From the first page, Lessons in Loyalty pulls you right back into the world of Ithaka, only this time the spotlight is on Lyla Stark and Bastian Lightcroft… and the sparks between them could burn the entire realm down.
Bound together by a Heartstring they never asked for, their connection is equal parts temptation and torment. Lyla, the guardian of the golden apples, stands for loyalty, truth, and the last flicker of light in a kingdom where magic is dying. Bastian? He’s secrets wrapped in shadows, the kind of man you want to hate but can’t stop wanting. Every look, every sharp remark, every unguarded moment between them only pulls you deeper into their push and pull dance.
The plot moves with a perfect mix of intrigue and tension. The evil king’s hunt for immortality sets the stage for betrayals, secret societies, and a threat that could destroy them all: the Beast of Thorns. The pacing never drags, shifting us from the academy halls into a wider, more dangerous world, and every new setting is steeped in rich, immersive detail.
What I loved most is how this book captures the balance between light and darkness in love. Lyla and Bastian don’t “complete” each other in a fairytale way. They challenge each other, sharpen each other, and sometimes break each other, and that’s exactly what makes their story addictive.

••”𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘤𝘢𝘯’𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘴 𝘯𝘰 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘴 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘥”

Holy tension 😮‍💨 This installment hits the ground running right where we left off in book 1, but with the main focus on Lyla and Bastian this time - and I think I loved them even more than Kiera and Lucien.

••”𝘉𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘓𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘤𝘳𝘰𝘧𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘢𝘳𝘯𝘢𝘵𝘦 - 𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘴𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥”

These two may smirk and verbally spar for a while but they aren’t fooling anybody - they are hopelessly drawn to each other. I enjoyed every second of their push and pull, and especially loved the revelations in Bastian’s pov. The man is a secret softie and I couldn’t get enough.

•• “𝘞𝘩𝘺 𝘥𝘰 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘤𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭?”
“𝘽𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙗𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙢 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙤𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙. 𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩…𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙠𝙚𝙨 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙚”

There’s an overall theme of love finding a way to balance the light and darkness in each character and this continuation is truly beautiful. The more Lyla and Bastian give in to their connection, the stronger they become individually and as a couple. They perfect each other, round out the sharp edges, and truly see each other - just as their Heartstring intended.

•• “𝘠𝘰𝘶’𝘳𝘦 𝘨𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘦, 𝘧𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭. 𝘋𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘱”

Our main storyline gets a little more complex, but never feels drawn out. We don’t get much of the academy life like in the first book, but the world opens up and I enjoyed the change of scenery. There isn’t a rough cliffhanger but you’re still left hungry for more, which is a nice change of pace. I can’t wait for more of this story and to peel back the layers of more of these characters!

You can expect:
• 𝗚𝗿𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗺𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗼𝗴𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗴 (𝗔𝗱𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘀 + 𝗔𝗽𝗵𝗿𝗼𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗲)
• 𝗚𝗿𝘂𝗺𝗽𝘆 𝘃𝘀 𝘀𝘂𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗲
• 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝘆 - 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘄
• 𝗠𝗮𝗴𝗶𝗰 𝗮𝗰𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗺𝘆
• 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘁 𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀
• 𝗩𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗴𝗶𝗿𝗹
• 𝗣𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 / 𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻
• 𝗥𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗮𝘁 - 𝗼𝗽𝗲𝗻 𝗱𝗼𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲

Another Masterclass in Storytelling!

Once again, this author has delivered an absolute knockout! It's rare to find a series that consistently hits all the right notes, but these books never disappoint, and this latest installment is no exception.

My absolute favorite aspect, as always, is the world-building. The sheer depth and intricacy that goes into crafting these settings is truly breathtaking. Every detail feels meticulously thought out, creating a rich, immersive backdrop that pulls you in completely. I find myself getting lost in the unique cultures, the fascinating history, and the vibrant landscapes – it's a testament to the author's incredible imagination.

Beyond the magnificent world, the heart of this story truly shone through its characters. The chemistry between the two central characters was simply phenomenal. Watching their relationship develop, their individual struggles, and their combined journey unfold was an absolute joy. Their interactions felt so genuine, sparked with wit and emotion, making them incredibly relatable and easy to root for. Their story was beautifully woven into the larger narrative, adding so much depth and heart to the overall experience.

