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Disgraced Magic #1
The Sight of Flames
Four hundred years ago, my ancestor led an uprising against the Witch’s Council.
And failed miserably.
Now her descendants and those of her supporters must serve as Wardens to help protect witch-kind, though we’re relegated to being second best and the first ones thrown into danger. The Disgraced, as we’re called, are meant to suck it up and be grateful.
But there’s too much of my ancestor in me to bow to any witch, no matter that I’m Disgraced and an omega. When I enroll in war college to learn to do my duty as a Disgraced Warden and witch omega, I have a feeling that I’m not going to be very popular with my superiors. Let alone any other alphas that cross my path.
To make things worse for everyone an old enemy has returned to hunt us, and whispers of unrest are circulating like the witch plague.
I may be Disgraced, an omega, and the last of my line, but I’m not going to just roll over and accept my fate. Not for the council, a coven, or anyone else.
The Sight of Flames is the first in the Disgraced Magic series. It’s a witchy omegaverse RH/poly romance where the main character and her coven never have to choose.
And failed miserably.
Now her descendants and those of her supporters must serve as Wardens to help protect witch-kind, though we’re relegated to being second best and the first ones thrown into danger. The Disgraced, as we’re called, are meant to suck it up and be grateful.
But there’s too much of my ancestor in me to bow to any witch, no matter that I’m Disgraced and an omega. When I enroll in war college to learn to do my duty as a Disgraced Warden and witch omega, I have a feeling that I’m not going to be very popular with my superiors. Let alone any other alphas that cross my path.
To make things worse for everyone an old enemy has returned to hunt us, and whispers of unrest are circulating like the witch plague.
I may be Disgraced, an omega, and the last of my line, but I’m not going to just roll over and accept my fate. Not for the council, a coven, or anyone else.
The Sight of Flames is the first in the Disgraced Magic series. It’s a witchy omegaverse RH/poly romance where the main character and her coven never have to choose.
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2022
151 people are currently reading
592 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Merlin
44 books2,061 followersAJ Merlin would rather write epic love stories than live them. I mean, who wants to limit themselves to only falling in love once? She is obsessed with dark fantasy, true crime, and also dogs. From serial killers to voyeurs all the way down to the devil himself, AJ's specialty is in writing irredeemable heroes who somehow still manage to captivate their heroines (and her readers).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
August 8, 2022
The Sight of Flames had everything I love in a fantasy novel, plus everything I Iove in a bully reverse harem book. This book literally combined the best of everything I love to read with a kicka$$ heroine and a fantastic plot! I'm really looking forward to what's coming up in the next book.
Arsena, or Sen, as she prefered to be called by her friends, had the weight of her ancestors on her shoulders ever since her birth. Not only does she look just like her great, so many greats ancestor, but she also possessed her magic. Suffice to say with both of those attributes people tended to give her a wide berth, but when it was time to attend Citadel, sort of like a school for witches, Arsena knew she wouldn't have the best of times, but she pulled up her big girl britches and kicked butt time and again.
Arsena was nothing short of amazing. Her spirit for not putting up for any crap and standing up for the little guy was comending. She herself was put into the category of lesser than, but she refused to stay there, even when she knew her heritage made it harder for her. The friends she made, which became extremely important to her in the long run, which I won't give away, because a lot of the story is who gathers around her and it's sooooooo good and angsty, but I adored those that chose to stay by her side.
The fantasy part of this story had great twists. Not only are the witches gifted with fantastic powers, but their basic, earth, wind, fire and water powers are wrapped up in so much more. Those skills made the book exciting, adventuresome and even a little nerve wracking at times. I won't give away what those powers were, but wow!!! It made for great reading.
This is only the first book in the series and it does end on a cliffhanger just as the story was really taking off. I can't wait to jump back in and see where they all go and how everyone gets along.
Arsena, or Sen, as she prefered to be called by her friends, had the weight of her ancestors on her shoulders ever since her birth. Not only does she look just like her great, so many greats ancestor, but she also possessed her magic. Suffice to say with both of those attributes people tended to give her a wide berth, but when it was time to attend Citadel, sort of like a school for witches, Arsena knew she wouldn't have the best of times, but she pulled up her big girl britches and kicked butt time and again.
Arsena was nothing short of amazing. Her spirit for not putting up for any crap and standing up for the little guy was comending. She herself was put into the category of lesser than, but she refused to stay there, even when she knew her heritage made it harder for her. The friends she made, which became extremely important to her in the long run, which I won't give away, because a lot of the story is who gathers around her and it's sooooooo good and angsty, but I adored those that chose to stay by her side.
