What do you think?
Rate this book
Thornwood Academy #1
Never Say Die
I’m a vampire-witch hybrid with a fondness for necromancy.
Excuse me if I’m a little dead inside.
I tried to attend a human school, but they didn’t appreciate my behavior. Personally, I found biology class more interesting when the dissected animals fought back. The school didn’t.
My parents searched for somewhere new to send their deviant daughter, and doors open when your father is Dorian Blackwood. Then they close firmly behind once he dumps you inside an exclusive supernatural academy, along with instructions to become ‘a touch more amiable’.
Says the guy who spent his teen years tearing throats out. Luckily, I’ve inherited my father's sociopathic tendencies and my mother’s magical skills, a lethal yet useful combination when navigating academy life.
Thornwood Academy. Home to the elite who strive to excel—and now me, who strives to leave. Since the supernaturals revealed themselves to the world, the unluckiest human kids join the vampires and witches at Thornwood. Hopefully, the humans aren’t dissected in this biology class.
I don’t care that nobody trusts me, but when the headmaster’s son is found unalived, fingers point at Dorian’s darkling daughter. Ridiculous. I would’ve reanimated the bullying asshole and demanded he perform tricks. Such a wasted opportunity.
If I want help clearing my name, I need to become ‘a touch more amiable’ to the three guys who seem oddly fascinated by me. Somebody doesn’t want the accords between humans and supes to last, and I’m not taking the blame just because I’m a Blackwood.
Looking for an academy read with Wednesday vibes? Meet Violet Blackwood: half-vampire, half-witch, smart, sarcastic, and slightly unhinged.
Never Say Die is the first in a new supernatural academy series from LJ Swallow , author of the Nightworld Academy books. The Thornwood Academy series features a girl who isn't afraid to use her dark side, a magic school where humans mix with vampires and witches, and three guys with secrets in a town stalked by a serial killer.
Thornwood Academy is also a slow-burn romance… almost as glacial as our slightly psychotic heroine.
Scroll up and download today!
Excuse me if I’m a little dead inside.
I tried to attend a human school, but they didn’t appreciate my behavior. Personally, I found biology class more interesting when the dissected animals fought back. The school didn’t.
My parents searched for somewhere new to send their deviant daughter, and doors open when your father is Dorian Blackwood. Then they close firmly behind once he dumps you inside an exclusive supernatural academy, along with instructions to become ‘a touch more amiable’.
Says the guy who spent his teen years tearing throats out. Luckily, I’ve inherited my father's sociopathic tendencies and my mother’s magical skills, a lethal yet useful combination when navigating academy life.
Thornwood Academy. Home to the elite who strive to excel—and now me, who strives to leave. Since the supernaturals revealed themselves to the world, the unluckiest human kids join the vampires and witches at Thornwood. Hopefully, the humans aren’t dissected in this biology class.
I don’t care that nobody trusts me, but when the headmaster’s son is found unalived, fingers point at Dorian’s darkling daughter. Ridiculous. I would’ve reanimated the bullying asshole and demanded he perform tricks. Such a wasted opportunity.
If I want help clearing my name, I need to become ‘a touch more amiable’ to the three guys who seem oddly fascinated by me. Somebody doesn’t want the accords between humans and supes to last, and I’m not taking the blame just because I’m a Blackwood.
Looking for an academy read with Wednesday vibes? Meet Violet Blackwood: half-vampire, half-witch, smart, sarcastic, and slightly unhinged.
Never Say Die is the first in a new supernatural academy series from LJ Swallow , author of the Nightworld Academy books. The Thornwood Academy series features a girl who isn't afraid to use her dark side, a magic school where humans mix with vampires and witches, and three guys with secrets in a town stalked by a serial killer.
Thornwood Academy is also a slow-burn romance… almost as glacial as our slightly psychotic heroine.
Scroll up and download today!
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
1600 people are currently reading
883 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Swallow
125 books746 followersLJ Swallow is a paranormal romance and urban fantasy author who is the alter-ego of bestselling contemporary romance author Lisa Swallow.
Giving in to her dark side, LJ spends time creating worlds filled with supernatural creatures who don’t fit the norm, and heroines who are more likely to kick ass than sit on theirs.
Giving in to her dark side, LJ spends time creating worlds filled with supernatural creatures who don’t fit the norm, and heroines who are more likely to kick ass than sit on theirs.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
February 25, 2023
Wednesday Adams show?
Ok, first off, someone really loved the new Wednesday show and decided to write almost the same thing with a few different twist. But ultimately this is that freaking show. The more i read, the more aggravated I became. The lack of originality was almost a smack in the face. There is no way you wrote this and had the nerve to call this ur own? The audacity! Dnf @ 46%
Ok, first off, someone really loved the new Wednesday show and decided to write almost the same thing with a few different twist. But ultimately this is that freaking show. The more i read, the more aggravated I became. The lack of originality was almost a smack in the face. There is no way you wrote this and had the nerve to call this ur own? The audacity! Dnf @ 46%
March 3, 2023
How does anyone rate this 5 stars?
How does anyone rate this 5 stars!? This book feels like a blatant copy of the Wednesday show from Netflix with a few minor tweaks here and there. Everything feels and seems like the exact same characters. Right down to personality quirks. Not cool. Save yourself the time and watch the show on Netflix. Its a lot better.
How does anyone rate this 5 stars!? This book feels like a blatant copy of the Wednesday show from Netflix with a few minor tweaks here and there. Everything feels and seems like the exact same characters. Right down to personality quirks. Not cool. Save yourself the time and watch the show on Netflix. Its a lot better.
