same day, Elisa, who has a gift of fire. These two were also the first female cadets in the academy, depicting a revolution in women's society.
Of course, there were many obstacles on their journey in the academy, where the women are identified as weak and emotional. It's a male-dominated society.
Apart from magic, spells, magical gifts, and dragons, the story has love angles, actions, mystery, and suspense. A mixture of magical worlds tied with modern ideology The book is LGBTQ-friendly.
Question: Will these two be able to bring a change in their society, proving that women can achieve whatever they want if they have a strong will and are well supported? How will the cadets learn to control their magical gifts in order to help society and create a crime- and drug-free environment?
The Academy is another e-book I received from BookTasters. I chose this book and asked for it to be read, and I'm happy that I did. I've always been a fan of magical fantasy, and this book reminded me why I'm a fan. Haven't we all wished to have some magical powers?
The story is very fluid and easy to read. It's a page-turner and very easy to connect with the characters. It was interesting to read about the different magical abilities these characters had, how the two female cadets were laughed at at first but later made everyone proud, and how the male-dominated society slowly accepted equity.
I loved how the author added the concept of modern love through Jackie, who is exploring herself and later accepts herself as a part of the LGBTQ community. My favorite parts of this book were (I think you guessed it right) the magic, abilities, and women's empowerment.
I would recommend reading this book if you love magical fantasy with a touch of crime, mystery, and suspense. It will surely leave a smile at the end of the read. Well, I kept hoping that I could have the ability to move objects with my mental power, telekinesis. Which magic ability fascinates you the most?
April 1, 2023
Thank you to Booktasters and the author for providing the ARC for this 😊
I really enjoyed this book and I absolutely love the world building and characters. The story is divided into parts and there's multiple POV. This book does mention rape and violence.
It's a good read for those who enjoy fantasy, mystery and romance genre. I also love the queer rep here and I think the main couple is so cute✨❤️
Although it's an enjoyable read, the pacing is a bit off and I would really love if the world building and characters get expanded more. The glossary at the end of the book does help but I think it would be better if the world building has more exposition in the story since I did struggle getting into it in the first few chapters.
Other than that, the characters are intriguing and relatable. Since the story is in multiple POVs, you get a deeper understanding of the characters. You'll also get to see their development as the story goes on and it's really nice to see their growth.
I should also mention the many themes that is in this book which interested me the most. Misogyny, corruption, homophobia and so many more social issues that is also happening in our world. I absolutely admired how the women in this story are fighters. Even though they have been through a traumatic event, gender bias and discrimination, they still choose to fight for a better future and decided to be a Guardian which are mainly consists of men.
Overall, the story is engaging despite the pacing and the characters are well written.
I really enjoyed this book and I absolutely love the world building and characters. The story is divided into parts and there's multiple POV. This book does mention rape and violence.
It's a good read for those who enjoy fantasy, mystery and romance genre. I also love the queer rep here and I think the main couple is so cute✨❤️
Although it's an enjoyable read, the pacing is a bit off and I would really love if the world building and characters get expanded more. The glossary at the end of the book does help but I think it would be better if the world building has more exposition in the story since I did struggle getting into it in the first few chapters.
Other than that, the characters are intriguing and relatable. Since the story is in multiple POVs, you get a deeper understanding of the characters. You'll also get to see their development as the story goes on and it's really nice to see their growth.
I should also mention the many themes that is in this book which interested me the most. Misogyny, corruption, homophobia and so many more social issues that is also happening in our world. I absolutely admired how the women in this story are fighters. Even though they have been through a traumatic event, gender bias and discrimination, they still choose to fight for a better future and decided to be a Guardian which are mainly consists of men.
Overall, the story is engaging despite the pacing and the characters are well written.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2025
A Saga about Love, Friendship, and Dragons
Beautifully written, this story was an absolute page-turner!
Starting from the beginning, my curiosity was piqued when Elisa met Jackie, the other female pioneer in the Academy for the Guardians. As they learn, their mission isn’t just to ‘fit in.’ They must find a way to complete their first year of studying without getting into trouble, so they can take part in an undercover operation to catch a criminal boss selling drugs to teens.
Of course, it’s easier said than done! On their first day of classes, they encounter Theo, their peer and a seemingly arrogant young man with the Gift of Fire. The contradiction lasts for a while before everyone eventually understands that collaboration is the best way to win the quest and succeed as a team.
Their journey of becoming friends is touching and thoughtful. In the end, I was pleasantly surprised by the way all the characters step up for each other, ready to risk their careers and even lives to help each other.
Overall, “The Academy” is an enjoyable read for the fans of fantasy and adventure!
Beautifully written, this story was an absolute page-turner!
Starting from the beginning, my curiosity was piqued when Elisa met Jackie, the other female pioneer in the Academy for the Guardians. As they learn, their mission isn’t just to ‘fit in.’ They must find a way to complete their first year of studying without getting into trouble, so they can take part in an undercover operation to catch a criminal boss selling drugs to teens.