The fantasy part of this story had great twists. Not only are the witches gifted with fantastic powers, but their basic, earth, wind, fire and water powers are wrapped up in so much more. Those skills made the book exciting, adventuresome and even a little nerve wracking at times. I won't give away what those powers were, but wow!!! It made for great reading.
This is only the first book in the series and it does end on a cliffhanger just as the story was really taking off. I can't wait to jump back in and see where they all go and how everyone gets along.
November 14, 2022
This isn't the first time I've come across ABO dynamics in witches (see Knot That Kind of Girl), but I think in this instance, it was superfluous and didn't add significant details in the relationship dynamics that could have been written off as normal personalities.
I found the academy setting contrived, and the characters introduced developed very shallowly. The fated mate insta-lust, especially with Zephyr, was much too fast-burn for my taste, and the fact that most of the characters didn't even hear about the concept of fated mates in witches when they were already 20+ years old was quite illogical IMO. Even if it was true that only high society witches openly knew about it, the common witch should have also been able to figure out of its existence as surely it couldn't be that rare considering the FMC Arsena's luck in finding so many randomly in just one academy setting.
The petty academy jealousy was pretty immature, and there were so many characters and concepts introduced that nothing was very fleshed out well. The fact that these initiates only got two months of training before being sent out to hunt witch hunters was a little absurd when many of them didn't even know how to use their magic before being conscripted or volunteered to join the warden ranks at their age.
While I have enjoyed many other paranormal books by this author, this one didn't quite work out for me, and I don't plan on reading any other releases in the series.
I found the academy setting contrived, and the characters introduced developed very shallowly. The fated mate insta-lust, especially with Zephyr, was much too fast-burn for my taste, and the fact that most of the characters didn't even hear about the concept of fated mates in witches when they were already 20+ years old was quite illogical IMO. Even if it was true that only high society witches openly knew about it, the common witch should have also been able to figure out of its existence as surely it couldn't be that rare considering the FMC Arsena's luck in finding so many randomly in just one academy setting.
The petty academy jealousy was pretty immature, and there were so many characters and concepts introduced that nothing was very fleshed out well. The fact that these initiates only got two months of training before being sent out to hunt witch hunters was a little absurd when many of them didn't even know how to use their magic before being conscripted or volunteered to join the warden ranks at their age.
While I have enjoyed many other paranormal books by this author, this one didn't quite work out for me, and I don't plan on reading any other releases in the series.
August 21, 2022
Rating: ☆☆☆☆ Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
Angst: 💣💣💣 Plot: 📚📚📚📚📚
Cliffhanger? ✅️
Do I recommend? ✅️
Tropes: omegaverse, reverse harem, PNR, witches with elemental powers, fated mates
Welcome to a story of witches who are alpha, beta or omega with elemental powers coming together in an addictive and layered plot. Read carefully or you could miss something important. Arsena's bloodline leads back to a troublesome ancestor who led a revolt against the Witch’s Council and failed. As family before her, Sen pays for her ancestor's transgressions. The Disgraced are made up of that bloodline and are looked down upon by other witches. As she begins war college, she already has quite a few odds against her but don't count her out because she is bada$$. As she learns how to protect herself and fellow witches, an old enemy is hunting them and unrest is quickly spreading. One thing is for sure, this girl will not go down without a fight.
I don't if you have heard of the show "Motherland: Fort Salem" but as I read this story, I kept thinking about this show. The plot was very intriguing and definitely served as a page-turner. The world development was heavily involved in this first book of a new series. But I found myself having to process too much information and getting a little confused when I evidently missed something, which is why I didn't give five stars. Other than that, I loved it. I especially loved Sen. Not only did she have my body type but she was strong, feisty and protective of those around her. If you love these tropes, then I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
Angst: 💣💣💣 Plot: 📚📚📚📚📚
Cliffhanger? ✅️
Do I recommend? ✅️
Tropes: omegaverse, reverse harem, PNR, witches with elemental powers, fated mates
Welcome to a story of witches who are alpha, beta or omega with elemental powers coming together in an addictive and layered plot. Read carefully or you could miss something important. Arsena's bloodline leads back to a troublesome ancestor who led a revolt against the Witch’s Council and failed. As family before her, Sen pays for her ancestor's transgressions. The Disgraced are made up of that bloodline and are looked down upon by other witches. As she begins war college, she already has quite a few odds against her but don't count her out because she is bada$$. As she learns how to protect herself and fellow witches, an old enemy is hunting them and unrest is quickly spreading. One thing is for sure, this girl will not go down without a fight.