March 4, 2023
Content Warning: bullying, violence, death
I was in the mood for a prep school, bingeable book and picked this one up on Kindle Unlimited and this is what I thought:
+ I was reading the story and realized right away that Violet, our MC, is a dead ringer for Wednesday Adams from the show Wednesday on Netflix. And I LOVE that show. So I was enjoying Violet also since they are basically the same person, even though they look different. Violet has blue eyes I believe. Anyway so this reads like a Wednesday fanfic.
+ This is a SUPER short book, at only 212 pages – so it’s definitely bingeable, and clearly it’s a series but yeah I read this one quick.
+ I like the mystery and investigation – it keeps the story moving and once again, reminiscent of Wednesday.
~ I don’t mind Wednesday being an inspiration because I am obsessed with that show but there are too many similar things to the show. Violet investigates a murder and she sees a therapist in town – sound familiar? She even goes to the morgue just like Wednesday did and then the love triangles with the boys. Violet has a few more boys on her list but it still felt so similar to Wednesday. Violet’s whole personality is Wednesday Adams. Even her roommate – okay she’s not a werewolf, she’s a bubbly, optimistic personality though which is also reminiscent of Wednesday’s roommate in the show.
~ This is a spin-off to another series, I believe because I’m pretty sure Violet’s parents had their own series. I never read it though and I don’t think you need to read it to be able to read this one.
Why you should read it:
*you love Wednesday (on Netflix) because basically this is the book version with very few differences
*it’s quick and bingeable, entertaining
Why you might not want to read it:
*its too similar to Wednesday
My Thoughts:
Am I going to continue the series? Yes because I need more of Wednesday and can’t get any more until they release Season 2 lol…so this series will have to suffice. Do I feel like the story could have been inspired and used less of what was in the show? Definitely yes. I love a character like Wednesday, but maybe not copy the scenes from the show and the secondary characters? I’m giving it a three because I still read it in one sitting and will definitely see how this reverse harem will work out. I mean, will it? She doesn’t even like being touched! So I’m curious to see what happens in book two and I hope it’s a little more original and not follow the Wednesday show.
I was in the mood for a prep school, bingeable book and picked this one up on Kindle Unlimited and this is what I thought:
+ I was reading the story and realized right away that Violet, our MC, is a dead ringer for Wednesday Adams from the show Wednesday on Netflix. And I LOVE that show. So I was enjoying Violet also since they are basically the same person, even though they look different. Violet has blue eyes I believe. Anyway so this reads like a Wednesday fanfic.
+ This is a SUPER short book, at only 212 pages – so it’s definitely bingeable, and clearly it’s a series but yeah I read this one quick.
+ I like the mystery and investigation – it keeps the story moving and once again, reminiscent of Wednesday.
~ I don’t mind Wednesday being an inspiration because I am obsessed with that show but there are too many similar things to the show. Violet investigates a murder and she sees a therapist in town – sound familiar? She even goes to the morgue just like Wednesday did and then the love triangles with the boys. Violet has a few more boys on her list but it still felt so similar to Wednesday. Violet’s whole personality is Wednesday Adams. Even her roommate – okay she’s not a werewolf, she’s a bubbly, optimistic personality though which is also reminiscent of Wednesday’s roommate in the show.
~ This is a spin-off to another series, I believe because I’m pretty sure Violet’s parents had their own series. I never read it though and I don’t think you need to read it to be able to read this one.
Why you should read it:
*you love Wednesday (on Netflix) because basically this is the book version with very few differences
*it’s quick and bingeable, entertaining
Why you might not want to read it:
*its too similar to Wednesday
My Thoughts:
Am I going to continue the series? Yes because I need more of Wednesday and can’t get any more until they release Season 2 lol…so this series will have to suffice. Do I feel like the story could have been inspired and used less of what was in the show? Definitely yes. I love a character like Wednesday, but maybe not copy the scenes from the show and the secondary characters? I’m giving it a three because I still read it in one sitting and will definitely see how this reverse harem will work out. I mean, will it? She doesn’t even like being touched! So I’m curious to see what happens in book two and I hope it’s a little more original and not follow the Wednesday show.
January 28, 2023
Lisa's new series is about Dorian and Eloise Blackwood's hybrid daughter Violet (formerly Mia until she changed it as a toddler!). Violet has finally pushed her parents too far when she reanimated some mice in biology class. Though I find this hilarious, her parents apparently did not. They immediately cart her off Thornwood Academy (formerly one of the Nightworld Academy sites) and then daddy dearest fixes it so her rune magic won't let her leave. Ashhat. Violet has no intention of gettng comfortable here. Surely, she can manage to get herself kicked out with no problem. Unfortunately, it is not quite as easy as she had hoped. Her bubbly, popular roommate, Holly, is bad enough but the human headmaster's son Wesley is a real piece of work. Then there are the uniforms. Ugh. What is wrong with her all black attire?
Violet has spent her whole life avoiding entanglements. Her Vampire side is kept under control with medication, but her father's psychotic temper is a problem if her emotions start to ooze out. Avoiding touch helps, but some of the other students do not get the memo. Her sarcasm and total lack of empathy turn most people off, yay, but Holly isn't quite so easily dissuaded. Then there are vampire Grayson Petrescu (you might recognize that last name), Rowan Willowbrook who is a strong witch, and Leif who is a half shifter and as anxious as Violet to get out of Thornwood. All of these beings are going to play a part in Violet's saga because events start occurring that are meant to put her in a bad light. When a human is murdered and it is made to look like she did it, she knows she can't leave Thornwood until she figures out who is really to blame.
