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Shadow Hills Academy: Relentless #3
A Dose of Agony
The final installment of the Shadow Hills Relentless series.
They say the games have only just begun, but I'm here to end them once and for all.
A civil war is brewing in the Under World, lead by the same villain who stole my sister from me. Jarron must return to his world for damage control, leaving me alone at Shadow Hills Academy again. This time, though, I'm protected like a precious gem, and trapped in Elite Hall until we're certain it's safe. I understand the caution but I'm not a delicate princess, and I'm not going to let someone else fight this battle for me.
There's a way to end the Akrasia Games once and for all and free the Jinn from the Cosmic Council's control. I'm going to find a way to put them all in the grave for what they've done to my sister, even if it means seeking out unlikely allies and sneaking away from the school-- and the planet-- the get the information I need.
They say the games have only just begun, but I'm here to end them once and for all.
A civil war is brewing in the Under World, lead by the same villain who stole my sister from me. Jarron must return to his world for damage control, leaving me alone at Shadow Hills Academy again. This time, though, I'm protected like a precious gem, and trapped in Elite Hall until we're certain it's safe. I understand the caution but I'm not a delicate princess, and I'm not going to let someone else fight this battle for me.
There's a way to end the Akrasia Games once and for all and free the Jinn from the Cosmic Council's control. I'm going to find a way to put them all in the grave for what they've done to my sister, even if it means seeking out unlikely allies and sneaking away from the school-- and the planet-- the get the information I need.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2023
150 people are currently reading
888 people want to read
About the author
Stacey Trombley
18 books267 followersStacey Trombley is the author of several fantasy romance series including WICKED FAE and SHADOW HILLS ACADEMY. Her places to travel list is almost as long as her to-be-read list. Most recently, she spent 9 months living in a van with her family, traveling the US and Mexico. She has many more adventures in mind, both on Earth and in her imagination.
Follow her journey on Instagram and Tiktok @StaceyTrombleyAuthor and learn more about her books at www.StaceyTrombley.com
Follow her journey on Instagram and Tiktok @StaceyTrombleyAuthor and learn more about her books at www.StaceyTrombley.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
October 15, 2023
These books are far from perfect with typos, plot holes, and a frustratingly obtuse FMC, but Jarron The Simp has given me a book hang-over 🫣
January 8, 2023
After reading the first book. I was hooked on it. I literally counted down the days till I could read this. I was routing for candice the whole way through. I'm gutted the third book isn't already out.
I think this seriously isn't hyped enough and highly unappreciated. I was on the edge of my seat all the way through it. It had me guessing and thinking and hoping and feeling crushed it gave me all the feels. Just love this series. Can't wait to read the next book.
I think this seriously isn't hyped enough and highly unappreciated. I was on the edge of my seat all the way through it. It had me guessing and thinking and hoping and feeling crushed it gave me all the feels. Just love this series. Can't wait to read the next book.
May 31, 2023
Weak Ending to a Series that Started Strong
I’m not sure what happened here but this was a disappointment. Had to push myself to finish and ending up skimming some chunks of a story where the plot went nowhere because the characters were too busy making potions, paintings, and coffees. In other words, a lot of useless filler that did not add to the story nor did it get resolved in the end.
Too bad.
I’m not sure what happened here but this was a disappointment. Had to push myself to finish and ending up skimming some chunks of a story where the plot went nowhere because the characters were too busy making potions, paintings, and coffees. In other words, a lot of useless filler that did not add to the story nor did it get resolved in the end.
Too bad.
November 27, 2025
This one took me a while to get through. There were a lot of times where there was just so much happening at once I couldn’t get a clear picture. It ended well though!
November 29, 2024
I don't think I've ever read a book with a more appropriate title. Because this WAS a dose of agony.
I skimmed the shit out of this.
Reader's Notes:
I skimmed the shit out of this.
Reader's Notes:
December 26, 2025
This was a perfect book to finish up the trilogy. I wasn’t expecting any high stakes regarding the important characters. I do wish there was a tad more romance, but I loved the strong fmc and the epilogue was nice. It would be cool to have a book about Candice at Moonstone University. Overall, I really liked the series. It was nothing crazy, but still such an enjoyable fantasy read. I love Jarron!!
March 10, 2024
yasssss
This was the perfect ending to this arc. I’m not sure if there are more books, but if there aren’t, this was beautiful. The stakes, the SPICE, the emotions. I definitely cried, but I’m so glad I read this series.
This was the perfect ending to this arc. I’m not sure if there are more books, but if there aren’t, this was beautiful. The stakes, the SPICE, the emotions. I definitely cried, but I’m so glad I read this series.