I don't if you have heard of the show "Motherland: Fort Salem" but as I read this story, I kept thinking about this show. The plot was very intriguing and definitely served as a page-turner. The world development was heavily involved in this first book of a new series. But I found myself having to process too much information and getting a little confused when I evidently missed something, which is why I didn't give five stars. Other than that, I loved it. I especially loved Sen. Not only did she have my body type but she was strong, feisty and protective of those around her. If you love these tropes, then I highly recommend this read. This is my honest opinion, freely given.
January 2, 2023
Rating: 3.8 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️🌶️ (not super detailed, and there’s a lack of build up).
Tropes: academy, RH, paranormal, witches, slight enemy to lovers with one MMC
This was a good start to the series. I like how badass the FMC is. I want to understand more about the MMCs and I want more dialogue. The sex scenes are abrupt and while hot, a bit underdeveloped. Slight MM although I anticipate that will pick up. I was confused on the addition of the omegaverse element to this. I think it’s unique but unsure it was necessary.
The FMC is a disgraced witch forced to serve in a witch military for 72 years because her ancestor tried to overthrow the witch council. She is the spitting image of her ancestor and everyone hates her because of this. Although, our FMC isn’t going to cower or let others be bullied by the high witches. The witches are also supposed to form covens, but our girl doesn’t want to give up her leadership position just because she’s an omega.
I’m kicking myself for starting an unfinished series because I want to see what happens and hate waiting.
Spice: 2.5/5 🌶️🌶️ (not super detailed, and there’s a lack of build up).
Tropes: academy, RH, paranormal, witches, slight enemy to lovers with one MMC
This was a good start to the series. I like how badass the FMC is. I want to understand more about the MMCs and I want more dialogue. The sex scenes are abrupt and while hot, a bit underdeveloped. Slight MM although I anticipate that will pick up. I was confused on the addition of the omegaverse element to this. I think it’s unique but unsure it was necessary.
The FMC is a disgraced witch forced to serve in a witch military for 72 years because her ancestor tried to overthrow the witch council. She is the spitting image of her ancestor and everyone hates her because of this. Although, our FMC isn’t going to cower or let others be bullied by the high witches. The witches are also supposed to form covens, but our girl doesn’t want to give up her leadership position just because she’s an omega.
I’m kicking myself for starting an unfinished series because I want to see what happens and hate waiting.
September 12, 2022
I've gone off of the academy trope, so this one took a while to get into. Zephyr and Aries, made the story with their antics. Gotta love the upbeat mischief maker and mind reading mystery guys. I'll give the next one a go, because I'm curious to see if it'll go how I think it will.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 7, 2022
I think AJ Merlin is growing as an author and this story gives you more feels than all her other ones (my personal opinion). This is a unique take on omegaverse with style...there are alpha, beta, and omega witches that go to this academy to become a warden. They are to protect other witches from the humans, witch hunters, and rouge witches that do not follow the rules. This is all from one POV, the fmc named Arsena that goes by Sen. This is a rh and I think she has her full "coven" (all her men) by the end of book one. I would not complain if more were added! I tend to speed read, and at times I missed important words that changed situations which caused me to go back and re-read concepts because I was confused how things happened. There are times where I would have preferred a back story and not after the fact that she met someone important/rare/scary afterwards. I understand that she was sheltered, but sometimes I am just and confused as she is. I enjoyed this book and it is a great start to the first in the series. This is a slower burn book because there is more of a back story here. However, it did pick up towards the end. I will be reading the next one for sure!
August 12, 2022
PNR💣omgeaverse💣magic💣academia💣RH💣Spice 💣
First off, A hot ass badass curvy dark haired babe as a female mc !!yes please I die . I've never read much books with curvaceous female mc. It was awe inspiring it made me feel seen as a cuvy bodied woman! And I loved that they never make a big deal about it.
Second off .. a no shit taking Arsena!! Sis does not tolerate any mouthing off at her . A bombshell ! A queen!!🧎♀️
Overall I was getting so many vibes from the book in the best way possible.
It was giving vampire academy ,shadow hunters, Winx culb(series).... stranger things ( that one part in the woods.... all that was in my head was Chrissy wake upppp)
I was completely lost for most of the book . Not in a bad way . You just really never know what's going on until the ending( AND THAT ENDING!!!) . Which is how I was for the first book of crescent city. I love the evolution of the magic through the book ,Specifically Sens❤️🔥
AJ Merlin !!!excuse meeeèee . But you sure know how to write male character cuz why was I weak for every single one of them !!!
Zephyr , Lore, Zayire🧎♀️🧎♀️🧎♀️🧎♀️
And Lir gave me all the feels cuz I'm always down for a broody mood tall dark and handsome dude!!!
I've never been a fan of RH but by this book!!I'm sold . I loved how it was written ! And I loved Sens confidence in her sexuality!