Of course, we are left in suspense since this is just the first book. Stay tuned. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
Violet has spent her whole life avoiding entanglements. Her Vampire side is kept under control with medication, but her father's psychotic temper is a problem if her emotions start to ooze out. Avoiding touch helps, but some of the other students do not get the memo. Her sarcasm and total lack of empathy turn most people off, yay, but Holly isn't quite so easily dissuaded. Then there are vampire Grayson Petrescu (you might recognize that last name), Rowan Willowbrook who is a strong witch, and Leif who is a half shifter and as anxious as Violet to get out of Thornwood. All of these beings are going to play a part in Violet's saga because events start occurring that are meant to put her in a bad light. When a human is murdered and it is made to look like she did it, she knows she can't leave Thornwood until she figures out who is really to blame.
Of course, we are left in suspense since this is just the first book. Stay tuned. I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.
April 5, 2023
3.5 Rounded up. VERY “Wednesday” heroine. Cold, stand-off-ish, quirky roommate…but I’ve been WANTING this trope ever since I watched Wednesday on Netflix. Literally have been searching, so though the similarities will put some off, I was wanting to read a book with a very cold, standoffish heroine, that can kick some tail. All boxes checked. It was slow in areas, but fine. Will be reading the second book!
February 22, 2023
Freaking obsessed
I’m so obsessed with this story. I read it in 1 sitting. I love everything about Violet. I’m still trying to figure out who is going to be in the harem. This book had me captivated from the first page and didn’t let me go.
I’m so obsessed with this story. I read it in 1 sitting. I love everything about Violet. I’m still trying to figure out who is going to be in the harem. This book had me captivated from the first page and didn’t let me go.
April 20, 2023
Two and a half stars?
Let's be blunt: this book is like the Netflix show Wednesday. Not everything, of course. But enough that the similarities are too much to ignore. Combined with the fact that Wednesday came out in November and this book came out a few months later, it looks like this was written to ride the hype train for the show, but it just has too much in common with the inspiration. The issue with writing something after you get inspired by another piece of media is that too much of the source material ends up in your story, intentional or not.
Violet was somewhat introduced in Nightworld Academy as Mia, Dorian and Eloise's daughter. Why she was renamed as Violet with a very Mary Sue explanation of "I renamed myself when I was a toddler" is just weird. Is Mia not a Female Main Character enough name? Once again, it makes it seem like this book was rushed out after a watch of Wednesday.
The guys are meh. I really don't care about any of them.
Don't care about the murder mystery, either.
Let's be blunt: this book is like the Netflix show Wednesday. Not everything, of course. But enough that the similarities are too much to ignore. Combined with the fact that Wednesday came out in November and this book came out a few months later, it looks like this was written to ride the hype train for the show, but it just has too much in common with the inspiration. The issue with writing something after you get inspired by another piece of media is that too much of the source material ends up in your story, intentional or not.
Violet was somewhat introduced in Nightworld Academy as Mia, Dorian and Eloise's daughter. Why she was renamed as Violet with a very Mary Sue explanation of "I renamed myself when I was a toddler" is just weird. Is Mia not a Female Main Character enough name? Once again, it makes it seem like this book was rushed out after a watch of Wednesday.
The guys are meh. I really don't care about any of them.
Don't care about the murder mystery, either.
April 10, 2023
Blatant rip off
It's like someone took the script to the Wednesday show, changed names, and made it more boring. I get being inspired by a character or show. I get loving an idea. But this is a very poorly done cover song. The h is droll, uninteresting and just irritating. As are the other characters. Having to continually read, read and read again how psycho the h is and how she doesn't understand or care about feelings...it's maddening.
It's like someone took the script to the Wednesday show, changed names, and made it more boring. I get being inspired by a character or show. I get loving an idea. But this is a very poorly done cover song. The h is droll, uninteresting and just irritating. As are the other characters. Having to continually read, read and read again how psycho the h is and how she doesn't understand or care about feelings...it's maddening.
October 15, 2023
Wednesday Knock Off.
Ugh couldn’t get past Violets Negative Attitude. 5 chapters in it was the same old repeat of her annoying Behavior. Like what led to this? At least give us a better background.
Ugh couldn’t get past Violets Negative Attitude. 5 chapters in it was the same old repeat of her annoying Behavior. Like what led to this? At least give us a better background.
August 6, 2025
2.5 stars
This review is based on books one thru four plus a skim of the beginning of book five.
The books are not full stories, they are installments of an on-going story, a very long drawn out on-going story with no pay-off by the end of book four. (I expect the author will keep writing these books until the cash stops flowing and then wrap it quickly, leaving all sorts of hanging threads.)
Amazing
1) I no longer traumatize others for fun.
I loved the female lead. She was Wednesday with understandable reasons and the ONLY reason I stuck with the story for two more books after the stupid start of book three (ie Good grief, Violet, why aren't you pointing out she stole it from you!).
2) The 'first base' touching and kissing was exceptionally well-done, managing to invoke romance and passion and desire.
Good
1) Half-shifter male lead was adorable. I just wanted to hug him every time he was on-page.
2) Roommate was a sweetie pie. Talk about the light in your life.
3) Violet's mother was lovely. Poised, emotionally intelligent, she could have done so much better than Violet's father.
Mixed
1) The writing started out quite competent but seriously devolved along the way to the point that I desperately wanted a hard copy and a red marker.
2) The storytelling started out smooth, charming and entertaining and then devolved into a meandering mess as the story was drawn out way too much.
3) The relationship-building started out layered, intriguing and entertaining but then became mainly the male leads trying to change the female lead into someone else thru relentless criticism and emotional manipulation.
4) Witch male lead alternated between (a) strong, dark and compelling, and (b) demanding, coercive and pretty douchy.
Bad
1) World-building was generic to poor.
2) The academy setting, outside of the library, was pretty much ignored.
3) The plot became so convoluted and contrived by the end of the third book, you needed a spread sheet to keep track of who everyone was (ie Dale and Logan), what they were (ie human as opposed to supe), which group they belonged to (ie town as opposed to academy) and their place in the story (ie victim? villain? red herring? another adult male bully?) and, most importantly, who connected to whom and why.