Of course, it’s easier said than done! On their first day of classes, they encounter Theo, their peer and a seemingly arrogant young man with the Gift of Fire. The contradiction lasts for a while before everyone eventually understands that collaboration is the best way to win the quest and succeed as a team.
Their journey of becoming friends is touching and thoughtful. In the end, I was pleasantly surprised by the way all the characters step up for each other, ready to risk their careers and even lives to help each other.
Overall, “The Academy” is an enjoyable read for the fans of fantasy and adventure!
June 28, 2022
This book is wonderful and is a perfect mix of modern and magical. The characters are original and well-developed and, not to mention, the plot is great. I quite enjoyed how the book is split into separate stories, so you can read bit by bit. Lubov Leonova's creation could rival Harry Potter.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 27, 2023
This is like harry potter with female lead characters. This children's story of joining the detective academy and fighting crime is a fun read. I liked the author's imagination. And her values about friendship.
December 15, 2025
Good fantasy read with a twist
“The Academy: Detective Stories” offers an interesting blend of fantasy, mystery, and coming-of-age drama set within a supernatural academy. One aspect I genuinely enjoyed was the structure of the book: although it’s broken down into separate detective stories, everything still moves forward along a coherent overarching storyline. This episodic approach keeps the pacing varied while allowing the characters and world to develop steadily.
The story centers on Eliza and Jackie, the two main protagonists, whose journey through the academy forms the emotional core of the book. While the worldbuilding relies heavily on supernatural elements and special “Gifts,” there were moments where the story felt closer to a teenage drama, especially in its exploration of inequality, feminism, and social dynamics within the academy. That isn’t necessarily a drawback, but it does give the book a very specific tone that blends fantasy investigation with modern, relatable issues.
It took me several chapters to fully adjust to the writing style, but once I did, the story pulled me in and kept me engaged. Following Eliza and Jackie as they navigate investigations, friendships, and personal challenges became increasingly compelling as the book found its rhythm. Overall, this is an engaging read for those who enjoy supernatural academies, detective plots, and character-driven stories that explore both mystery and social themes.
“The Academy: Detective Stories” offers an interesting blend of fantasy, mystery, and coming-of-age drama set within a supernatural academy. One aspect I genuinely enjoyed was the structure of the book: although it’s broken down into separate detective stories, everything still moves forward along a coherent overarching storyline. This episodic approach keeps the pacing varied while allowing the characters and world to develop steadily.
The story centers on Eliza and Jackie, the two main protagonists, whose journey through the academy forms the emotional core of the book. While the worldbuilding relies heavily on supernatural elements and special “Gifts,” there were moments where the story felt closer to a teenage drama, especially in its exploration of inequality, feminism, and social dynamics within the academy. That isn’t necessarily a drawback, but it does give the book a very specific tone that blends fantasy investigation with modern, relatable issues.
It took me several chapters to fully adjust to the writing style, but once I did, the story pulled me in and kept me engaged. Following Eliza and Jackie as they navigate investigations, friendships, and personal challenges became increasingly compelling as the book found its rhythm. Overall, this is an engaging read for those who enjoy supernatural academies, detective plots, and character-driven stories that explore both mystery and social themes.
April 15, 2024
This was a fun read about a group of friends going through superhero police school, essentially. I really enjoyed the dynamic between the friends and the growth between the characters over the lessons learned and their experiences. The forbidden love between the kick-ass female characters was believable and a rollercoaster. My complaint is the lack of editing - there were so many awkward phrasing or wrong word usage. I definitely understand; the author's first language is my first language, and the type of errors made are exactly the errors my parents still make ("a" instead of "the", not knowing idioms and sayings), but an editor would catch all that. It was distracting.
February 23, 2024
This book was quite misleading and I was often left confused with the transitions.
Whilst this was a quick read, I was also just not connected to it.
Thank you Booktasters for a copy of this novel to review.
Whilst this was a quick read, I was also just not connected to it.
Thank you Booktasters for a copy of this novel to review.
January 8, 2024
Enjoy these characters
January 5, 2024
i freaking loved this! i just hoped the plot wouldn’t be a little predictable and generic to other fantasy / dystopian books but this was so good anyway!!
definitely a mix of Harry Potter and fourth wing but i didn’t mind this at all
definitely a mix of Harry Potter and fourth wing but i didn’t mind this at all
December 27, 2023
This was a really good book and well worth reading. I would definitely recommend it if you like mysteries and young adult fiction. It's a very accessible and easy to read book. The female leads are portrayed excellently and the reader can easily connect with them. It's a real page turner!
November 12, 2023
but sometimes it seems that the whole world went insane. Like it will never stop.
It was an enjoyable read and by the end the style, descriptions, improve a lot. Although it does have glossary at the end and it is appreciated. I feel like I lacked world building before we get into the adventures of these apprentices. In each story there is new information but in the first one I was a bit lost.