My first AJ Merlin read and I loved it!
fast and easy read ! Can't wait for the next book😍
First off, A hot ass badass curvy dark haired babe as a female mc !!yes please I die . I've never read much books with curvaceous female mc. It was awe inspiring it made me feel seen as a cuvy bodied woman! And I loved that they never make a big deal about it.
Second off .. a no shit taking Arsena!! Sis does not tolerate any mouthing off at her . A bombshell ! A queen!!🧎♀️
Overall I was getting so many vibes from the book in the best way possible.
It was giving vampire academy ,shadow hunters, Winx culb(series).... stranger things ( that one part in the woods.... all that was in my head was Chrissy wake upppp)
I was completely lost for most of the book . Not in a bad way . You just really never know what's going on until the ending( AND THAT ENDING!!!) . Which is how I was for the first book of crescent city. I love the evolution of the magic through the book ,Specifically Sens❤️🔥
AJ Merlin !!!excuse meeeèee . But you sure know how to write male character cuz why was I weak for every single one of them !!!
Zephyr , Lore, Zayire🧎♀️🧎♀️🧎♀️🧎♀️
And Lir gave me all the feels cuz I'm always down for a broody mood tall dark and handsome dude!!!
I've never been a fan of RH but by this book!!I'm sold . I loved how it was written ! And I loved Sens confidence in her sexuality!
My first AJ Merlin read and I loved it!
fast and easy read ! Can't wait for the next book😍
December 17, 2023
The premise and plot are interesting. I'm totally inveested with it. The characters were also promising— this series in general.
My only issue is that the writing tends to be forgettable, and that really puts me off as I have to go back on the previous page.
Other than that, the romance isn't well developed yet, although there's already some hit and some progress with one of the leads, I think I could have liked it more if there's more of it.
My only issue is that the writing tends to be forgettable, and that really puts me off as I have to go back on the previous page.
Other than that, the romance isn't well developed yet, although there's already some hit and some progress with one of the leads, I think I could have liked it more if there's more of it.
September 5, 2022
3.75 rounded up stars
This book starts out pretty slow and takes a long time to build up to anything. However, once it does, at about 60%, the story gets really good.
Can't wait for book 2
* Slight spoilers? *
Things I might alter if I could:
1. Neither she nor the men in her coven are very strong. At the very end of the book her powers enhance (a little) and she adds a stronger member, but it's frustrating to wait for that to happen. Maybe I'm just used to alphas surrounding an omega and not other omegas and betas.
2. The designation of omega was a little bit of a joke. There was nothing that really showed us she was an omega and the omegaverse didn't really come into play either. It's like we were told that people had these designations, but were never shown anything. Seriously has nothing, at this point, to do with the plot.
This book starts out pretty slow and takes a long time to build up to anything. However, once it does, at about 60%, the story gets really good.
Can't wait for book 2
* Slight spoilers? *
Things I might alter if I could:
1. Neither she nor the men in her coven are very strong. At the very end of the book her powers enhance (a little) and she adds a stronger member, but it's frustrating to wait for that to happen. Maybe I'm just used to alphas surrounding an omega and not other omegas and betas.
2. The designation of omega was a little bit of a joke. There was nothing that really showed us she was an omega and the omegaverse didn't really come into play either. It's like we were told that people had these designations, but were never shown anything. Seriously has nothing, at this point, to do with the plot.
August 10, 2022
This was my first read by this author, the blurb sounded really good, I love a PNR read but as a rule I stay away from 'witch' reads, they just don't really appeal - but this one was calling to me - and I'm glad I listened as I really enjoyed it, it was a fun read!
So this book is a Why Choose with a mixture of paranormal (witches & magic) / academy / light bullying / omegaverse / fated mates / reverse harem with some light MM, MFM, FF.
Set in quite a different world with Alpha, Beta and Omega witches who are sent to an academy to become wardens, their ultimate aim being to protect witches from humans, witch hunters and rogue witches. All the witches come from different families each with their own special trait. Sen is the last of her family line of witches, the Graves, which have been classed as 'disgraced' due an issue with one of her ancestors, who Sen looks remarkably like. She has always been an outcast due to this and is not looking forward to going to the Citadel.
As expected, all the kids and the teachers know who she is due to her family name and her appearance, she is not treated well by a lot of people, but she is a strong person and refuses to back down and allow them to step all over her. In fact she becomes a saviour to other bullied 'disgraced' kids, standing up to the bullies.
She meets some new friends with 2 male witches who she immediately bonds with and who make her feel strange in ways she has never felt before. She is also strongly drawn to an alpha male witch, but they are not friends when they first meet, and he is grumpy and wants nothing to do with Sen.