4) What witches? The story kept referring to 'the witches' as if they were one homogeneous group but never explained the parameters of this group. (ie were they were local, national, international, what?)
5) And I still don't understand Violet's obsession with the tiara given there were much more obvious issues, puzzles and clues to focus on... like who the witches were!!!!!
6) Vampire male lead had little characterization and was useless.
7) Violet's father was also useless. And ridiculous.
8) Every book ended on a cliff hanger which is a cheap and tacky marketing ploy.
Terrible
1) In the story, the witch male lead was treated like the main male lead and primary love interest while the other two male leads were treated like afterthoughts.
2) THERE WAS NO SMUT (which is the stupidest thing I have ever heard of for a reverse harem story).
The first two books were worth the reads for Wednesday alone.
This review is based on books one thru four plus a skim of the beginning of book five.
The books are not full stories, they are installments of an on-going story, a very long drawn out on-going story with no pay-off by the end of book four. (I expect the author will keep writing these books until the cash stops flowing and then wrap it quickly, leaving all sorts of hanging threads.)
Amazing
1) I no longer traumatize others for fun.
I loved the female lead. She was Wednesday with understandable reasons and the ONLY reason I stuck with the story for two more books after the stupid start of book three (ie Good grief, Violet, why aren't you pointing out she stole it from you!).
2) The 'first base' touching and kissing was exceptionally well-done, managing to invoke romance and passion and desire.
Good
1) Half-shifter male lead was adorable. I just wanted to hug him every time he was on-page.
2) Roommate was a sweetie pie. Talk about the light in your life.
3) Violet's mother was lovely. Poised, emotionally intelligent, she could have done so much better than Violet's father.
Mixed
1) The writing started out quite competent but seriously devolved along the way to the point that I desperately wanted a hard copy and a red marker.
2) The storytelling started out smooth, charming and entertaining and then devolved into a meandering mess as the story was drawn out way too much.
3) The relationship-building started out layered, intriguing and entertaining but then became mainly the male leads trying to change the female lead into someone else thru relentless criticism and emotional manipulation.
4) Witch male lead alternated between (a) strong, dark and compelling, and (b) demanding, coercive and pretty douchy.
Bad
1) World-building was generic to poor.
2) The academy setting, outside of the library, was pretty much ignored.
3) The plot became so convoluted and contrived by the end of the third book, you needed a spread sheet to keep track of who everyone was (ie Dale and Logan), what they were (ie human as opposed to supe), which group they belonged to (ie town as opposed to academy) and their place in the story (ie victim? villain? red herring? another adult male bully?) and, most importantly, who connected to whom and why.
4) What witches? The story kept referring to 'the witches' as if they were one homogeneous group but never explained the parameters of this group. (ie were they were local, national, international, what?)
5) And I still don't understand Violet's obsession with the tiara given there were much more obvious issues, puzzles and clues to focus on... like who the witches were!!!!!
6) Vampire male lead had little characterization and was useless.
7) Violet's father was also useless. And ridiculous.
8) Every book ended on a cliff hanger which is a cheap and tacky marketing ploy.
Terrible
1) In the story, the witch male lead was treated like the main male lead and primary love interest while the other two male leads were treated like afterthoughts.
2) THERE WAS NO SMUT (which is the stupidest thing I have ever heard of for a reverse harem story).
The first two books were worth the reads for Wednesday alone.
November 16, 2023
This book is a continuation of the night world books and the ravenhold reform books. The scary bad guy Dorian Blackwood and Elsie had a child. They kept her as secret and secluded as possible until now. Now she is attending school. She is famous and not happy about the attention. Violet, the daughter has lived in isolation with her mom and dads for years as she is a teenager and has not developed the social skills most kids learn in school. Or life. Violet, who was Mia, changed her name but I won’t spoil why. But violet ends up at the school and has to live with a human who is her opposite, has to deal with social interactions she isn’t used to and learn how to live with friends and guys interested in her. If that isn’t enough she is being framed her murder so she is obsessively trying to find the killer while dealing with with her powers/being part vampire and witch like her parent (if you read the other books you know about her parents and how much power her parent had to give to her yet I’m not sure how much she got of what yet), differences from others and learning social norms. I personally think that she is on the autism spectrum and I mean that in a nice way as half my family is on the spectrum. Poor violet doesn’t get half of what people say or do as she doesn’t understand body language, tones of voice and things like that. So she can’t tell if someone likes her or what they mean half the time but she is learning social skills slowly. There is conflict, a huge murder mystery where of course violet is blamed and has to prove her innocence. She makes friends and doesn’t even notice at first. This is a great book showing the effects of isolating a child and then releasing them into a school without warning. It is very well written, the characters are very well developed and it is tied to the other series. The book makes me want more, i need to know what happens. I loved the last two series but this one blows them out of the water. Plus you get to see the adult version of the characters from ravenhold reform as parents. Which is awesome and different. I love seeing how violet grew up as her family is different and raised her on an island. Violet is awesome and this world , characters and story are addictive and awesome. They tie in with the other books perfectly but I love violet and her friends. This is such a well written book and I need more, I want to know violet and her friends better and see what will happen. This is my new favorite series and characters!!!!!! Was amazed at how the author has tied these series together as it had to be difficult and was done flawlessly!!!!!
March 18, 2024
I loved it!