August 26, 2024
this is mostly abt the whole series not just this final book.
although i ate up this series in a week and i will be thinking about these characters for weeks i did find it quite lacking in the actual writing. a lot of things felt very hollow and like they weren't flushed out enligh. and some things that seemed to be important never got brought up again. it felt like the world had so much more potential that just wasn't realized.
some of the resolutions and practicality of what happened toward did not feel realistic to me. i kept waiting for more to happen or some more explanation for how things happened but it ever came. like how jarron used n'vrta in the bedroom and then she later found out what that meant only for her to never realize where she originally heard the word or brinfg it up to him. was waiting for her to ask him about it and felt disappointed at this lack of resolution. and the ending was just so disappointing to me. these characters were barely even together, never even finished the mating bond before it was over like ??? give me more i feel unsatisfied :(
overall things felt juvenile in a way, and i think the concepts could have expanded more maturely. and it felt like the things happening with the war had little to no impact on the story. obviously this is a romantasy book, but for how little time the love interests spent together i also didn't get much political information or real reasoning behind what else was happening. it seemed like the plot was sevdonaru for the romance.
also can we just talk about how damn stupid candice is? bc girl how are you going to learn all of this PROOF that ur his chosen and then just be like "hm maybe it's not me tho" ?,!.!:!.?. you're supposed to be this wicked smart girl and you can't even remember that someone said a demon can't hurt their chosen while ur sister is literally walking about with a big ass scar?,!.!.???
there was also a lot of cliches in the writing and unesecaru repetition in candice's thoughts. like i don't need you be all "i felt weak my whole life, but now i've found strength in potions. one day i will be able to become powerful" like girl shutttrrf up if i took a shot everyone you mentioned feeling weak i would be DEAD. and the emphasis on laithes pronouns and the obvious allusion to the occupation of native lands felt so forced. loved the concept but it was so ... brand deal feeling that it took me out of the story.
the bordering on spicy also made no sense to me. either make it clean or put a real sex scene in there, maybe thats just me but the almost there tension annoyed me and i felt like i was waiting for more. it seems like the author wasn't sure whether to make this juvenile or adult.
all in all tho i LOVED these characters. they all had unique personalities and the overall vibe i thoroughly enjoyed. i think all of the side characters were so realized and they played such a huge part in this series i loved it when they were on screen. this played like a movie in my head fr. i'll be fantaziing about jarron for the foreseeable future. i think this had such good potential i just wish there was a little something more to it.
to conclude. loved it. wished it was just a little better :/. will probably reread when i need to feel something.
although i ate up this series in a week and i will be thinking about these characters for weeks i did find it quite lacking in the actual writing. a lot of things felt very hollow and like they weren't flushed out enligh. and some things that seemed to be important never got brought up again. it felt like the world had so much more potential that just wasn't realized.
some of the resolutions and practicality of what happened toward did not feel realistic to me. i kept waiting for more to happen or some more explanation for how things happened but it ever came. like how jarron used n'vrta in the bedroom and then she later found out what that meant only for her to never realize where she originally heard the word or brinfg it up to him. was waiting for her to ask him about it and felt disappointed at this lack of resolution. and the ending was just so disappointing to me. these characters were barely even together, never even finished the mating bond before it was over like ??? give me more i feel unsatisfied :(
overall things felt juvenile in a way, and i think the concepts could have expanded more maturely. and it felt like the things happening with the war had little to no impact on the story. obviously this is a romantasy book, but for how little time the love interests spent together i also didn't get much political information or real reasoning behind what else was happening. it seemed like the plot was sevdonaru for the romance.
also can we just talk about how damn stupid candice is? bc girl how are you going to learn all of this PROOF that ur his chosen and then just be like "hm maybe it's not me tho" ?,!.!:!.?. you're supposed to be this wicked smart girl and you can't even remember that someone said a demon can't hurt their chosen while ur sister is literally walking about with a big ass scar?,!.!.???
there was also a lot of cliches in the writing and unesecaru repetition in candice's thoughts. like i don't need you be all "i felt weak my whole life, but now i've found strength in potions. one day i will be able to become powerful" like girl shutttrrf up if i took a shot everyone you mentioned feeling weak i would be DEAD. and the emphasis on laithes pronouns and the obvious allusion to the occupation of native lands felt so forced. loved the concept but it was so ... brand deal feeling that it took me out of the story.
the bordering on spicy also made no sense to me. either make it clean or put a real sex scene in there, maybe thats just me but the almost there tension annoyed me and i felt like i was waiting for more. it seems like the author wasn't sure whether to make this juvenile or adult.
all in all tho i LOVED these characters. they all had unique personalities and the overall vibe i thoroughly enjoyed. i think all of the side characters were so realized and they played such a huge part in this series i loved it when they were on screen. this played like a movie in my head fr. i'll be fantaziing about jarron for the foreseeable future. i think this had such good potential i just wish there was a little something more to it.
to conclude. loved it. wished it was just a little better :/. will probably reread when i need to feel something.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2023
What a wonderful conclusion of this trilogy. Did I postpone finishing this book one day cause I didn't want to say goodbye to these amazing characters? Yes I did and I don't regret it.
While this book had in the beginning less interaction between Candice and Jarron, what I missed a bit. I enjoyed it so much. I loved how the author has wrapped up this whole trilogy, how she let it end. This book was amazing, this world she created was amazing I just didn't get enough off it. I wanted to explore it more, still do.
I already know that I will be rereading this trilogy a lot😅 Candice is just such a strong character although she has a lot of doubts. She is amazing and she always seems to surprise you with the things she does. Jarron might seem like a big bad demon but is really a big softie when it comes to the ones he cares for. Just the fact that he would do everything for her is proof enough.
Thank of course you have her three amazing friends Lola, the pixie who you must not underestimate. Janet who is a true loyal friend and last but not least Thompson who can have an incredibly good humor if the time is right😅 You don't know how hard I laughed with his description of a cyclope😅
Last but not least I want to thank the author for providing me with an earc.