I loved the world building, watching the characters grow and learn. The different magics that are used are very inventive and keep the read exciting. There are lots of different characters popping up as we learn just how powerful Sen could be. There were lots of plot twists, drama, and mystery along the way. I really enjoyed this even though it is quite a different type of PNR than I usually read. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from this series.
So this book is a Why Choose with a mixture of paranormal (witches & magic) / academy / light bullying / omegaverse / fated mates / reverse harem with some light MM, MFM, FF.
Set in quite a different world with Alpha, Beta and Omega witches who are sent to an academy to become wardens, their ultimate aim being to protect witches from humans, witch hunters and rogue witches. All the witches come from different families each with their own special trait. Sen is the last of her family line of witches, the Graves, which have been classed as 'disgraced' due an issue with one of her ancestors, who Sen looks remarkably like. She has always been an outcast due to this and is not looking forward to going to the Citadel.
As expected, all the kids and the teachers know who she is due to her family name and her appearance, she is not treated well by a lot of people, but she is a strong person and refuses to back down and allow them to step all over her. In fact she becomes a saviour to other bullied 'disgraced' kids, standing up to the bullies.
She meets some new friends with 2 male witches who she immediately bonds with and who make her feel strange in ways she has never felt before. She is also strongly drawn to an alpha male witch, but they are not friends when they first meet, and he is grumpy and wants nothing to do with Sen.
I loved the world building, watching the characters grow and learn. The different magics that are used are very inventive and keep the read exciting. There are lots of different characters popping up as we learn just how powerful Sen could be. There were lots of plot twists, drama, and mystery along the way. I really enjoyed this even though it is quite a different type of PNR than I usually read. I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from this series.
September 5, 2022
**REVIEW**
This is the first book of the series Disgraced Magic. This book completely sets the world tour about to be sucked into. This Omegaverse is mind blowing and creative! It’s very detailed and lays out the plot wonderfully!
Arsena, likes to be called Sen, is a fire witch from a disgraced bloodline. Off to college, she encounters some very accepting and not so accepting members of the school. While he mass a few friends, she slowly creates a coven without an alpha… until she’s assigned one. Fast forward, her “coven’s” finally assignment is unlike the others…
This book ends in a cliffhanger and damn I can’t wait to know what happens next!
PNR reads are a new trope for me but I really really enjoyed this world! This book includes but not limited:
🔥omegaverse
🔥witches
🔥a badass, curvy fmc
🔥elemental magic
🔥kink
🔥MM/MFM
🔥alphahole mates
This is the first book of the series Disgraced Magic. This book completely sets the world tour about to be sucked into. This Omegaverse is mind blowing and creative! It’s very detailed and lays out the plot wonderfully!
Arsena, likes to be called Sen, is a fire witch from a disgraced bloodline. Off to college, she encounters some very accepting and not so accepting members of the school. While he mass a few friends, she slowly creates a coven without an alpha… until she’s assigned one. Fast forward, her “coven’s” finally assignment is unlike the others…
This book ends in a cliffhanger and damn I can’t wait to know what happens next!
PNR reads are a new trope for me but I really really enjoyed this world! This book includes but not limited:
🔥omegaverse
🔥witches
🔥a badass, curvy fmc
🔥elemental magic
🔥kink
🔥MM/MFM
🔥alphahole mates
May 31, 2023
Just Meh.
After reading the first two pages I came back here to check the tags to see if I was mistaken when picking it up and it was a YA, nope, no YA tag.
Well, I should have stopped then. Because even if technically the FL/MLs are 21-22s, it feels and they sound and behave like they are junior pupils.
I’ve read half of it before giving up.
Asides immature characters, you have your share of plot holes, « spark »-at-first-sight and a level-surface world building.
Based on the blurb it sounded like an epic story with a badass heroine and complex characterization, well we got none of that.
It’s just the same overproduced RH in a new set up and that’s it. Nothing to write home about.
I’m out!
After reading the first two pages I came back here to check the tags to see if I was mistaken when picking it up and it was a YA, nope, no YA tag.
Well, I should have stopped then. Because even if technically the FL/MLs are 21-22s, it feels and they sound and behave like they are junior pupils.
I’ve read half of it before giving up.
Asides immature characters, you have your share of plot holes, « spark »-at-first-sight and a level-surface world building.
Based on the blurb it sounded like an epic story with a badass heroine and complex characterization, well we got none of that.
It’s just the same overproduced RH in a new set up and that’s it. Nothing to write home about.
I’m out!
June 11, 2023
Exciting
I listened via audio and I’m not over found of the boys voices but you know some people would like them.