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. Welcome to Thornwood Academy. This book is part of the Nightworld Academy world. This book series is a slow-burn paranormal romance, almost as glacial as our heroine for it features a girl who isn't afraid to use her dark side, a magic school where humans mix with vampires and witches, and three guys with secrets in a town filled with murder and mystery. This is the story of Eloise and Dorian Blackwood’s child Mia who is now called Violet. She is a half-vampire, half-witch, smart, sarcastic, and slightly unhinged with a fondness for necromancy. Set many years after the events of the Nightworld Academy and the Ravenhold Academy series. She tried to attend a human school, but they didn’t appreciate her behaviour. She found biology class more interesting when the dissected animals fought back, but the school didn’t. Her parents searched for somewhere new to send their deviant daughter, and doors open when her father is Dorian Blackwood. Then they close firmly behind once he dumped her inside an exclusive supernatural academy, along with instructions to become ‘a touch more amiable’. This from the guy who spent his teen years tearing throats out. Luckily, she’s inherited her father's sociopathic tendencies and her mother’s magical skills, a lethal yet useful combination when navigating academy life. This academy is home to the elite who strive to excel and now her, who strives to leave. Since the supernaturals revealed themselves to the world, the unluckiest human kids join the vampires and witches at Thornwood and hopefully, the humans aren’t dissected in this biology class. She doesn’t care that nobody trusts her, but when the headmaster’s son is found unalived, fingers point at Dorian’s darkling daughter. Which is ridiculous for she would’ve reanimated the bullying asshole and demanded he perform tricks. If she wants help clearing her name, she needs to become ‘a touch more amiable’ to the three guys who seem oddly fascinated by her. Somebody doesn’t want the accords between humans and supes to last, and she’s not taking the blame just because she’s a Blackwood. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. I can’t wait to find out what happens next. I highly recommend to everyone.
It was so enticing that I couldn’t put it down, this book grabbed my interest from the very first page. I had to know what happened next. The story is well written with a very good storyline. Welcome to Thornwood Academy. This book is part of the Nightworld Academy world. This book series is a slow-burn paranormal romance, almost as glacial as our heroine for it features a girl who isn't afraid to use her dark side, a magic school where humans mix with vampires and witches, and three guys with secrets in a town filled with murder and mystery. This is the story of Eloise and Dorian Blackwood’s child Mia who is now called Violet. She is a half-vampire, half-witch, smart, sarcastic, and slightly unhinged with a fondness for necromancy. Set many years after the events of the Nightworld Academy and the Ravenhold Academy series. She tried to attend a human school, but they didn’t appreciate her behaviour. She found biology class more interesting when the dissected animals fought back, but the school didn’t. Her parents searched for somewhere new to send their deviant daughter, and doors open when her father is Dorian Blackwood. Then they close firmly behind once he dumped her inside an exclusive supernatural academy, along with instructions to become ‘a touch more amiable’. This from the guy who spent his teen years tearing throats out. Luckily, she’s inherited her father's sociopathic tendencies and her mother’s magical skills, a lethal yet useful combination when navigating academy life. This academy is home to the elite who strive to excel and now her, who strives to leave. Since the supernaturals revealed themselves to the world, the unluckiest human kids join the vampires and witches at Thornwood and hopefully, the humans aren’t dissected in this biology class. She doesn’t care that nobody trusts her, but when the headmaster’s son is found unalived, fingers point at Dorian’s darkling daughter. Which is ridiculous for she would’ve reanimated the bullying asshole and demanded he perform tricks. If she wants help clearing her name, she needs to become ‘a touch more amiable’ to the three guys who seem oddly fascinated by her. Somebody doesn’t want the accords between humans and supes to last, and she’s not taking the blame just because she’s a Blackwood. So with all that and more this story pulls you in and holds you tight. I can’t wait to find out what happens next. I highly recommend to everyone.
February 12, 2023
Cover Blurb:
I’m a vampire-witch hybrid with a fondness for necromancy.
Excuse me if I’m a little dead inside.
I tried to attend a human school, but they didn’t appreciate my behavior. Personally, I found biology class more interesting when the dissected animals fought back. The school didn’t.
My parents searched for somewhere new to send their deviant daughter, and doors open when your father is Dorian Blackwood. Then they close firmly behind once he dumps you inside an exclusive supernatural academy, along with instructions to become ‘a touch more amiable’.
Says the guy who spent his teen years tearing throats out. Luckily, I’ve inherited my father’s sociopathic tendencies and my mother’s magical skills, a lethal yet useful combination when navigating academy life.
Thornwood Academy. Home to the elite who strive to excel—and now me, who strives to leave. Since the supernaturals revealed themselves to the world, the unluckiest human kids join the vampires and witches at Thornwood. Hopefully, the humans aren’t dissected in this biology class.
I don’t care that nobody trusts me, but when the headmaster’s son is found unalived, fingers point at Dorian’s darkling daughter. Ridiculous. I would’ve reanimated the bullying asshole and demanded he perform tricks. Such a wasted opportunity.
If I want help clearing my name, I need to become ‘a touch more amiable’ to the three guys who seem oddly fascinated by me. Somebody doesn’t want the accords between humans and supes to last, and I’m not taking the blame just because I’m a Blackwood.
I’m a vampire-witch hybrid with a fondness for necromancy.
Excuse me if I’m a little dead inside.
I tried to attend a human school, but they didn’t appreciate my behavior. Personally, I found biology class more interesting when the dissected animals fought back. The school didn’t.
My parents searched for somewhere new to send their deviant daughter, and doors open when your father is Dorian Blackwood. Then they close firmly behind once he dumps you inside an exclusive supernatural academy, along with instructions to become ‘a touch more amiable’.
Says the guy who spent his teen years tearing throats out. Luckily, I’ve inherited my father’s sociopathic tendencies and my mother’s magical skills, a lethal yet useful combination when navigating academy life.
Thornwood Academy. Home to the elite who strive to excel—and now me, who strives to leave. Since the supernaturals revealed themselves to the world, the unluckiest human kids join the vampires and witches at Thornwood. Hopefully, the humans aren’t dissected in this biology class.