The easy part of the reading was identifying the characters, each had their own way of development (Elisa is my favorite).
I admire most of the women in this story a lot but still disagreed with certain behaviors (Jackie saying Elisa is hypocritical or Howard a distrustful, but not admitting he uses them). I think the weakest part of the story is just the loves, I liked the friendships better(Theo/Elisa).
I still hope they keep fighting for their rightful place in that society.
Edit: I have seen the world encyclopedia page online and it is fantastic. Very informative without being overly heavy handed. I think it is misplaced at the end. If the link was at the beginning it would be great
°°°°°°°°
Pero a veces parece que el mundo entero se ha vuelto loco. Como si nunca fuera a parar.
Ha sido una lectura bastante agradable y al final el estilo, las descripciones, mejoran un montón. Aunque tiene glosario al final y se agradece, siento que me faltó construcción del mundo antes de adentrarnos en las aventuras de estos aprendices.
En cada historia hay información nueva pero en las primeras me perdí un poco.
Lo más fácil de la lectura fue identificar a los personajes, cada uno tenía su forma de desarrollarse (Elisa es mi favorita).
Admiro mucho a la mayoría de las mujeres de esta historia pero sigo sin estar de acuerdo con ciertos comportamientos (Jackie diciendo que Elisa es hipócrita o Howard un desconfiado, pero sin admitir que las utiliza y demás).
Creo que lo más flojo de la historia son justamente los amores, me gustaba más como eran las amistades (Theo/Elisa- Elisa/Laura/Jackie).
Aun así espero que sigan luchando por el lugar que les corresponde en esa sociedad.
Edit: Fui a ver la página de la enciclopedia del mundo en online y es fantástica. Muy informativa sin ser demasiado pesada. Creo que está mal colocado al final. Si el enlace estuviera al principio sería genial.
It was an enjoyable read and by the end the style, descriptions, improve a lot. Although it does have glossary at the end and it is appreciated. I feel like I lacked world building before we get into the adventures of these apprentices. In each story there is new information but in the first one I was a bit lost.
The easy part of the reading was identifying the characters, each had their own way of development (Elisa is my favorite).
I admire most of the women in this story a lot but still disagreed with certain behaviors (Jackie saying Elisa is hypocritical or Howard a distrustful, but not admitting he uses them). I think the weakest part of the story is just the loves, I liked the friendships better(Theo/Elisa).
I still hope they keep fighting for their rightful place in that society.
Edit: I have seen the world encyclopedia page online and it is fantastic. Very informative without being overly heavy handed. I think it is misplaced at the end. If the link was at the beginning it would be great
°°°°°°°°
Pero a veces parece que el mundo entero se ha vuelto loco. Como si nunca fuera a parar.
Ha sido una lectura bastante agradable y al final el estilo, las descripciones, mejoran un montón. Aunque tiene glosario al final y se agradece, siento que me faltó construcción del mundo antes de adentrarnos en las aventuras de estos aprendices.
En cada historia hay información nueva pero en las primeras me perdí un poco.
Lo más fácil de la lectura fue identificar a los personajes, cada uno tenía su forma de desarrollarse (Elisa es mi favorita).
Admiro mucho a la mayoría de las mujeres de esta historia pero sigo sin estar de acuerdo con ciertos comportamientos (Jackie diciendo que Elisa es hipócrita o Howard un desconfiado, pero sin admitir que las utiliza y demás).
Creo que lo más flojo de la historia son justamente los amores, me gustaba más como eran las amistades (Theo/Elisa- Elisa/Laura/Jackie).
Aun así espero que sigan luchando por el lugar que les corresponde en esa sociedad.
Edit: Fui a ver la página de la enciclopedia del mundo en online y es fantástica. Muy informativa sin ser demasiado pesada. Creo que está mal colocado al final. Si el enlace estuviera al principio sería genial.
July 19, 2022
This book is Amazing! I enjoyed every second of reading this book. I thought the mix of Fantasy and Crime/detective was a great idea. Lubov has created such loveable characters that cared so deeply for each other. Lubov's writing is so smooth and easy to read. The Academy is such a unique book, I definitely recommend.
November 10, 2023
*was sent a copy of this book for review*
I really enjoyed this book, was hooked from the start.
The magic system really drew me in as it wasn’t like anything I have read before & I think that’s what contributed to me just wanting to read more as I was so fascinated.
I enjoyed following the journey of the main character and her friends as they are trying to solve crimes.
If you are looking for a book with Harry Potter vibes then this is for you.
I really enjoyed this book, was hooked from the start.
The magic system really drew me in as it wasn’t like anything I have read before & I think that’s what contributed to me just wanting to read more as I was so fascinated.
I enjoyed following the journey of the main character and her friends as they are trying to solve crimes.
If you are looking for a book with Harry Potter vibes then this is for you.
July 6, 2023
really enjoyed, fun and interesting, looking forward to letting my teen daughters read this series
Goodreads giveaway
Goodreads giveaway
February 16, 2026
REVIEW OF THE BOOK "THE ACADEMY: A SERIES OF DETECTIVE STORIES " BY LUBOV LEONOVA.