While this book had in the beginning less interaction between Candice and Jarron, what I missed a bit. I enjoyed it so much. I loved how the author has wrapped up this whole trilogy, how she let it end. This book was amazing, this world she created was amazing I just didn't get enough off it. I wanted to explore it more, still do.
I already know that I will be rereading this trilogy a lot😅 Candice is just such a strong character although she has a lot of doubts. She is amazing and she always seems to surprise you with the things she does. Jarron might seem like a big bad demon but is really a big softie when it comes to the ones he cares for. Just the fact that he would do everything for her is proof enough.
Thank of course you have her three amazing friends Lola, the pixie who you must not underestimate. Janet who is a true loyal friend and last but not least Thompson who can have an incredibly good humor if the time is right😅 You don't know how hard I laughed with his description of a cyclope😅
Last but not least I want to thank the author for providing me with an earc.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2023
This was an excellent conclusion to Candice's story, I'm not ready to say goodbye to this world and I'm really hoping that the way the epilogue was set up means we're getting someone else's story next 👀
I was worried that the ending of book two meant Candice accepting Jarron's mark would be drawn out to create tension and drama but actually the story was woven really well and kept me hooked throughout! I actually stayed up til about 3am to finish this book which I haven't done for a very long time! Every chapter leaves you wanting to keep going to find out a little more, but feeding you more twists and turns as you read.
At times it feels a little like the plot is being spoon fed to you, but with so many characters with complicated allegiances it does help you follow the story. It's also done in a creative way so that other characters are pointing things out to the FMC which is logical as she doesn't fully understand the customs and rules of the game she's playing.
The spice in this book is on page, implied without explicit language. And the tension between the two of them is really well written and keeps you wanting to read on for them to finally open up to each other!
I was worried that the ending of book two meant Candice accepting Jarron's mark would be drawn out to create tension and drama but actually the story was woven really well and kept me hooked throughout! I actually stayed up til about 3am to finish this book which I haven't done for a very long time! Every chapter leaves you wanting to keep going to find out a little more, but feeding you more twists and turns as you read.
At times it feels a little like the plot is being spoon fed to you, but with so many characters with complicated allegiances it does help you follow the story. It's also done in a creative way so that other characters are pointing things out to the FMC which is logical as she doesn't fully understand the customs and rules of the game she's playing.
The spice in this book is on page, implied without explicit language. And the tension between the two of them is really well written and keeps you wanting to read on for them to finally open up to each other!
October 10, 2023
Middddd. Like, such a cool premise and so much potential and I liked the characters but OH MY GOD please stop with the cliche friendship dialogue. Me and the girlies always support eachother but we don’t sound like an ad on feminism when we do. PLEASE write more authentic styled conversations. Everything was so plot driven. I think the big kicker were all the friendships felt so forced - they’d have a conversation and there ya have it, they’re besties! No transition no anything. Ask me why they’re friends. Do it. I would tell you they’re outsiders and that’s it. Like ??? The author treats this group like it’s the only normal group that doesn’t play into the hierarchy and gossip when they totally do. They also end up on top and end up being powerful and cool but it takes away from the message. They were more powerful than they thought. They ended up popular. But those go hand in hand in this which overrides the whole fucking point!
Anyways, make it spicier and less repetitive. Could’ve been amazing but wasn’t. Ending was predictable. I gave it three because I made it here but it’s more of a 2.5.
Anyways, make it spicier and less repetitive. Could’ve been amazing but wasn’t. Ending was predictable. I gave it three because I made it here but it’s more of a 2.5.
July 3, 2024
I started this series because it was cute and I liked Jarron. The first book was decent, it wasn’t ground breaking but I liked it for what it was. The second book started to annoy me Candace was becoming so annoying. She’s stubborn but not in a fun way.
It’s weird that Candace didn’t think about Jarron not being able to harm his Chosen until the moment they were on trial. I clocked that from the beginning and it’s weird she just didn’t make that connection. After agonizing over the situation for an entire book, she didn’t make that connection? She believed people who were trying to ruin her instead? It’s nearly drilled into the story that he cannot harm his chosen. It felt forced and dragged on way longer than it should. I think this series had some real potential but it was hastily written and lacked a lot of depth. I would have loved to see more Janet and Lola but they were only convenient for plots and cheering up Candace. It’s a decent idea I just think the execution was sloppy and I’m mostly disappointed with the last two books. I did like the first one. But this whole series could have just been two at the level it’s written. I’m just disappointed.
It’s weird that Candace didn’t think about Jarron not being able to harm his Chosen until the moment they were on trial. I clocked that from the beginning and it’s weird she just didn’t make that connection. After agonizing over the situation for an entire book, she didn’t make that connection? She believed people who were trying to ruin her instead? It’s nearly drilled into the story that he cannot harm his chosen. It felt forced and dragged on way longer than it should. I think this series had some real potential but it was hastily written and lacked a lot of depth. I would have loved to see more Janet and Lola but they were only convenient for plots and cheering up Candace. It’s a decent idea I just think the execution was sloppy and I’m mostly disappointed with the last two books. I did like the first one. But this whole series could have just been two at the level it’s written. I’m just disappointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2023
DNF at 20%. This is awful. There is nothing really happening. Jarron is not in the story except them constantly reminding you that he is at his home planet “handling tension” and trying to save them from an impending war. Candice is doing her potions and overthinking everything. I was tempted to be done after the second book and how it ended but I finally caved and tried it out. Terrible decision and now I’m annoyed. Sorry for the rant but I had to get it out and have this to remind myself later on why I hated this book.