I don’t care that nobody trusts me, but when the headmaster’s son is found unalived, fingers point at Dorian’s darkling daughter. Ridiculous. I would’ve reanimated the bullying asshole and demanded he perform tricks. Such a wasted opportunity.
If I want help clearing my name, I need to become ‘a touch more amiable’ to the three guys who seem oddly fascinated by me. Somebody doesn’t want the accords between humans and supes to last, and I’m not taking the blame just because I’m a Blackwood.
September 1, 2024
Good
Note: this is the sequel series to the Ravenhold Academy series, and Violet is the daughter of characters from that series- you will probably want to read it first!
WARNING! Cliffhanger! This rates about a 4/5 on the trauma scale, important but not life threatening.
Daughter of two notorious supernaturals, Violet Blackwood might be a powerful hybrid supe, but she has a lot to learn when it comes to people skills.
Sent to Thornwood Academy, she doesn’t really care what the other students think of her, right up until she is accused of murdering the school bully…
If you enjoyed Violet’s parents’ story, then this will be an enjoyable trip back into the same world, just a few years later.
Violet is obviously inspired by Wednesday Addams, and makes for a fun (if somewhat obtuse in the world of human relations) character.
There are several interesting characters she interacts with, but the spice level is lower than Ravenhold fans might expect.
Still, it’s an entertaining read, with an intriguing (and unsolved) mystery at the heart of it, and interesting support characters.
We do get a very small cameo appearance from the Ravenhold crew, but mostly just from Violet’s point of view.
An enjoyable beginning to an intriguing mystery series (with a hint of romance) for urban fantasy and RH fans.
Note: this is the sequel series to the Ravenhold Academy series, and Violet is the daughter of characters from that series- you will probably want to read it first!
WARNING! Cliffhanger! This rates about a 4/5 on the trauma scale, important but not life threatening.
Daughter of two notorious supernaturals, Violet Blackwood might be a powerful hybrid supe, but she has a lot to learn when it comes to people skills.
Sent to Thornwood Academy, she doesn’t really care what the other students think of her, right up until she is accused of murdering the school bully…
If you enjoyed Violet’s parents’ story, then this will be an enjoyable trip back into the same world, just a few years later.
Violet is obviously inspired by Wednesday Addams, and makes for a fun (if somewhat obtuse in the world of human relations) character.
There are several interesting characters she interacts with, but the spice level is lower than Ravenhold fans might expect.
Still, it’s an entertaining read, with an intriguing (and unsolved) mystery at the heart of it, and interesting support characters.
We do get a very small cameo appearance from the Ravenhold crew, but mostly just from Violet’s point of view.
An enjoyable beginning to an intriguing mystery series (with a hint of romance) for urban fantasy and RH fans.
September 23, 2023
I was drawn to this one for the comparison of the main character to Wednesday and, while it does deliver that dark morally grey emotionally distant persona in the main character, the story didn’t fully engage me. It did have really good bare bones and the Wednesday/Enid dynamic was apparent between roommates Violet and Holly which I was actually interested in. Violet’s interactions with the guys that were meant to be her love interest was interesting but also there wasn’t enough interaction on this book to make me invested in seeing what could happen long term. That and the murder mystery was starting to get intriguing but cut off abruptly at the end of the book. I think if it’d been fleshed out a bit more this book, both the developing relationships and the transitions it could’ve been a really great read.
Also, I was surprised to find it to be a spin-off from another book of read earlier in the summer: Ravenhold. This told the tale of the child of that series’s MCs. But at the same time it makes sense: I had similar reactions to that book that I had for this one. Good bare bones. Intriguing setup and idea. Kind of abrupt and hard to follow on the delivery.
Also, I was surprised to find it to be a spin-off from another book of read earlier in the summer: Ravenhold. This told the tale of the child of that series’s MCs. But at the same time it makes sense: I had similar reactions to that book that I had for this one. Good bare bones. Intriguing setup and idea. Kind of abrupt and hard to follow on the delivery.
February 9, 2023
Violet Blackwood is deliciously dark and as the Daughter of high profile hybrid witch/vampire parents, she has the gifts and personality to back this up.
Forced by her parents to go to a combined academy (humans/witches/vampires etc), as a hybrid Violet really doesn't fit in. Then again, Violet has never really conformed so what on earth can everyone expect!
Having drawn the 'wrong' attention to herself, Violet becomes a suspect in a murder of a student, leaving her determined to find the real killer.
Add in the brooding vampire Grayson, talented but withdrawn witch Rowan and half shifter Leif, all who seem to be drawn to her, yet suspiciously involved in shady goings on, and you have the perfect melting pot of magic, mystery, murder and potential smexy times!
I was really engaged in Violet, although she is dangerous, the author very cleverly nutured her vulnerabilities and tiny tendrils of friendships and relationships. And who doesn't love a gripping 'whodunit'!
I can't wait for book 2.
Forced by her parents to go to a combined academy (humans/witches/vampires etc), as a hybrid Violet really doesn't fit in. Then again, Violet has never really conformed so what on earth can everyone expect!
Having drawn the 'wrong' attention to herself, Violet becomes a suspect in a murder of a student, leaving her determined to find the real killer.
Add in the brooding vampire Grayson, talented but withdrawn witch Rowan and half shifter Leif, all who seem to be drawn to her, yet suspiciously involved in shady goings on, and you have the perfect melting pot of magic, mystery, murder and potential smexy times!
I was really engaged in Violet, although she is dangerous, the author very cleverly nutured her vulnerabilities and tiny tendrils of friendships and relationships. And who doesn't love a gripping 'whodunit'!
I can't wait for book 2.
March 30, 2023
❤ Teen goth rebellion and mystery at its best!