Lubov Leonova’s The Academy: A Series of Detective Stories is an intriguing hybrid that bridges the gap between traditional "Whodunnit" mysteries and New Adult Urban Fantasy. Set within the "Two Worlds" universe, it serves as an origin story for characters who must navigate a patriarchal society using both their wits and their magical "Gifts."
1. Character Quality: The Weight of the "Gift"
Leonova’s characters are defined by their "Gifts"—supernatural abilities that act as metaphors for their internal struggles.
Elisa (The Protagonist): Elisa is a refreshing lead. Unlike many fantasy heroines who are "instantly elite," Elisa struggles to tame her Lightning Gift. This creates a compelling vulnerability; she has the raw power to be a detective, but lacks the control. Her primary strength is actually her natural curiosity and attention to detail, which makes her a true detective at heart rather than just a magical powerhouse.
Jackie (The Foil/Partner): Jackie provides the emotional anchor. The chemistry between Elisa and Jackie is handled with a genuine, slow-burn sincerity. Their LGTBQ+ relationship isn't just a subplot; it’s a "sanctuary" that offsets the harsh, male-dominated environment of the Guardian Academy.
The Male Peers: The secondary male characters often serve as the primary "obstacles." Leonova uses them effectively to highlight the feminist undercurrents of the book—their pranks and dismissiveness reflect a society not yet ready for female authority.
2. Plot Quality: Structure and Tension
The book is uniquely structured as a series of eight interconnected short stories. This episodic format is both its greatest strength and a potential hurdle for some readers.
Pacing: Because the book is split into stories, the pacing is exceptionally fast. Each "case" serves a dual purpose: solving a specific crime (like the drug gang targeting teenagers) and moving Elisa one step closer to becoming a full-blown Guardian.
World-Building: Leonova builds the "Crystal World" through action rather than "info-dumping." We learn about the laws of magic and the hierarchy of the Academy through the pranks Elisa endures and the crimes she investigates.
The Detective Element: While there is magic, the "Detective" in the title is literal. The plot relies on red herrings, interrogation, and evidence-gathering. It honors the tropes of crime fiction (the shadowy "criminal boss") while placing them in a world with dragons and lightning.
3. General Review: The Personal View
From a professional standpoint, The Academy is a successful Social Commentary masquerading as a Mystery. What Works:
Feminist Lens: The book is a clear "coming-of-age" story for women in a world that wants to keep them sidelined. It manages to be "inspirational" without being "preachy."
Engagement: It is a "page-turner" because of its short-story format. It’s easy to pick up for 20 minutes and feel like you’ve completed a full narrative arc.
What to Consider:
Genre Blending: If you are a hardcore "Hardboiled Detective" fan, the magical elements might feel like they lower the stakes. Conversely, if you want "High Fantasy," the focus on police procedure and academy pranks might feel too grounded.
The "First Book" Feel: As the first in the Magic Squad duology, it spends a significant amount of time setting the stage. Some plot threads are left hanging to be resolved in the sequel, Forbidden Manuscript.
The Verdict: The Academy is a "Magical Realist" triumph that uses the supernatural to tell a very human story about finding one's place in a hostile world. It is a must-read for fans of The Magicians or Enola Holmes who are looking for a queer-inclusive, feminist twist on the academy trope.
Lubov Leonova’s The Academy: A Series of Detective Stories is an intriguing hybrid that bridges the gap between traditional "Whodunnit" mysteries and New Adult Urban Fantasy. Set within the "Two Worlds" universe, it serves as an origin story for characters who must navigate a patriarchal society using both their wits and their magical "Gifts."
1. Character Quality: The Weight of the "Gift"
Leonova’s characters are defined by their "Gifts"—supernatural abilities that act as metaphors for their internal struggles.
Elisa (The Protagonist): Elisa is a refreshing lead. Unlike many fantasy heroines who are "instantly elite," Elisa struggles to tame her Lightning Gift. This creates a compelling vulnerability; she has the raw power to be a detective, but lacks the control. Her primary strength is actually her natural curiosity and attention to detail, which makes her a true detective at heart rather than just a magical powerhouse.
Jackie (The Foil/Partner): Jackie provides the emotional anchor. The chemistry between Elisa and Jackie is handled with a genuine, slow-burn sincerity. Their LGTBQ+ relationship isn't just a subplot; it’s a "sanctuary" that offsets the harsh, male-dominated environment of the Guardian Academy.
The Male Peers: The secondary male characters often serve as the primary "obstacles." Leonova uses them effectively to highlight the feminist undercurrents of the book—their pranks and dismissiveness reflect a society not yet ready for female authority.
2. Plot Quality: Structure and Tension
The book is uniquely structured as a series of eight interconnected short stories. This episodic format is both its greatest strength and a potential hurdle for some readers.