July 5, 2023
**2.5 STARS**
This is my least favorite of the series because Jarron and Candice are separated. He’s back in his world dealing with the fallout of not being able to claim Candice and war. I skimmed a lot because why was Candice busy making potions and helping Thompson (which is fine but felt like a different story going on there) and how can she still be questioning Jarron’s love for her? I was rolling my eyes hard in this one because honestly she didn’t deserve him if she couldn’t choose him lol. Give him to me!😅 I mean how can they communicate and yet miscommunicate so much?! I wanted more from her, more growth but it just wasn’t there. I didn’t even feel that she was powerful just because she could make potions.
There is finally a sex scene between them but it’s not detailed at all. I was kind of disappointed that this ended as a book I skimmed through but it has a happy ending between Jarron and Candice so I’ll be satisfied with that. Jarron was probably the only reason I binged this series so quick!
Overall I think the whole series is addictive and bingeable, though the MC did get on my nerves in book two and three. If you are into supernatural academies, a slow burn and a demon who is clearly head over heels in love with a mostly human girl then you might enjoy this one.
This is my least favorite of the series because Jarron and Candice are separated. He’s back in his world dealing with the fallout of not being able to claim Candice and war. I skimmed a lot because why was Candice busy making potions and helping Thompson (which is fine but felt like a different story going on there) and how can she still be questioning Jarron’s love for her? I was rolling my eyes hard in this one because honestly she didn’t deserve him if she couldn’t choose him lol. Give him to me!😅 I mean how can they communicate and yet miscommunicate so much?! I wanted more from her, more growth but it just wasn’t there. I didn’t even feel that she was powerful just because she could make potions.
There is finally a sex scene between them but it’s not detailed at all. I was kind of disappointed that this ended as a book I skimmed through but it has a happy ending between Jarron and Candice so I’ll be satisfied with that. Jarron was probably the only reason I binged this series so quick!
Overall I think the whole series is addictive and bingeable, though the MC did get on my nerves in book two and three. If you are into supernatural academies, a slow burn and a demon who is clearly head over heels in love with a mostly human girl then you might enjoy this one.
May 31, 2023
Tropes/ Key Points:
📓Academy Romance
📓Murder Mystery
📓Revenge
📓Childhood friends to strangers to lovers
📓Touch her and die
📓I would burn the world for you
📓Slow Burn
📓Soul Bonds
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
TW: Murder, Talk of Murder
Blurb:
Jarron had to return to his kingdom due to a rebellion. Vincent has presented Liz as Jarron's chosen, claiming that she rejected Jarron and chose him instead. This caused enough discontentment in the masses that half of the kingdom is divided and calling for Jarron's head. I am a prisoner in the Elite Hall at Jarron's request. It is the only place that he can keep me safe, so I no longer go to classes or to the cafeteria. It's a lonely existence and Jarron hasn't been back in weeks. Yet, at night, there is a dark presence in the room when I sleep and a note is left behind that chills me. Someone is watching me sleep.
I still don't know for sure if I am Jarron's chosen or not. He can't tell me and the signs continue to point to Liz. I know I have to trust him and this isn't something I can research considering the delicate and private nature of it, but I can't help but feel like I need information to decide. He wants to mark me, to claim me, to start the bonding process, but my sister is looming over us. All of this is happening, while I am trying to figure out a way to end the Araksia games once and for all to free my sister.
I am reunited with an unlikely ally, though I have to keep it from Jarron. I was told that if I allow him to claim me, he would know what's happening and my ally said they wouldn't help me anymore. I have to choose... my sister... or the man I love.
Review:
Someone has noticed that the last book of a series tends to get a lower rating than the rest. In this case, it is true for me, this book was not as good as the first two, but It's not because the series is ending. I'm not rating it low because of some sense of loyalty to the first two. It's because the book is disappointing.
This is the second series I have read from this author and the first I finished. I think there is an inherent issue with the YA genre that a lot of authors tend to fall into. It's regarding how they handle their main characters with the looming conflict of the book. It's like most YA authors, unfortunately this one included, force their characters to bury their heads in the sand to avoid a solution that should have happened forever ago. This book with Candice is no exception.
I do not understand, why we are into book three, the last of the series, and Candice still doesn't know that she is Jarron's chosen. We have been given information throughout the series through the perspective of Candice, meaning she has the same information we have, and yet she is clueless. She is ditzy and very single minded. She doesn't know how to look at information at a whole until it becomes convenient to the plot. Throughout the first book, we are shown not told that Jarron has chosen Candice as his fated mate. I understand her not picking up on this, because at this point she is clueless to what's going on. However, by the end of the first book and throughout the second, we are TOLD a lot of information regarding how to figure out if the demon has chosen someone. A lot of this information lines up perfectly with Candice-- and yet she chooses repeatedly to listen to someone who has less than stellar motivations and clearly wants her dead. She takes their words as fact and allows this doubt to enter and fester, which results in her ignoring the very obvious signs. Jarron has all but outright said she is his chosen repeatedly, and yet she still acts like it's her sister.