And as for the plot and overall story, it's exactly what I've come to expect and love from this series. Full of compelling twists, unexpected turns, and a narrative drive that keeps you eagerly glued to the pages. This author always manages to craft a gripping tale that's both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

In short, this was a fantastic read from start to finish. If you're a fan of incredible world-building, captivating characters with undeniable chemistry, and a consistently brilliant storyline, you absolutely need to dive into this series. Highly, highly recommended!

Ever king has done it again!
Obsessed doesn't cover how I feel about this book. It felt like a true enemies to lovers brought together by the heartstring.
I really wanted to hate Bastion but as the book progressed you learn there is so many layers to him and you end up rooting for him by the end. I am falling more and more in love with this series the more I read. Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC.

i love Bastian and Layla together. So sweet. This book i liked more then the first one. Which was also great. But the chemistry between all the characters felt more real this time around. Can't wait to read the rest of the series

Thank you so much for another ARC and another amazing story! This is the second book in the series! They are interconnected and must be read it order but I love how they are about different characters! In this story we learn much more about Bastian (& bits and pieces of the rest of the Raven society) as well as Lyla (& we get more of Kiara and Octavia) I really enjoyed both Bastian and Lyla coming together and the things they go through and have to overcome! I also loved all the little elements that totally gave me sailor moon vibes 🥰 Ever King does great job of setting us up for the next book and I am SO excited for that couple!

I really like this series so far! Each book just adds another layer and makes you want more!
I really love the concepts of these books and I always love a mythology retelling. Lessons in Loyalty continues to show us the wonderful found family, strong FMC and morally grey MMC (albeit different FMC and MMC’s) that I fell in love with in book 1!
I love the magic system and the connection to time it has.
I love how King so seamlessly continues the story from book 1 while focusing on a new main couple. I can’t wait to see what happens in book 3!

Ever King is an absolute beast when it comes to lore and world building. Book 2 gave more of both, and I so enjoyed reading it after book 1!

Lyla and Bastian, wow they're relationship really bloomed! The snarky banter was 10/10 for me, I absolutely adored it. Bastian's softness for Lyla, Lyla growing into such a badass by the end of the book, ugh it was perfection.

I also really enjoyed the friendships, the girl gang, and how those relationships evolved! Lyla's growth with Octavia and Kiara was so inspiring, and I'm so stoked to see where it all leads in book 3!

Oh book 3, you're on my mind constantly now just waiting for me to read. I cannot wait to see what comes next!

Thank you SO much to Ever King for the opportunity to ARC read.

Lessons in Loyalty continues the adventure and mayhem from the first part of the series. But this time, we follow the enigmatic Bastian and the loving Lyla. Based on yet another Greek mythology-inspired couple, the author expands this multi-layered story set in a richly immersive world.

The characters
The characters in this story are definitely my favourite part. Bastian is similar to Lucian; mysterious, dark aura and is full of secrets. He's intelligent, cunning, and a master in chemistry. You see much of Aphrodite in Lyla: beautiful, graceful, kind, and elegant. As a flowermage, her powers might be underestimated, but throughout the story, we see how powerful she actually can be. She is not a damsel in distress, but she gladly is when she opens her heart to Bastian. At first, Bastian and Lyla can't stand each other. But various factors contribute to their growing attraction to each other, and before you know it, they are each other's safe haven. Their protectiveness over each other is adorable and heartwarming. Their interactions and gestures are tense and romantic. With some witty remarks and delightful banter, they know how to keep the other on their toes.

Besides our main protagonist, we get to know more about some side characters. Bastian has his brothers in the Raven Society, and when reading his pov, we get to know how much he cares about them and how strong their bond is. I loved how we got to see the growing bond between Lyla, Kiara, and Octavia. They form a powerful trio, and they find true friendship in each other. These little moments of friendship and camaraderie break the continuous tension of this story.

The story
The magical system of this book is incredible! We learn new kinds of magic and rules that come with it. Together with the students, we explore the limitations and potential of this magic. Again, there are mysteries to be solved and quests to embark on. It will leave you hooked and wanting to devour this book in one sitting. The subtle Greek mythology references make it easier for you to imagine the whole lore, serving as a kind of anchor points. The balance between the plot and romance is perfect in my opinion. At times, they go hand in hand, and sometimes the protagonists have their own battles to conquer. But when they collide, it is magnificent. There was a little less action, but the tension is now created by the secrets this world holds.

Conclusion
Rating: 4.8/5
Vibes and feels: emerald green, dark academia, mysterious, deception, tension, warmth, morally grey, banter, secretivity, politics, immersive.
Thank you so much, Ever King, for reaching out to me to read and review the first book. I fell in love with it and I can't wait to read the next instalment in this series.