Loved every moment of this glorious read! I instantly fell for Violet and all her snarky, moody, society clueless sass. Talk about the *ultimate* timeout from mum and dad - Eloise (trinity witch) and Dorian Blackwood. Nothing like getting "banished" to an Academy she must spend time with *shudder* humans, witches and vampires. To say she's a wee bit anti-social is an understatement- but also makes for some highly numerous interactions. Take one fish out of water, black cloud, goth teen with uber powers and plop her into an academy with some already brewing tension? You guessed it....lots of fun fun fun! There's intrigue throughout this book that won't be resolved by the end. I am enjoying these characters, and can't wait to see where this story goes in book two. I for one HIGHLY recommend this book...two enthusiastic thumbs up.
Loved every moment of this glorious read! I instantly fell for Violet and all her snarky, moody, society clueless sass. Talk about the *ultimate* timeout from mum and dad - Eloise (trinity witch) and Dorian Blackwood. Nothing like getting "banished" to an Academy she must spend time with *shudder* humans, witches and vampires. To say she's a wee bit anti-social is an understatement- but also makes for some highly numerous interactions. Take one fish out of water, black cloud, goth teen with uber powers and plop her into an academy with some already brewing tension? You guessed it....lots of fun fun fun! There's intrigue throughout this book that won't be resolved by the end. I am enjoying these characters, and can't wait to see where this story goes in book two. I for one HIGHLY recommend this book...two enthusiastic thumbs up.
May 14, 2023
This is a book about a girl, Violet, who is a lot like Wednesday but darker. She's a mix of vampire and witch who. like Wednesday, gets kicked out of a schoo land sent to an academy.
The school didn't like her bringing dead mice in Biology class back to life. Sort of. What's wrong with zombie mice?
It's also a world where humans and supes (supernaturals) live in a sort of tolerance for each other. Sort of tolerance.
She has to room with a human, deal with a guy that seems to really seriously hate her, uses blood magic which happens to be illegal, meets a guy who is a shifter (a group that isn't much like by either side), has a guy that rifles through her belongings and, to top it off, one of the guys ends up dead.
And she's suddenly a suspect.
It's different enough from Wednesday to stand on its own and I really enjoyed the story and already got the next book in the series and started it.
The school didn't like her bringing dead mice in Biology class back to life. Sort of. What's wrong with zombie mice?
It's also a world where humans and supes (supernaturals) live in a sort of tolerance for each other. Sort of tolerance.
She has to room with a human, deal with a guy that seems to really seriously hate her, uses blood magic which happens to be illegal, meets a guy who is a shifter (a group that isn't much like by either side), has a guy that rifles through her belongings and, to top it off, one of the guys ends up dead.
And she's suddenly a suspect.
It's different enough from Wednesday to stand on its own and I really enjoyed the story and already got the next book in the series and started it.
August 12, 2023
What an amazing new series. I can't get enough of Violet Blackwood, if you like magic, mystery murder storyline with dry humor you would love Violet, sure if you liked Wednesday Addams you might be more inclined to like her but I think even though there's similarities between them the background of both are completely different, Violet talks about her family with affection. I loved her scenes with Dorian. Also, I feel the interactions between characters are more natural, they flow nicely with the story and that's all LJ Swallow' s amazing writing. Her characters always feel real, even when the story is paranormal, because they are well developed, well thought out and she doesn't rush her characters that's why you can't resist fall in love with them. Make yourself a favor and read this series.
I'm so looking forward to more Violet, more Rowan, more Leif, more Grayson...and maybe a fire snake familiar 😁
I'm so looking forward to more Violet, more Rowan, more Leif, more Grayson...and maybe a fire snake familiar 😁
June 20, 2025
Sometimes you get morally grey characters and then there are characters like Violet who just give you the impression of if they saw the logic of it they might do something horrific. I think the opening paragraph really sets us up well for her character. Half witch, half vampire with a propensity for necromancy. I’ve yet to decide how I feel about Rowan (power hungry witch), Greyson (vampire with control issues and a sucky family) or Leif (half shifter). Interactions with them have been very cut and dry because Violet fears any connections to others and so keeps to business. Therefore we only know so much about each of the guys. I look forward to them cracking her hard shell. The world better watch out because unlike many books where only the MMC would literally burn the world for the FMC, I bet Violet will be willing to burn the world for these guys by the end of this series. The way she talks is great. Love watching her throw people off and the sarcasm/not sarcasm streak is great.
February 20, 2025
Let Down
This is the second time I have read this book, I originally read it when it first came out. I could not remember what happened, though, so I wanted to read it again.
I now remember being disappointed, and here is why. This was incredibly slow paced, and I prefer a faster pace when reading. There was no spice at all.
The most disappointing thing is that it doesn't come for book 1 itself but the series. My attention span will not last for 11 books. I prefer 3 to 4 books in a series, so while I'm curious as to what happens next, I can't bring myself to keep reading since 11 books sounds so daunting. Even though I read way more than that normally.
This is the second time I have read this book, I originally read it when it first came out. I could not remember what happened, though, so I wanted to read it again.
I now remember being disappointed, and here is why. This was incredibly slow paced, and I prefer a faster pace when reading. There was no spice at all.
The most disappointing thing is that it doesn't come for book 1 itself but the series. My attention span will not last for 11 books. I prefer 3 to 4 books in a series, so while I'm curious as to what happens next, I can't bring myself to keep reading since 11 books sounds so daunting. Even though I read way more than that normally.
May 14, 2025
Quick read. MC definitely is a Wednesday Addams knock off and so are several other characters. Definitely don’t mind the Wednesday aspect but wish that it wasn’t so similar to the tv show.