It's made me really not like her. I don't understand why authors do this. It takes until almost the halfway point for her to realize that "OMG IM HIS MATE" and im sitting here rolling my eyes like yea. we learned that at the beginning of book two. I don't like the way this plot point was handled. It feels like it was written this way to stretch it out and cause tension, but the only tension it was causing was a tension headache behind my eyes. Candice was written so well in comparison to another FMC from this same author and I was rooting for her until she continued to be deliberately obtuse. Then at the end of the book she suddenly gets a realization and uses information that was a sign Jarron chose her against her enemies. If she knew that all along, why then did we have three books of her thinking his chosen was her sister?
I think in this series the side characters were done right and had a bigger influence on the plot than I expected them to have. It was nice having characters that were mostly supporting have an active hand in the story playing out. It feels very well thought out and like these characters have purpose outside of just banter for the MCs. I like when authors think outside the box and allow supporting characters to actually support the problem. It also didn't feel convenient. Sometimes authors write side characters in just for the sake of advancing the story and allowing them no real substance, that didn't happen here.
I loved the resolution of the story and think that it ended very well for the journey that we have taken so far. It wasn't easy for the group to beat the big bad, there were hiccups along the way that made things feel a bit more realistic. It wasn't an immediate win with no consequences like a lot of authors tend to have happen. (*cough cough* SJM *cough*) So while we didn't lose any of our main characters, not everyone came out unscathed.
Overall, this series was really good and I do urge people to give it a shot, but be aware you might be annoyed with Candice on the regular.
📓Academy Romance
📓Murder Mystery
📓Revenge
📓Childhood friends to strangers to lovers
📓Touch her and die
📓I would burn the world for you
📓Slow Burn
📓Soul Bonds
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
TW: Murder, Talk of Murder
Blurb:
Jarron had to return to his kingdom due to a rebellion. Vincent has presented Liz as Jarron's chosen, claiming that she rejected Jarron and chose him instead. This caused enough discontentment in the masses that half of the kingdom is divided and calling for Jarron's head. I am a prisoner in the Elite Hall at Jarron's request. It is the only place that he can keep me safe, so I no longer go to classes or to the cafeteria. It's a lonely existence and Jarron hasn't been back in weeks. Yet, at night, there is a dark presence in the room when I sleep and a note is left behind that chills me. Someone is watching me sleep.
I still don't know for sure if I am Jarron's chosen or not. He can't tell me and the signs continue to point to Liz. I know I have to trust him and this isn't something I can research considering the delicate and private nature of it, but I can't help but feel like I need information to decide. He wants to mark me, to claim me, to start the bonding process, but my sister is looming over us. All of this is happening, while I am trying to figure out a way to end the Araksia games once and for all to free my sister.
I am reunited with an unlikely ally, though I have to keep it from Jarron. I was told that if I allow him to claim me, he would know what's happening and my ally said they wouldn't help me anymore. I have to choose... my sister... or the man I love.
Review:
Someone has noticed that the last book of a series tends to get a lower rating than the rest. In this case, it is true for me, this book was not as good as the first two, but It's not because the series is ending. I'm not rating it low because of some sense of loyalty to the first two. It's because the book is disappointing.
This is the second series I have read from this author and the first I finished. I think there is an inherent issue with the YA genre that a lot of authors tend to fall into. It's regarding how they handle their main characters with the looming conflict of the book. It's like most YA authors, unfortunately this one included, force their characters to bury their heads in the sand to avoid a solution that should have happened forever ago. This book with Candice is no exception.
I do not understand, why we are into book three, the last of the series, and Candice still doesn't know that she is Jarron's chosen. We have been given information throughout the series through the perspective of Candice, meaning she has the same information we have, and yet she is clueless. She is ditzy and very single minded. She doesn't know how to look at information at a whole until it becomes convenient to the plot. Throughout the first book, we are shown not told that Jarron has chosen Candice as his fated mate. I understand her not picking up on this, because at this point she is clueless to what's going on. However, by the end of the first book and throughout the second, we are TOLD a lot of information regarding how to figure out if the demon has chosen someone. A lot of this information lines up perfectly with Candice-- and yet she chooses repeatedly to listen to someone who has less than stellar motivations and clearly wants her dead. She takes their words as fact and allows this doubt to enter and fester, which results in her ignoring the very obvious signs. Jarron has all but outright said she is his chosen repeatedly, and yet she still acts like it's her sister.
It's made me really not like her. I don't understand why authors do this. It takes until almost the halfway point for her to realize that "OMG IM HIS MATE" and im sitting here rolling my eyes like yea. we learned that at the beginning of book two. I don't like the way this plot point was handled. It feels like it was written this way to stretch it out and cause tension, but the only tension it was causing was a tension headache behind my eyes. Candice was written so well in comparison to another FMC from this same author and I was rooting for her until she continued to be deliberately obtuse. Then at the end of the book she suddenly gets a realization and uses information that was a sign Jarron chose her against her enemies. If she knew that all along, why then did we have three books of her thinking his chosen was her sister?
I think in this series the side characters were done right and had a bigger influence on the plot than I expected them to have. It was nice having characters that were mostly supporting have an active hand in the story playing out. It feels very well thought out and like these characters have purpose outside of just banter for the MCs. I like when authors think outside the box and allow supporting characters to actually support the problem. It also didn't feel convenient. Sometimes authors write side characters in just for the sake of advancing the story and allowing them no real substance, that didn't happen here.