Even better than the first! This series has me reading these books so fast and then leaving me waiting wanting more. I have loved every character no matter how good or flawed they appear. Lyla and Bastian are amazingly perfect and good for each other. Their relationship starts off rocky but they can’t deny the pull between them. Can’t wait for the rest of the series.

Ever King has created a unique series, blending Dark Academia and Greek Mythology. I abrolutely adore Ever's writing style and this series is so fascinating, this one is just as good and exciting as the first book!!

I read this as an eARC, thank you Netgalley and the author Ever King and I'm voluntarily reviewing this book.

This book picks up after the last one ends and seamlessly segues into following Bastian and Lyla’s story as the main focus. I have to say right from the start I adore these two characters, the banter, the tension, the desire, strength, foibles and determination of them both - chefs kiss perfect!

The story continues on with the Starmarked Warriors and the Ravens both searching for answers. I love the development of the characters as they grow into their roles in this book. The world building also continues with new information being discovered and easily blended into the ongoing story. The political tensions of the House families at court bubbles away, dividing loyalties within the Academy. And the addition of the witches and what they can do, their history and possible future is just tantalising with potential, I can't wait to find out more about them.

Add into the mix discovering hidden magical artifacts, developing untapped and forbidden powers, secret locations around the Academy and outside the wards with little side quests for some of the characters, it all had me racing through the pages desperately needing to find answers.

And now I am left bereft waiting for the next installment!

The wicked King of Ithaka will do anything to gain every magic in his palms. Now, he is targeting a set of golden apples, a mythical fruit that whoever eats will gain immortality. He unleashed the Beast of Thorns to gain the apples. The apple is located in the Academy of Magic greenhouse, which is guarded by Lyla Stark. Since the beginning, she has been mysterious as Spring itself and drawn Bastian Lightcroft, one of the Ravens. Everything they meet, everything feels strange, and they start developing friendships, even more. Each of the hiding something dark. They wonder if they should tell each other because once the truths are revealed, they can never be forgiven…

Lesson in Loyalty is the second book in the Academy of Villains series. The story more focus on romance and the exploration of the Ithaka Kingdom. The world exploration is combined with treasure hunter vibes.

Of course, it’s still the villain who gets the girl, but the romance is pretty intense and the tragedy plus betrayal is very deep.

To be honest for a couple, I like Kiara x Lucian more than the main couple in this story. The story and romance type are drastically changed from the first book and slow-paced one. As for combat fighting is still feels lack of action for me. I mean it needs more movement added especially for Bastian, because I feel Dorian's combat fighting movement and style are more stand out than his. Also, the story needs more elements of surprise when fighting the villain. I still like this book, but I ship Kiara x Lucian more. I am looking forward to the next book.

Lessons in Loyalty is book two of Ever King's Academy of Villains series. Each book in the series will feature a couple inspired by Greek Mythology with this book focusing on Adonis and Aphrodite.

If you haven't read Academy of Villains, what are you doing!? Go add it to your TBR now and come back after to read this review. ♡

This story focuses on Lyla and Bastian with the occasional POV from Kiara and Lucian. Lyla is a forestmage attending the Academy of Magic. She lives in the greenhouse tending to the plants. Bastian is a member of the raven society, an alchemist, and a weapon of the corrupt king. He is given a task by the Beast of Thorns to steal a golden apple for the king. Along with the secrets Bastian holds close, Lyla uncovers truths that were meant to stay hidden that will reshape everything she has believed in.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I loved this book so much. The world-building is perfection. We get just enough detail about the world of Ithaka without any confusion about the places or creatures. The academy is the main setting, however, we begin discovering just enough of Ithaka to get fully immersed: the village of Sablewick, Pandora, Fatewood Forest, and the River Lethe. I can see these places and the scenes clearly in my mind when I think back to them. We were introduced to new creatures. My favorite was the barkling which was a tiny wooden creature that lived in the greenhouse and was protective of Lyla.

The magic system is expanding. Not only do we see the use of the mage's grimoires, but also charm cards, runes, and ancient uncontrollable magic. We are also discovering other magical beings, witches and nymphs.

I loved Lyla and Bastian's characters. Their first main encounter in Lyla's bedroom has me smiling like a fool the entire scene. Bastian spends a lot of time trying to protect Lyla from himself and the things that scare him. Lyla's entire vibe feels innocent which I think is a huge advantage. She is strong, ambitious, and destined for power.

Here are three Bastian quotes with no context that had me falling in love with this man:

“I’m proud of you,”

"One more ghost for my grimoire."

“Bastian groans, dragging me closer, like he can’t get enough."

I knew from the moment I finished Academy of Villains that this was going to be one that would live in my head rent-free. Lessons in Loyalty has exceeded my expectations which I didn't even think was possible. I can't wait to read what comes next!

dark academia • dark fantasy • dark romance • fated love • found family • greek mythology • grumpy x sunshine • magic • mythology • retelling • rivals to lovers • romantasy • secret society

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!

I love this series- so excited for book 3!

While I loved Kiara & Lucien’s story, Lyla grabbed my attention in book 1. Getting her story has been everything I needed. I feel like this might be a case of book 2 is better than book 1.

If you’re on the fence about reading this series, just do it! Dark academia, drama, romance, & a Greek mythology link- what more could a reader need?!?

What a second book. The perfect continuation from the first one. I’m falling in love with the characters more and more. A must read series absolutely brilliant

So, this review is massively overdue, because I somehow was convinced I’d already posted it!! I know. I’m so sorry.

What can I say about Lessons in Loyalty that I haven’t already said about Academy of Villains? That I loved it ? Already said that then. That the dark vibe is just gothic enough to make my heart pound, without versing into horror (I’m a wimp, can’t do horror)? Yup, I said that before as well.

Thankfully, this second instalment in the series is packed to the brim with goodness, so I won’t have to look too far for something else to tell you.

First of all, Bastian. Oh my gosh, Bastian! Do you like a morally grey man, full of vulnerabilities and absolute devotion, who doesn’t let himself hope but still somehow does, who will do ANYTHING (and I mean anything) to protect those he loves? If you do, than go no further, this is your man. (Well, not really, cause he’s Lyla’s!)

And I do adore her as well. Put it simply, I wanted to hug her for the whole of the novel. I think I’m a little bit in love with her too. She’s so nurturing, and while she’s what you’d probably describe as a “soft” character, her strength of caring makes her want to be strong for others, as well as herself. And she is SO strong in the end.

The chemistry between them is off the charts. You thought Kiera and Lucian had it bad for each other ? Well, Bastian and Lyla make them look like repressed school kids. These two will make you believe in unconditional love if nothing else does.

Then there’s the creepiest villain ever, seriously she makes my skin crawl, there’s that really weird vibe about her and her hold over Bastian is just creepy (yes, I know I’ve said this already, but it bears repeating. Creepy creepy creepy!!!) Which, let’s face it, is exactly what we want in a villain.

The setting continue to be on of the strongest points in the story, dark academia x greek myth inspiration, done really well, skirting neither too close not too far to the original. More an inspiration than a retelling really. What really does pick up in this one are the Sailor moon vibes, which are so much stronger I felt, as we learn so much more about the star marked warriors.

OK this is already too long so I won’t talk aout the side quest, the river Lethe, the witches, the portals… You’ll just have to discover all that yourself.

I do feel the series will continue to go from strength to strength, I can already tell there is soo much more to come and I can’t wait to discover more about the world and the secret history.

Fingers crossed we’ll get Octavia’s story next…

Thank you NetGalley and Ever King for the ARC

I think I loved this even more than the first book. While I loved getting glimpses of Kiara and Lucien again, Lyla and Bastian stole my heart. I love the world building and the interweaving of the Greek Myth retellings with strong FMCs. Having a core female friend group, where Lyla, Kiara and Octavia are able to trust and rely on each other, and trust in their own strengths and selves, and become stronger people because of it, is so well written and such a key part to found family. I can’t wait for the next book in the series, I’m hoping it will be either Dorian or Tobias’s story next.

Thanks so much to Ever King and Everkingdom for the eARC of this book. I loved diving back into this world! the pacing was better then the first and I loved that, I love this greek mythology world. This second book did not disappoint.

How I LOVE stepping into this Greek mythology-inspired world! Lessons in Loyalty is book two of the Academy of Villains series and it does not disappoint.

The story picks up where book one ends and follows Lyla and Bastian as the MCs this time- more magic, more drama, more secrets and more intrigue as we delve deeper into the mysteries surrounding the kingdom.

Thanks to being part of the Royal Court and to NetGalley I received an e-ARC and now I am counting down the days until book three is released!