Pacing: Because the book is split into stories, the pacing is exceptionally fast. Each "case" serves a dual purpose: solving a specific crime (like the drug gang targeting teenagers) and moving Elisa one step closer to becoming a full-blown Guardian.
World-Building: Leonova builds the "Crystal World" through action rather than "info-dumping." We learn about the laws of magic and the hierarchy of the Academy through the pranks Elisa endures and the crimes she investigates.
The Detective Element: While there is magic, the "Detective" in the title is literal. The plot relies on red herrings, interrogation, and evidence-gathering. It honors the tropes of crime fiction (the shadowy "criminal boss") while placing them in a world with dragons and lightning.
3. General Review: The Personal View
From a professional standpoint, The Academy is a successful Social Commentary masquerading as a Mystery. What Works:
Feminist Lens: The book is a clear "coming-of-age" story for women in a world that wants to keep them sidelined. It manages to be "inspirational" without being "preachy."
Engagement: It is a "page-turner" because of its short-story format. It’s easy to pick up for 20 minutes and feel like you’ve completed a full narrative arc.
What to Consider:
Genre Blending: If you are a hardcore "Hardboiled Detective" fan, the magical elements might feel like they lower the stakes. Conversely, if you want "High Fantasy," the focus on police procedure and academy pranks might feel too grounded.
The "First Book" Feel: As the first in the Magic Squad duology, it spends a significant amount of time setting the stage. Some plot threads are left hanging to be resolved in the sequel, Forbidden Manuscript.
The Verdict: The Academy is a "Magical Realist" triumph that uses the supernatural to tell a very human story about finding one's place in a hostile world. It is a must-read for fans of The Magicians or Enola Holmes who are looking for a queer-inclusive, feminist twist on the academy trope.
April 21, 2024
Book Review
Basic Details:
Book Title: The Academy: Detective Stories
Subtitle: (Two Worlds: Magic Squad Book 1)
Author: Lubov Leonova
Genre: (Science) Fiction
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series? N/A
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Overall score:
I scored this book 4/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
In a world where magic is the norm, it’s abnormal to be without powers. Two young women attend the academy to become guardians. Both have a traumatic past and both need to prove their worth as the first females accepted. Will they succeed and become the detectives they wish to be? And will their love be accepted?
What I liked about the book:
The book is action-filled, with heartache, intrigue and deception.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The book was enjoyable in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I look forward to reading more.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This is a fiction/fantasy novel.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book to the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like stories about magic and intrigue, this book may be the book for you.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Elisa applies to the Academy to become a detective. To her own surprise, she is not the only woman studying here. Jackie and Elisa quickly become best friends and fall in love with each other.
Together, they dream of stopping the local gang who sells drugs to teenagers. However, they are surrounded by male guardians, which means that their mistake might cost them a career.
Will they manage to catch a criminal boss without ruining their reputation?
About the Author:
I was always in love with reading. My favorite genres included fantasy and detectives, so I guess it formed my taste when I started writing my own stories.
Born in Russia, I immigrated to Canada in 2014. Here I faced multiple challenges including building my own life from scratch and figuring out what career path would let me use my full potential. My searches led me to feminist studies in college and volunteering in female support groups. There, my experience slowly formed into ideas of my fantasy series Two Worlds where females shape the sphere of justice using their natural talents.
Today I live on the East coast of Canada together with my husband Alex and my bunny Boris.
Basic Details:
Book Title: The Academy: Detective Stories
Subtitle: (Two Worlds: Magic Squad Book 1)
Author: Lubov Leonova
Genre: (Science) Fiction
Part of a series? Yes
Order in series: 1
Best read after earlier books in series? N/A
Available: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/6...
Overall score:
I scored this book 4/5
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Short Summary of the book:
In a world where magic is the norm, it’s abnormal to be without powers. Two young women attend the academy to become guardians. Both have a traumatic past and both need to prove their worth as the first females accepted. Will they succeed and become the detectives they wish to be? And will their love be accepted?
What I liked about the book:
The book is action-filled, with heartache, intrigue and deception.
What I didn’t like about the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My favourite bits in the book:
I enjoyed the entire book.
My least favourite bits in the book:
The book was enjoyable in its entirety.
Any further books in the series? Any more planned by this author?
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I look forward to reading more.
What books could this be compared to and why?
This is a fiction/fantasy novel.
Recommendation:
In summary, I would recommend this book to the following readers:
Children No
Young Adult Yes
Adult Yes
If you like stories about magic and intrigue, this book may be the book for you.
I look forward to reading more by this author.
Book Description by Author:
Elisa applies to the Academy to become a detective. To her own surprise, she is not the only woman studying here. Jackie and Elisa quickly become best friends and fall in love with each other.
Together, they dream of stopping the local gang who sells drugs to teenagers. However, they are surrounded by male guardians, which means that their mistake might cost them a career.
Will they manage to catch a criminal boss without ruining their reputation?