4 star listen, I liked this fmc she’s enjoyable, feisty and full of passion.
I’m not overly found of the love interests because I can’t get my head around their relationships. I just don’t really get them.
I am looking forward to continuing this series and it ends in a great hook.
Witch series with troupe of alpha beta omega format. A little smutty but not overly so. Academy troupe but the characters start older at 21 ish which I found slightly off for first year students.
I listened via audio and I’m not over found of the boys voices but you know some people would like them.
4 star listen, I liked this fmc she’s enjoyable, feisty and full of passion.
I’m not overly found of the love interests because I can’t get my head around their relationships. I just don’t really get them.
I am looking forward to continuing this series and it ends in a great hook.
Witch series with troupe of alpha beta omega format. A little smutty but not overly so. Academy troupe but the characters start older at 21 ish which I found slightly off for first year students.
August 21, 2022
Arsena is a descendant of a Queen who led a rebellion and ‘Sen’ happens to look exactly like her. Not to mention she is a disgraced and the last which of her line. She is called to the Citadel where she must serve as all witches do as a warden, but she is different and has blue fire that no one else has. She meets some friends but it soon escalates into something more. I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one!
August 12, 2022
✨ ARC Review ✨
***
Thank you to AJ Merlin and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the ARC to review.
***
🦋RH
🦋Witches
🦋Action
🦋Badass FMC
🦋Outcast
🦋Omegaverse
🦋Cliffhanger
***
This is my first book by AJ Merlin and I really enjoyed it. The story is about witches that train to become wardens. There are all kinds of witches. Earth, Wind, Fire, and Water and each one comes with additional powers based on their bloodlines. The world building was well done. I loved the characters, especially Sen. She is strong and brave, as well as kind and sassy. Her coven is amazing and balance each other out. The story starts out as a slow burn, but the ending gets hotter and hotter. The spicy scenes are well written. I cannot wait for everyone in the coven to be involved😉. The writing is good, but there are lots of small details in each scene. I tend to speed read books and did find myself having to go back to find some of those important details. AJ Merlin also introduces a lot of people and if you aren't paying attention, you can easily end up confused. I am really looking forward to the next book.
***
⭐⭐⭐⭐
***
Thank you to AJ Merlin and Wildfire Marketing Solutions for the ARC to review.
***
🦋RH
🦋Witches
🦋Action
🦋Badass FMC
🦋Outcast
🦋Omegaverse
🦋Cliffhanger
***
This is my first book by AJ Merlin and I really enjoyed it. The story is about witches that train to become wardens. There are all kinds of witches. Earth, Wind, Fire, and Water and each one comes with additional powers based on their bloodlines. The world building was well done. I loved the characters, especially Sen. She is strong and brave, as well as kind and sassy. Her coven is amazing and balance each other out. The story starts out as a slow burn, but the ending gets hotter and hotter. The spicy scenes are well written. I cannot wait for everyone in the coven to be involved😉. The writing is good, but there are lots of small details in each scene. I tend to speed read books and did find myself having to go back to find some of those important details. AJ Merlin also introduces a lot of people and if you aren't paying attention, you can easily end up confused. I am really looking forward to the next book.
***
⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 14, 2022
Fun read. As a "Disgraced" witch, the FMC, Sen, is conscripted to serve as a Warden for 72 years upon turning 21. (Witches regularly live for 300+ years, but often Disgraced witches don't survive their entire service.) Sen has been raised outside normal witch society and rages against her fate initially. She grudgingly adjusts to life at the academy and becomes a champion against bullies. There's a fated mate aspect in putting together her harem, which is composed of male immediate friends and initial foes.
My main issue was that most (but not all) of the students, who again are ~21 years old, somehow are mostly incredibly naïve and untrained when it comes to using their magic as well as basic self defense. A main foundation of this world is how dangerous it can be to witchkind, so learning to use their magic in earlier settings (eg, high school) would make more sense. Anyhow, rant over.
Looking forward to more in this series :)
My main issue was that most (but not all) of the students, who again are ~21 years old, somehow are mostly incredibly naïve and untrained when it comes to using their magic as well as basic self defense. A main foundation of this world is how dangerous it can be to witchkind, so learning to use their magic in earlier settings (eg, high school) would make more sense. Anyhow, rant over.
Looking forward to more in this series :)
August 20, 2022
An action packed adventure of witches. This was a great read that keeps you intrigued from the start. There are lots of different character interactions that keep you guessing so you never know what to expect!Thoroughly enjoyable read!
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December 3, 2022it was okay. a bit confusing at times but generally okay. don’t know if i’ll cont.