I loved the resolution of the story and think that it ended very well for the journey that we have taken so far. It wasn't easy for the group to beat the big bad, there were hiccups along the way that made things feel a bit more realistic. It wasn't an immediate win with no consequences like a lot of authors tend to have happen. (*cough cough* SJM *cough*) So while we didn't lose any of our main characters, not everyone came out unscathed.
Overall, this series was really good and I do urge people to give it a shot, but be aware you might be annoyed with Candice on the regular.
March 16, 2025
3 ⭐
Book #3 of 3
🆗 Different beings, several worlds
✅ Demons, witches, shifthers, humans,...
🆗 Academy
✅ Potions
🆗 FMC: human, weaker than all the other supernaturals, aptitude for potions (family trade)
✅ MMC: powerful demon crown prince, heir, complete sweetheart regarding the FMC, tortured soul, strong and silent, puppy for the FMC, always so careful because he is afraid of scaring her away, always respectful, her freewill and well being are his top priorities
🆗 Slow burn romance
✅ Bond
✅ Hurt her and you die
✅ Friendship
✅ Learning to stand up for yourself even if everyone thinks you are weak and powerless
❌ Miscommunication (kinda): unspoken secret
⬇️ Hurt & anguish
⬇️ Feel of forbidden/rejected love
⬇️ Pride
⬇️ Predictable plot
✅ HEA
❌ Overdramatic at times, everything would be solved if they just talked
❌ Some inconsistencies and contradictory information
(for example, regarding the chosen, the acceptance and rejection, they can have another chosen but only then can't because their soul splits and they are driven insane?!)
Book #3 of 3
🆗 Different beings, several worlds
✅ Demons, witches, shifthers, humans,...
🆗 Academy
✅ Potions
🆗 FMC: human, weaker than all the other supernaturals, aptitude for potions (family trade)
✅ MMC: powerful demon crown prince, heir, complete sweetheart regarding the FMC, tortured soul, strong and silent, puppy for the FMC, always so careful because he is afraid of scaring her away, always respectful, her freewill and well being are his top priorities
🆗 Slow burn romance
✅ Bond
✅ Hurt her and you die
✅ Friendship
✅ Learning to stand up for yourself even if everyone thinks you are weak and powerless
❌ Miscommunication (kinda): unspoken secret
⬇️ Hurt & anguish
⬇️ Feel of forbidden/rejected love
⬇️ Pride
⬇️ Predictable plot
✅ HEA
❌ Overdramatic at times, everything would be solved if they just talked
❌ Some inconsistencies and contradictory information
(for example, regarding the chosen, the acceptance and rejection, they can have another chosen but only then can't because their soul splits and they are driven insane?!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 22, 2024
Overall a decent ending, if not a little lackluster. I would have enjoyed some plot twists, but the book really wrapped up in a very typical way. No huge issues, stesightforward plot and plan.
Mind you, it was not badly written, just a little too straight forward for a finale in my opinion.
I truly liked all the side characters, but Candice and Janet were not it for me. Janet seems to always have a stick up her but, and Candice was forever so, SO insecure. I enjoyed it, for the most part on the first 2 books, but by this point I was just trying to breath through her utter ridiculousness and insecurity.
Bea? Great.
Manuela? Cool.
Thompson? What a cinnamon roll
Stassi? Need more.
Jarron? Beautifully broody
Good series overall. I ate it up eagerly, and had trouble putting it down, which is always the goal isn't it? To get so lost in a story you forget reality.
Mind you, it was not badly written, just a little too straight forward for a finale in my opinion.
I truly liked all the side characters, but Candice and Janet were not it for me. Janet seems to always have a stick up her but, and Candice was forever so, SO insecure. I enjoyed it, for the most part on the first 2 books, but by this point I was just trying to breath through her utter ridiculousness and insecurity.
Bea? Great.
Manuela? Cool.
Thompson? What a cinnamon roll
Stassi? Need more.
Jarron? Beautifully broody
Good series overall. I ate it up eagerly, and had trouble putting it down, which is always the goal isn't it? To get so lost in a story you forget reality.
June 16, 2023
🌶🌶
Paranormal
Paranormal Hunger Games
Strong FMC
Mystery/Suspense
Man, Candice is badass!! She is so strong & determined. Her friends are so loyal to her. She may not have magic, but yet again, she shows she is not powerless. Strength comes in many forms & she taps into those well.
Can we just talk about the moment in "her house". The long awaited claiming. The chemistry they have built through all three books, and though it was explicit, it was well done and just what this series needed.
The twists & turns that started in book one continued all the way til the end of this book. I loved that I wasn't exactly sure how it would wrap up & I loved the good redemption storyline thrown in as well.
Paranormal
Paranormal Hunger Games
Strong FMC
Mystery/Suspense
Man, Candice is badass!! She is so strong & determined. Her friends are so loyal to her. She may not have magic, but yet again, she shows she is not powerless. Strength comes in many forms & she taps into those well.
Can we just talk about the moment in "her house". The long awaited claiming. The chemistry they have built through all three books, and though it was explicit, it was well done and just what this series needed.