About the Author:
I was always in love with reading. My favorite genres included fantasy and detectives, so I guess it formed my taste when I started writing my own stories.
Born in Russia, I immigrated to Canada in 2014. Here I faced multiple challenges including building my own life from scratch and figuring out what career path would let me use my full potential. My searches led me to feminist studies in college and volunteering in female support groups. There, my experience slowly formed into ideas of my fantasy series Two Worlds where females shape the sphere of justice using their natural talents.
Today I live on the East coast of Canada together with my husband Alex and my bunny Boris.
March 18, 2023
What first looks like a standard “student joins a magical school” plot goes off into new, unexpected directions. In a mystical world where most people are born with a supernatural Gift, four detectives-in-training learn to master their powers so they can become Guardians.
Let’s get this out of the way - it appears that English isn’t the author’s first language, and therefore some of the sentences are phrased in a stilted way that some readers will find off-putting. However, once you get used to the writing style, it’s an engaging story. My suggestion is to give it a chance, the payoff is worth it.
It’s a thoroughly entertaining tale, full of themes of unrequited love and overcoming emotional trauma. It effortlessly shifts from magic to mundane. One chapter has our heroes stealing dragon eggs from a cave, and a few chapters later the story has morphed into a police procedural. The book contains powerful messages about gender equality, gay rights, class warfare, and economic disparity. There’s plenty of excitement, as the characters go on secret missions to infiltrate illegal drug dens and underground fighting arenas. Sometimes it’s fun, sometimes it’s serious, and sometimes it’s downright heartbreaking.
I really appreciate the well-thought-out worldbuilding. You can tell that a lot of time was put into figuring out how different types of magic interact with each other. The world itself is unfair and full of sexism, with obvious parallels to real life. I didn’t always agree with the main characters’ decisions, but they have well-defined personality quirks that get them into a lot of interesting predicaments.
It took me a few chapters to warm up to this story, but once I did, I really enjoyed it. I was thoroughly invested by the end, and I think you will be, too.
Let’s get this out of the way - it appears that English isn’t the author’s first language, and therefore some of the sentences are phrased in a stilted way that some readers will find off-putting. However, once you get used to the writing style, it’s an engaging story. My suggestion is to give it a chance, the payoff is worth it.
It’s a thoroughly entertaining tale, full of themes of unrequited love and overcoming emotional trauma. It effortlessly shifts from magic to mundane. One chapter has our heroes stealing dragon eggs from a cave, and a few chapters later the story has morphed into a police procedural. The book contains powerful messages about gender equality, gay rights, class warfare, and economic disparity. There’s plenty of excitement, as the characters go on secret missions to infiltrate illegal drug dens and underground fighting arenas. Sometimes it’s fun, sometimes it’s serious, and sometimes it’s downright heartbreaking.
I really appreciate the well-thought-out worldbuilding. You can tell that a lot of time was put into figuring out how different types of magic interact with each other. The world itself is unfair and full of sexism, with obvious parallels to real life. I didn’t always agree with the main characters’ decisions, but they have well-defined personality quirks that get them into a lot of interesting predicaments.
It took me a few chapters to warm up to this story, but once I did, I really enjoyed it. I was thoroughly invested by the end, and I think you will be, too.
November 9, 2025
I’ve always loved fantasy books that come with a map for the readers. Even though I sometimes struggle when a character starts describing the geography of a place and I have to keep flipping back to the map page, I still enjoy having one. Though I don’t mind much if there isn’t one.
So, the story starts off with no fuss — right away we’re shown one of the key characters, Jackie, in the middle of her calling. It becomes clear what she’s striving for and how she’s going to pursue it. In the opening, she’s seen in what looks like a final, decisive interview about whether she’ll be approved as a Guardian. And through her brief exchange with Don, the interviewer, we get a glimpse that this ties back to her past, which seems to be the reason behind her determination to become a Guardian and dedicate her life to that purpose.
The adventures presented in this book come in varying degrees of difficulty (which I appreciate, really, because wouldn’t it be unrealistic if every single one were either too easy or unbearably high-stakes? The latter, I imagine, would be quite exhausting to follow sincerely). In any case, it feels as though we’re being led up a staircase, one adventure after another. Some are delightfully simple, others moderately challenging, and a few carry such pressing stakes that you can’t help but hold your breath, waiting to see what actions the main characters might take to get themselves out of the pinch.
But I do find it a bit regrettable that the relationships in this book develop almost too quickly, both the romantic and platonic ones. I believe that bonds with real depth need a few moments where we, as readers, can see how that connection first shows potential, how it gradually takes shape, and what the people involved do to sustain or strengthen it depending on the challenges they face along the way. That way, the growth of their relationships would feel more genuine, and, ultimately, more believable.
So, the story starts off with no fuss — right away we’re shown one of the key characters, Jackie, in the middle of her calling. It becomes clear what she’s striving for and how she’s going to pursue it. In the opening, she’s seen in what looks like a final, decisive interview about whether she’ll be approved as a Guardian. And through her brief exchange with Don, the interviewer, we get a glimpse that this ties back to her past, which seems to be the reason behind her determination to become a Guardian and dedicate her life to that purpose.