I do find it kind of lame that she can hear mice underground but can’t hear people talking close by🤦🏾♀️ Also why didn’t she do more spells throughout the book? She didn’t do any besides minor things. She either has great power or she doesn’t?
I liked who Violet became towards the end of the book, in the beginning she was rather annoying.
Probably going to keep reading because I want to know who the killer is. I have my suspicions and want to know if I’m right.
I do find it kind of lame that she can hear mice underground but can’t hear people talking close by🤦🏾♀️ Also why didn’t she do more spells throughout the book? She didn’t do any besides minor things. She either has great power or she doesn’t?
I liked who Violet became towards the end of the book, in the beginning she was rather annoying.
Probably going to keep reading because I want to know who the killer is. I have my suspicions and want to know if I’m right.
March 16, 2023
Oh man, did I enjoy this book. If you are looking for something to satisfy your Wednesday Adams craving while we wait for Season 2, This is for you. It gives you all the same feels, suspense, mystery and dark acidemia with a dash of horror. Violet Blackwood is the dark anti-hero Queen you cant help but love. Her character progression feel so genuine and smooth. Holly is the most amazing softie. and the boys? *drool* The tension and chemistry is fantastic. Violet being oblivious to it just makes it *chef's kiss*. The next book cannot come soon enough.
March 27, 2023
Never Say Die, the first book of the Thornwood Academy series, is an ebook I borrowed through Kindle Unlimited (KU). This one is a hard one to rate. It's heavy on Wednesday (of Addams Family fame) fan-fiction with some great, deadpan humor and one-liners, but nothing to differentiate Violet from the TV show character. Unfortunately, the emphasis is so focused on revealing Violet's sociopathic disconnect from people, the story line drags and feels mundane in comparison. Nothing original about the story, but I may possibly download the next book just for the droll one-liners.
April 2, 2023
I am loving this book. I am so curious. This is definitely leaving me guessing. Rowan is a powerful witch with secrets who bonds Violet after helping her. Grayson is a vampire who keeps finding bodies and has secret meetings with unknown people. But he is captivated by Violet and wants to help prove her innocence. Leif is a shifter who sees her as a friend. I’m dying to know what happens as she gets to know all of them better and they all help her solve the murders. But also who is the murderer? And why are they framing her?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 13, 2023
3.5
Violet is forced to attend supe school after she ‘terrorizes’ too many human schools with her necromancy. She desperately wants to not be there but it may be the place she needs to be. Between her cheerful and sunny roommate, Holly, the mysterious outliers, Grayson, Rowan, & Leif, she may find people she actually relates to. Or not. Personal interaction’s not really her forte.
Especially after she’s on a mission to prove her innocence after the school bully is murdered.
What’s holding me back from a 4 is character growth. But I foresee that in the future for Violet
Violet is forced to attend supe school after she ‘terrorizes’ too many human schools with her necromancy. She desperately wants to not be there but it may be the place she needs to be. Between her cheerful and sunny roommate, Holly, the mysterious outliers, Grayson, Rowan, & Leif, she may find people she actually relates to. Or not. Personal interaction’s not really her forte.
Especially after she’s on a mission to prove her innocence after the school bully is murdered.
What’s holding me back from a 4 is character growth. But I foresee that in the future for Violet
February 9, 2023
Not again not another school especially one for sups and for Violet being sent to Thornwood Academy is annoying for many reasons one being she’s a hybrid daughter to a powerful witch and vampire and was raised on an island separate from all this interacting with people and she’d do anything to get back to it to leave the academy behind only problem being someone is killing students and leaving a trail right to her and out of all things Violet doesn’t want is anyone saying she’s a killer granted she doesn’t want to be around people and wants to leave but more importantly she wants to solve the murders to discover who is setting her up and yes probably punish them.. for Violet that’s the most important thing not making friends unfortunately we don’t always get what we want sometimes we get what we need and that for Violet it seems making bonds is something she never bargained for
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
I love love love Violet!!!! She’s so blunt and has no social skills whatsoever. She’s hilarious in a cute and innocent and deadly way. I also love Grayson, Rowan, and Leif for her. Violet better brace herself because she’s in for a treat with these guys and all the emotions they’re going to awaken in her. I loved seeing Dorian and Eloise, too!! I hope we get to see more of them and Zeke and Ethan, too! I loved this book! I’m excited for the next one! I highly recommend this book!
May 27, 2023
Mystery and Magic!
This has been on my TBR since the author announced it, and I am so happy I finally read it. I really enjoyed the book and I love the mystery. I really enjoyed all the characters and look forward to reading more. I like the fact I am soo clueless with the suspect list, sometimes it’s fun to not know who is the bad guy is. I would definitely recommend to people, like do many readers before me have. It is a good read.
4⭐️ 0🌶
This has been on my TBR since the author announced it, and I am so happy I finally read it. I really enjoyed the book and I love the mystery. I really enjoyed all the characters and look forward to reading more. I like the fact I am soo clueless with the suspect list, sometimes it’s fun to not know who is the bad guy is. I would definitely recommend to people, like do many readers before me have. It is a good read.
4⭐️ 0🌶
July 13, 2023
On the fence!
Not overly keen on the fmc she's a bit actually a lot self centred and rude, I also don't understand the talking like she's from the 1800s sometimes when she went to human school and how does she not understand relationships in anyway. It's all a bit weird. However 5 stars because actually if she had better dialogue it would actually have a good storyline. I like all the other characters minus Dorian and wesley obviously.
Not overly keen on the fmc she's a bit actually a lot self centred and rude, I also don't understand the talking like she's from the 1800s sometimes when she went to human school and how does she not understand relationships in anyway. It's all a bit weird. However 5 stars because actually if she had better dialogue it would actually have a good storyline. I like all the other characters minus Dorian and wesley obviously.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews