Take a photo of a barcode or cover
A review by backwardsbookshelf
Academy of Villains - Nyx & Erebus by Ever King
4.0
Academy of Villains is a compelling opening to the Academy series. King skilfully weaves Greek mythology into a magical academy setting. At its heart is Kiara, a former assassin hiding an extraordinary magical gift. Tasked with infiltrating the academy to eliminate Prince Lucian—a cursed royal whose fate is entwined with the kingdom’s deepest secrets—her mission takes unexpected turns.
Kings' world building of the academy’s atmosphere was beautifully crafted as I could visually picture the scenes from her descriptions. The integration of secret societies and a meticulously crafted magic system deepens the suspense and enriches the plot.
A central thread of the narrative is Kiara’s dynamic with Lucian, an intricate blend of enemies-to-lovers tension and heartfelt emotional depth. Kiara’s moral conflict and Lucian’s protective, enigmatic nature add layers to their relationship. However, their bond develops a bit too quickly, missing moments that could have strengthened the emotional impact.
The boys of the Raven Society remain somewhat underexplored, though this seems intentional—likely setting the stage for deeper development in future installments of the Academy of Villains series.
Overall, Academy of Villains' dark academic atmosphere, compelling romance, and morally complex characters make me eager to continue with the next installment, Lessons in Loyalty, releasing later this year.
Kings' world building of the academy’s atmosphere was beautifully crafted as I could visually picture the scenes from her descriptions. The integration of secret societies and a meticulously crafted magic system deepens the suspense and enriches the plot.
A central thread of the narrative is Kiara’s dynamic with Lucian, an intricate blend of enemies-to-lovers tension and heartfelt emotional depth. Kiara’s moral conflict and Lucian’s protective, enigmatic nature add layers to their relationship. However, their bond develops a bit too quickly, missing moments that could have strengthened the emotional impact.
The boys of the Raven Society remain somewhat underexplored, though this seems intentional—likely setting the stage for deeper development in future installments of the Academy of Villains series.
Overall, Academy of Villains' dark academic atmosphere, compelling romance, and morally complex characters make me eager to continue with the next installment, Lessons in Loyalty, releasing later this year.