August 14, 2022
This book is a fantastic, slow burn, world building first in a series. The book is action packed, easy to read and I couldn’t put it down. Arsena is given a rough place in life and has taken it the best she could but is learning to fight back and allowing herself to find happiness is ways she never thought she would. She is learning to embrace her skills and building what I suspect will be one of the strongest covens to have existed in a long time. I am hopeful that we get to learn more about all the guys in future books but each of the men in her harem fill a space for Arsena that balances her perfectly. I can’t wait to see how this coven shakes up the current hierarchy in their world and the fire build within their harem!
August 14, 2022
This waa so good I didn't want to stop I wanted to keep going. This is my first pnr to read by this arthur and it won't be my last. I am so hooked. This is an omegaverse of a totally different kind than I've read and I am so here for it. Arsena is what they call a Disgraced Witch due to her ancestors crimes. She's cynical , takes no crap and stands up for the one's who get bullied all with a snarky attitude. She's being called to work as a Warden for the next 72 years due to the crimes of her ancestors. She meets some hot witches while she's in training and one hot alpha. This is a slow burn with plenty of twists and turns and it does end on a cliffhanger, but don't let that stop you from one clicking it. I cannot wait for the next book, because that ending had me like wth just happened?
August 16, 2022
I really like how AJ Merlin brought together magic and omegaverse because it adds a unique element that makes it different from the many others. I really like Sen and her spirit, she does not let anyone walk all over her and is fiercely independent sometimes to her own detriment. Life has beaten her down so many times she is always on the defensive and does not know how to let people in because she has been burned so many times before. I really like the way that the academy is set up and going to the classes with the characters does not feel repetitive and kept me so captivated. I am so excited to read more about Sen and her men and see how everything turns out.
August 11, 2022
As a firm fan of PNR, omegaverse, Bully and RH romance this has everything I look for and more.
Constantly judged for her looks Sen has built one hell of a tough shell and she's sure as hell going to need it when she arrives at the Citadel. Not only is she the spitting image of her ancestor who was the cause of an uprising, but she's inherited her unique magic too.
What I love about Sen is she doesn't feel sorry for herself, she sticks up for the little guy and doesn't take crap just because it's expected of her. I'm pretty sure we've met all her guys now and I'm really hard picked to choose between them! Love the smidge of MM romance we see too.
I delightful mix of incredible world building, engaging characters and a backstory to keep you on your toes has you well and truly hooked. Add in unrest, uncertainty and an old enemy and I'm gagging for book 2
Constantly judged for her looks Sen has built one hell of a tough shell and she's sure as hell going to need it when she arrives at the Citadel. Not only is she the spitting image of her ancestor who was the cause of an uprising, but she's inherited her unique magic too.
What I love about Sen is she doesn't feel sorry for herself, she sticks up for the little guy and doesn't take crap just because it's expected of her. I'm pretty sure we've met all her guys now and I'm really hard picked to choose between them! Love the smidge of MM romance we see too.
I delightful mix of incredible world building, engaging characters and a backstory to keep you on your toes has you well and truly hooked. Add in unrest, uncertainty and an old enemy and I'm gagging for book 2
August 17, 2022
awesome beginning
Great book! I love these Types of books with witches and their covens. Not fitting in. The world building was on point . Even though sen is disgraced she still has power of flame and then some. The characters are also great in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Now I can’t wait for the next book in this series because that cliffy has me wanting more .
Great book! I love these Types of books with witches and their covens. Not fitting in. The world building was on point . Even though sen is disgraced she still has power of flame and then some. The characters are also great in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Now I can’t wait for the next book in this series because that cliffy has me wanting more .
August 11, 2022
This is a brand new series that ends in a cliffhanger, but so much happens in this book it's totally worth the read. Next book is tentatively looking for a release next month. The characters have a lot of growth and the fmc has a strong backbone. This is a sort of an omegaverse as in - it has omega / beta / alphas and packs however, as of the end of the first book, we do not have nest, heat, knots, or mating. We do have bonding (which in my opinion is mating) but it has not happened as of the end of book one and has not been alluded to.
Overall I am excited for the next book and would suggest for anyone who likes paranormal omegaverse or paranormal academy.
Overall Ratings:
Characters: 😍😍😍😍😍
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ - Slow Burn/Medium Burn
Plot: 📖📖📖📖📖
Humor: 😂😂😂😂
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall I am excited for the next book and would suggest for anyone who likes paranormal omegaverse or paranormal academy.
Overall Ratings:
Characters: 😍😍😍😍😍
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ - Slow Burn/Medium Burn
Plot: 📖📖📖📖📖
Humor: 😂😂😂😂
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
August 16, 2022
I love this book! There’s a lot to love here with Sen, she’s a great FMC who stands up for herself and others. Even though she’s got a stigma for being “disgraced” she’s not going to let people step all over her. The Citadel was a really neat setting and I love the people that eventually stand by Sen’s side. I can’t wait for more!
August 10, 2022
I love a good PNR RH book and this was a fun read by A.J. Merlin!
Tropes/Highlights
*Light bully theme (not necessarily within the harem)
*Academy vibes
*Witches and magic
*Reverse Harem
*Omegaverse/fated mates
*MM Action
Arsena is a cynical, young, witch who from birth has been labeled as one of the "Disgraced" due to a past that has nothing to do with her personally. Unfortunately, the rest of the world does not see it that way, and she called to her "mandatory" training to become a warden. Let's just say it is not a smooth transition for her, but she meets some hot witches a long the way, while trying to master her magic.
This book ends on a cliffhanger, and has left me patiently waiting to see what happens next. I enjoyed this unique take on fated mates and omegaverse type relationships, with some suspense from what is happening inside and outside of The Citadel. I recommend if you are looking for a fun, witchy, RH omegaverse that is part of series.
Tropes/Highlights
*Light bully theme (not necessarily within the harem)
*Academy vibes
*Witches and magic
*Reverse Harem
*Omegaverse/fated mates
*MM Action
Arsena is a cynical, young, witch who from birth has been labeled as one of the "Disgraced" due to a past that has nothing to do with her personally. Unfortunately, the rest of the world does not see it that way, and she called to her "mandatory" training to become a warden. Let's just say it is not a smooth transition for her, but she meets some hot witches a long the way, while trying to master her magic.
This book ends on a cliffhanger, and has left me patiently waiting to see what happens next. I enjoyed this unique take on fated mates and omegaverse type relationships, with some suspense from what is happening inside and outside of The Citadel. I recommend if you are looking for a fun, witchy, RH omegaverse that is part of series.
August 17, 2022
I enjoyed this book and am excited for the next book in this series. I definitely felt like when I was really getting into the story and where it was going, the book ended so I need the next book.
Arsena is a disgraced witch and is being forced to work as a warden for 72 years based on crimes from her ancestors. She is so strong and refuses to back down which I appreciate in a FMC. Her coven is an unique group and I’m excited to see how their relationships grow and develop. I am definitely drawn to Lir. There is just something about him. Maybe it’s the alpha attitude or his general standoffish persona but I need more of him.
This book has a little spice but I think the next book will probably have more steamy scenes as the characters develop. I would love different POVs just to see how these characters handle things. Overall good start to a new series!
Arsena is a disgraced witch and is being forced to work as a warden for 72 years based on crimes from her ancestors. She is so strong and refuses to back down which I appreciate in a FMC. Her coven is an unique group and I’m excited to see how their relationships grow and develop. I am definitely drawn to Lir. There is just something about him. Maybe it’s the alpha attitude or his general standoffish persona but I need more of him.
This book has a little spice but I think the next book will probably have more steamy scenes as the characters develop. I would love different POVs just to see how these characters handle things. Overall good start to a new series!
August 11, 2022
Now this is a series opener! We get action, suspense, romance, plot twists, RH, and a unique view of an omegaverse. I was completely enthralled by the end of chapter one, the storyline flowed exquisitely that you just had to devour more. It had a FMC, Sen, who was independent, strong, and never backed down even when she or others were at the center of issues. I really liked her for that, how could you not, I would totally love her backing my court too. And, yes, we get spicy scenes, it's a slow burn book but done so well it's worth every page. And, her men....wow, I liked them too and cannot wait to see more of them. I most definitely was left wanting more so I cannot wait for book 2, thus this book is a definite recommend in my books!
August 9, 2022
Arsena Gardner's life has been cursed since birth. Shamed and shunned by the actions of her ancestors, labeled as disgraced witch, she faces discrimination and forced service to the Citadel. Leaving her family, she faces the challenge of living up to the requirements of service avoiding the painful reminders of the past. Thrust into a world she's avoided most of her life, she's immersed into unfamiliar obligations and traditions.
This book was a great introduction into this world. The main character is a blank slate, with a chip on her shoulder and a whole lot to learn. Watching this character grow, meet allies and enemies was quite entertaining. There are twists and turns and a mystery I am looking forward to playing out.
Great introduction to a series. I look forward to what is next.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This book was a great introduction into this world. The main character is a blank slate, with a chip on her shoulder and a whole lot to learn. Watching this character grow, meet allies and enemies was quite entertaining. There are twists and turns and a mystery I am looking forward to playing out.
Great introduction to a series. I look forward to what is next.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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