The twists & turns that started in book one continued all the way til the end of this book. I loved that I wasn't exactly sure how it would wrap up & I loved the good redemption storyline thrown in as well.
August 24, 2023
4.7⭐️ For the entire series!!
Review for the entire series but no spoilers past book 1!!
I loved the plot and the MMC. Wasn’t entirely sold on Candice in the beginning but I loved the universe too much to not continue. She got better in book 2 IMO and I felt much better for her in book 3!
As a whole, I loved Jarron. I love his devotion and it killed me soooo much ab everything.
Love triangles aren’t my thing, but this was an angst tn at made me want to stop reading but continue at the same time bc I wanted to know!! I wanted to know who the first chosen was and of course you get the feeling but Candice’a self doubt gave me so much doubt I needed to read it lol.
Last book is def my fav by far! I finished this series in like less than 3.5 days if that says anything 😂
Review for the entire series but no spoilers past book 1!!
I loved the plot and the MMC. Wasn’t entirely sold on Candice in the beginning but I loved the universe too much to not continue. She got better in book 2 IMO and I felt much better for her in book 3!
As a whole, I loved Jarron. I love his devotion and it killed me soooo much ab everything.
Love triangles aren’t my thing, but this was an angst tn at made me want to stop reading but continue at the same time bc I wanted to know!! I wanted to know who the first chosen was and of course you get the feeling but Candice’a self doubt gave me so much doubt I needed to read it lol.
Last book is def my fav by far! I finished this series in like less than 3.5 days if that says anything 😂
November 16, 2023
A dose....
Alright this was captivating. I read the entire series back to back!
Candice is such a stubborn baddie that sometimes I just wanted to reach in and shake her after giving her a high five. She is finally coming around to accept that she loves her childhood friend and that he is her mate. (This is when I wanted to shake her)
It was absolute agony for me that she could not just accept him. Yes there was the sister being a slave and a bunch of other low magic students being killed for entertainment. Yes there were some very bad ppl who took advantage and enjoyed the games. But damn did all this supernatural teen drama didn't get me hooked. Lol
Loved the ending even if it was bittersweet.
Alright this was captivating. I read the entire series back to back!
Candice is such a stubborn baddie that sometimes I just wanted to reach in and shake her after giving her a high five. She is finally coming around to accept that she loves her childhood friend and that he is her mate. (This is when I wanted to shake her)
It was absolute agony for me that she could not just accept him. Yes there was the sister being a slave and a bunch of other low magic students being killed for entertainment. Yes there were some very bad ppl who took advantage and enjoyed the games. But damn did all this supernatural teen drama didn't get me hooked. Lol
Loved the ending even if it was bittersweet.
February 11, 2024
I’ve been hooked onto this series ever since the first book. Each book captivated my attention and made me want to keep reading more. I definitely will say that even though I love it, I felt like the last book just dragged the storyline on so much. Especially when it came to Candice constantly doubting if she was Jarrons mate or whether or not she wanted to be with him. Like pretty much half the book was about that. Kinda got a bit annoyed and over it. However you just have to push through to get halfway where it gets better.
I’m sad to see this series come to end. I really want Liz to get her own book and have her happy ending. She really didn’t deserve all the things she was put through.
I’m sad to see this series come to end. I really want Liz to get her own book and have her happy ending. She really didn’t deserve all the things she was put through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2024
The last installment in this series was such an addicting listen. Jarron unfortunately is not able to say much when it comes to Candice and sadly Candice just questions everything over and over again which can be very frustrating at times. But I really enjoyed many of the side characters in this series and have loved our werewolf and I would love to read more about him. I think the series overall is good and is perfect for fans who enjoy paranormal romance that is a slow burn romance, and academy reads. I really enjoyed the narrator, Krystal Hammond. I felt like she portrayed Candice, Jarron, and the other characters very well and Krystal kept me engaged throughout the entire series.
A very special thanks to Tantor Audio for the gifted copy.
A very special thanks to Tantor Audio for the gifted copy.
October 20, 2025
I really enjoyed this serious, i loved the MMC he was to die for 🥰 found some of the lingo used a bit cringy at times but others it was very tasteful. FMC made frustrating decisions… a lot… but it was necessary for the plot, although i found at times i was audibly enraged haha.
Loved how the chapters were named after a line in the chapter, and found the plot to be exciting. I couldn’t stop thinking about it falling asleep and finished the series in like a day and a half 😌😌
The tension between the main characters was amazing, and who doesn’t love a simp MMC?
Some typos I noticed especially in this book, it seemed like Beas character was maybe a different gender and was swapped last minute? Not sure though.
Overall a brilliant series and I’d recommend :)))
Loved how the chapters were named after a line in the chapter, and found the plot to be exciting. I couldn’t stop thinking about it falling asleep and finished the series in like a day and a half 😌😌
The tension between the main characters was amazing, and who doesn’t love a simp MMC?
Some typos I noticed especially in this book, it seemed like Beas character was maybe a different gender and was swapped last minute? Not sure though.
Overall a brilliant series and I’d recommend :)))
March 13, 2024
Overall I flew through this series, but book 3 kinda was the worst. We had nothing going on for 70% of the book - still enjoyed reading it, but yeah… - and then BAM BAM BAM everything happens simultaneously to all the chapters all the time and then The End. 😳
Wish the main plot point would’ve had more characters and the fluff in the middle could’ve got cut down a bit.
Also, since this is the last book I’m just gonna say they kept referring to how he attacked her sister … which is like the #1 thing they can’t do to their chosen … so like why did it take her 3 books to figure that out 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️ not a fan when something SO OBVIOUS to the audience is not seen to the main character. Makes me frustrated as the reader.
Wish the main plot point would’ve had more characters and the fluff in the middle could’ve got cut down a bit.
Also, since this is the last book I’m just gonna say they kept referring to how he attacked her sister … which is like the #1 thing they can’t do to their chosen … so like why did it take her 3 books to figure that out 🤦🏻♀️🤦🏻♀️ not a fan when something SO OBVIOUS to the audience is not seen to the main character. Makes me frustrated as the reader.
April 30, 2024
Great Storytelling
i really like the entire over-arching plot of this trilogy.
the world building is solid, the characters beautifully fleshed out, and the ending is *immensely* satisfying.
HOWEVER: for some unknown reason, no one ever invested in a proof reader! what is up with that?!
i had to dock a star for each of the books (although the first is most egregious) due to spelling and grammar errors so obvious they just whacked me right out of the fantasy.
i’m reading in digital form, but i always do, and this is not normal.
someone needs to do right by Ms Trombley and FIX THIS.
i really like the entire over-arching plot of this trilogy.
the world building is solid, the characters beautifully fleshed out, and the ending is *immensely* satisfying.
HOWEVER: for some unknown reason, no one ever invested in a proof reader! what is up with that?!
i had to dock a star for each of the books (although the first is most egregious) due to spelling and grammar errors so obvious they just whacked me right out of the fantasy.
i’m reading in digital form, but i always do, and this is not normal.
someone needs to do right by Ms Trombley and FIX THIS.
July 3, 2024
Started strong, weak ending.
It’s unfortunate that it’s ending in this manner because the story truly had potential. The slow burn was taken too far to the point where when we finally got the romance, it sort of fell flat for me. I had to push myself to finish this book and skipped many pages.
Too many plot holes and too many clichés. And no, I don’t want to hear the « This is a YA book » excuse! I have read so many YA books that have interesting premises and engaging storytelling.
Overall, this was a disappointing series. I’m even more disappointed because there was so much potential at first.
It’s unfortunate that it’s ending in this manner because the story truly had potential. The slow burn was taken too far to the point where when we finally got the romance, it sort of fell flat for me. I had to push myself to finish this book and skipped many pages.
Too many plot holes and too many clichés. And no, I don’t want to hear the « This is a YA book » excuse! I have read so many YA books that have interesting premises and engaging storytelling.
Overall, this was a disappointing series. I’m even more disappointed because there was so much potential at first.
May 29, 2023
This series😭😭
I can’t believe it’s over already, I feel like the first book was released yesterday. Although there were typos shattered throughout the book, it did not take away from the story. The pacing was good and I loved how everything that took place really meant something in the end. Literally the littlest details from the first book came back around and were explained. I don’t believe there were any loose ends.
I’m gonna miss these characters, but I look forward to seeing what the author puts out next.
I can’t believe it’s over already, I feel like the first book was released yesterday. Although there were typos shattered throughout the book, it did not take away from the story. The pacing was good and I loved how everything that took place really meant something in the end. Literally the littlest details from the first book came back around and were explained. I don’t believe there were any loose ends.
I’m gonna miss these characters, but I look forward to seeing what the author puts out next.
May 29, 2023
This was the best ending to the series. I was so all over the place while reading this series. I wanted Candice to wake up and realize she was the chosen one. I fell in love with Jarron and Candice as a couple and I knew they were perfect together. So every up and down made me want to scream and doubt myself! From the beginning to the end I could not put these books down. I read them so quickly and I am left longing for more!! I want to know what happens when they rule together and I want to know what it was like from Jarron’s point of view! Thank you Stacey for another great book series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 1, 2023
“..it was always you”. ❤️
An epic conclusion to this amazing series! Its a trilogy that its worth binge reading!!! Jarron and Candice step up their game individually and its nice to see how much they overcome - but candice fear is a b****! It still has a hard hold on her which she fights through out the book. New allies, old frenemies, bffs and one battle you dont want to miss! Plus the one thing everyone has been waiting on: will they!?? ❤️❤️❤️ super swoony!!! Ima miss my Jarron demon so much 🥹
An epic conclusion to this amazing series! Its a trilogy that its worth binge reading!!! Jarron and Candice step up their game individually and its nice to see how much they overcome - but candice fear is a b****! It still has a hard hold on her which she fights through out the book. New allies, old frenemies, bffs and one battle you dont want to miss! Plus the one thing everyone has been waiting on: will they!?? ❤️❤️❤️ super swoony!!! Ima miss my Jarron demon so much 🥹
June 3, 2023
Bummed this was the end. It left a lot to be said. There could easily be another book or two for unanswered questions or futures. Barely spicy. Could’ve been more. I loved the idea behind a potions master because it is so different from the norm. The dialogue between Candice and Jarron always gives me that spicy vibe but then it doesn’t go anywhere. Multiple times. Their bond isn’t even completed and it’s the last book. I am unsatisfied for the most part. I really want to give more stars but they would only be for Jarrons demon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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