The adventures presented in this book come in varying degrees of difficulty (which I appreciate, really, because wouldn’t it be unrealistic if every single one were either too easy or unbearably high-stakes? The latter, I imagine, would be quite exhausting to follow sincerely). In any case, it feels as though we’re being led up a staircase, one adventure after another. Some are delightfully simple, others moderately challenging, and a few carry such pressing stakes that you can’t help but hold your breath, waiting to see what actions the main characters might take to get themselves out of the pinch.
But I do find it a bit regrettable that the relationships in this book develop almost too quickly, both the romantic and platonic ones. I believe that bonds with real depth need a few moments where we, as readers, can see how that connection first shows potential, how it gradually takes shape, and what the people involved do to sustain or strengthen it depending on the challenges they face along the way. That way, the growth of their relationships would feel more genuine, and, ultimately, more believable.
April 28, 2024
Thank you to Booktasters for an e-copy of this novel!
Sadly, the writing didn't work for me in this one.
I was excited to dive into this after reading the synopsis. I mean, detective stories within a fantasy world? Mysteries and Fantasy are my jam! But as soon as I read the first page, I knew from the start that I would struggle with this one.
The clunky writing structure, awkward dialogue, and odd descriptions are evident from the first page. This book attempts to be mature, but the personalities and attitudes of the characters make this story feel extremely juvenile, their motivations being incredibly simplistic and naïve. The writing is also guilty of committing the cardinal sin of "telling instead of showing." The characters will say another character is mean or vulnerable, but the writing does nothing to indicate such traits; or rather than showing the severity of a moment, it is instead told. It does little to help connect to the characters or show me why I should care about their goals and strife.
There's also a lack of nuance in the themes regarding feminism. Reading this book reminded me of why I didn't like A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid, which is that both these stories are incapable of showing the complexities of misogyny women face, and only convey surface-level sexism by having all the men in the story be explicitly gross and having them belittle the abilities of female characters. It fails to show any dimension to the characters when the story essentially paints them as either only black or white.
It's a shame this book didn't work for me. The premise seemed intriguing, but unfortunately I will be dnf-ing this one.
Sadly, the writing didn't work for me in this one.
I was excited to dive into this after reading the synopsis. I mean, detective stories within a fantasy world? Mysteries and Fantasy are my jam! But as soon as I read the first page, I knew from the start that I would struggle with this one.
The clunky writing structure, awkward dialogue, and odd descriptions are evident from the first page. This book attempts to be mature, but the personalities and attitudes of the characters make this story feel extremely juvenile, their motivations being incredibly simplistic and naïve. The writing is also guilty of committing the cardinal sin of "telling instead of showing." The characters will say another character is mean or vulnerable, but the writing does nothing to indicate such traits; or rather than showing the severity of a moment, it is instead told. It does little to help connect to the characters or show me why I should care about their goals and strife.
There's also a lack of nuance in the themes regarding feminism. Reading this book reminded me of why I didn't like A Study in Drowning by Ava Reid, which is that both these stories are incapable of showing the complexities of misogyny women face, and only convey surface-level sexism by having all the men in the story be explicitly gross and having them belittle the abilities of female characters. It fails to show any dimension to the characters when the story essentially paints them as either only black or white.
It's a shame this book didn't work for me. The premise seemed intriguing, but unfortunately I will be dnf-ing this one.
August 9, 2025
Eight Compelling Stories in One Book
Elisa Palmer is a newbie Guardian cadet, but not only – she is among the first women ever allowed to take this role. Surely, she is full of optimism. After all, solving tricky investigations is her passion.
Will she succeed?
I really liked the way the author made her path challenging – starting with constant mocking of her male peers and taming her own Gift (she can create Lightnings but has a hard time controlling it, often shooting her friends with electricity.) Another challenge – being a queer, doesn’t make her life easier, especially when she falls in love with her close friend, Jackie.
The plot starts with plotting a secret mission – Elisa and Jackie must work undercover to catch the criminal boss who is responsible for spreading a deadly drug in the Kingdom capital. Though it sounds like a hard task, they have time to prepare for it while studying in the Academy. The plot then shifts to a few different journeys where Elisa, Jackie, and their new friends learn and become more skilled. The group of four gets into various troubles, but it brings them closer. I was glad that the mid-chapters, and the ending revolved around the main investigation with stopping the drug dealers and catching the villain.
If you like mysteries and magic, you’ll certainly must read this book!
Elisa Palmer is a newbie Guardian cadet, but not only – she is among the first women ever allowed to take this role. Surely, she is full of optimism. After all, solving tricky investigations is her passion.
Will she succeed?
I really liked the way the author made her path challenging – starting with constant mocking of her male peers and taming her own Gift (she can create Lightnings but has a hard time controlling it, often shooting her friends with electricity.) Another challenge – being a queer, doesn’t make her life easier, especially when she falls in love with her close friend, Jackie.
The plot starts with plotting a secret mission – Elisa and Jackie must work undercover to catch the criminal boss who is responsible for spreading a deadly drug in the Kingdom capital. Though it sounds like a hard task, they have time to prepare for it while studying in the Academy. The plot then shifts to a few different journeys where Elisa, Jackie, and their new friends learn and become more skilled. The group of four gets into various troubles, but it brings them closer. I was glad that the mid-chapters, and the ending revolved around the main investigation with stopping the drug dealers and catching the villain.
If you like mysteries and magic, you’ll certainly must read this book!
March 12, 2023
"The Academy" is part of a series of short stories about female guardians. It was inspired by the history of feminism and is an inspirational read, especially for young women. The story includes crime investigations in a magical setting and many intriguing plot twists. The characters are all well-written, well-developed, interesting and likeable with their own unique complexities, pros/cons and characteristics. Elisa, the protagonist, comes to Guardian Academy prepared to become the best detective and make the world a better, safer place. What she (and the readers) don't expect at all is all the twists and turns to get there or the love she finds in another girl, Jackie, along the way. This is a low-fantasy novel that is inspiring, enjoyable and LGBTQ-friendly. It includes lots of action, romance, mystery, and suspense. It is written in a reader-friendly and easy-to-follow way and is very mentally stimulating, especially for fans of that genre. There are no boring moments within the story. The pace is neither too fast nor too slow. The world-building is nice. Overall, it could be the perfect bedtime story or a great gift to lovers of low-fantasy. Fans of series like "Harry Potter" and "Shadow and Bone" will find this read quite interesting and entertaining.
October 25, 2025
A Strong 4 Stars
I really enjoyed The Academy: Detective Stories by Lubov Leonova. Its short-story structure made it an engaging read, and as someone who loves a sapphic magical tale, it absolutely delivered. The episodic format kept things lively and fresh, and the blend of magic, emotion, and character work was lovely. It’s also a deeply feminist-forward book, centering women’s power, connection, and self-determination in a way that feels both intentional and charming.
My only hesitation with this book is that the prose can feel a little formal or unusual at times, likely because English isn’t the author’s first language. Once I adjusted to the rhythm though, I ceased to notice it and might even say the style became part of the book’s charm. Still, readers who prefer a more familiar cadence might balk.
Overall, this is a rich, imaginative read for anyone who enjoys women-loving-women stories, academic fantasy settings, and inventive structure. A strong 4 stars.
I really enjoyed The Academy: Detective Stories by Lubov Leonova. Its short-story structure made it an engaging read, and as someone who loves a sapphic magical tale, it absolutely delivered. The episodic format kept things lively and fresh, and the blend of magic, emotion, and character work was lovely. It’s also a deeply feminist-forward book, centering women’s power, connection, and self-determination in a way that feels both intentional and charming.
My only hesitation with this book is that the prose can feel a little formal or unusual at times, likely because English isn’t the author’s first language. Once I adjusted to the rhythm though, I ceased to notice it and might even say the style became part of the book’s charm. Still, readers who prefer a more familiar cadence might balk.
Overall, this is a rich, imaginative read for anyone who enjoys women-loving-women stories, academic fantasy settings, and inventive structure. A strong 4 stars.
October 30, 2025
A Dawn Dragon’s Era? Count me in!
This book nicely surprised me by introducing the dragons into the plot. When I was reading the first trilogy, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of the magic system and the way the author depicts nature, like the tree bark that glows in the night. The only thing that I felt amiss was the dragons. So, imagine my astonishment when Elisa and her friends embarked on a quest to steal a few eggs for the first dragon’s farm!
Besides the presence of the dragons, there is an elegant writing style and a mystery that kept me guessing until the very end.
All the characters – Jackie, Elisa, Theo, and Urchin are so different. However, their differences make them such a good team! With Elisa’s grumpiness and Theo’s sarcastic jokes, Urchin’s attempts to bring peace into the team look almost comical. Add a thinkative, empathic Jackie, and you’ll get an unforgettable combo that will make your reading enjoyable!
This book nicely surprised me by introducing the dragons into the plot. When I was reading the first trilogy, I couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of the magic system and the way the author depicts nature, like the tree bark that glows in the night. The only thing that I felt amiss was the dragons. So, imagine my astonishment when Elisa and her friends embarked on a quest to steal a few eggs for the first dragon’s farm!
Besides the presence of the dragons, there is an elegant writing style and a mystery that kept me guessing until the very end.
All the characters – Jackie, Elisa, Theo, and Urchin are so different. However, their differences make them such a good team! With Elisa’s grumpiness and Theo’s sarcastic jokes, Urchin’s attempts to bring peace into the team look almost comical. Add a thinkative, empathic Jackie, and you’ll get an unforgettable combo that will make your reading enjoyable!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews