A book set in a magical school, a magic system based on tarot and enemies to lovers? Absolutely made for me.

I don’t even know where to start. I was absolutely transfixed by that ending.
I really, really wanted to hate Kaelis I kind of still do! It is the perfect Romantasy book, if you can call it romance!
I connected with the characters, the spells, the houses.
I thought the plot was so well thought out, and I couldn’t read it fast enough.

I feel like Del Rey are smashing it at the moment.
Thanks to NetGalley and Del Rey for the arc, but please can I have the second book immediately?!

5 stars.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.

Imagine taking the setting of Hogwarts, adding in the magic of One Dark Window and then giving it a pinch of the ruthlessness and romance from Fourth Wing - yeah, that's what this book feels like. And it was absolutely stunning.

I loved reading this book. The magic system was so interesting, different and beautifully made. It worked really well and I loved the fighting scenes where you got to see how the cards could be used in action. I also think the academy setting was done very well, giving us glimpses of her everyday life without dragging and becoming too repetitive. The sprinkle of desire, plotting, fights and revelations throughout was perfect.

The tension between our two main characters was delicious, and I think they were both really fun and great to read about. The build-up was really good, however I do think the execution of the actual spicy scenes could have been a little better. They were over so quickly and you couldn't FEEL it the same way you could everything leading up to it. I just wanted... more.
SPOILER INCOMING:
And when she finally spends the night with him afterwards, it was absolutely criminal that that scene wasn't shown. They had been dancing around their feelings for so long, denying anything more real than just the physical - and when they finally acknowledge it and decide to be vulnerable with each other, we don't get to be there and read about it? I was honestly a little mad and quite disappointed, because it was so monumental for both of them and their story, and it would have been so easy to include. But that was my only real complaint throughout the book.
END OF SPOILER.

I think Clara was such a great protagonist. She was determined, confident, talented and fiercely loyal, and I really enjoyed her POV. I would love to get some scenes from Kaelis's POV as well at some point, because that man is down bad! Hopefully we get to see that in the next one. And speaking of which: I am looking SO much forward to it! The ending in this one was so cool and I can't wait to continue the journey and find out what happens next. I will be thinking about this one for a long time!

*thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*

I really enjoyed Arcana Academy Chronicles by Elise Kova. The world-building is vivid, the magic system is fascinating, and the characters are both relatable and compelling. The story is packed with action, emotion, and twists that kept me hooked from start to finish. The dynamics between the students and the secrets of the Academy made it all the more engaging. If you love magical academy stories with great characters and a touch of mystery, this is a fantastic read!this was a first book for me by this author and definitely won't be my last!

The ending?!??

This is by far the best book I’ve read this year. FMC is broken out of prison by MMC and enrolled at his magic academy, whilst also becoming his ‘betrothed’. MMC needs her and her magic to help overthrow the king (essentially)

The magic system in this - love. I’ve never read a book with a magic system based on tarot cards, and it felt really unique and refreshing in a sea of other fantasy novels. I loved the fight scenes and how they used the cards during it - it really added to the visuals and made the fights seem really fast paced.

The world building was really well done. Like explaining the tarot system and the lore of the series was a lot, but it never felt heavy. The author really found an excellent balance of world building and forward moving plot.

The relationship was perfect. I love a slow burn, and the enemies to lovers (not quite there yet) was well done. It’s too often that a couple is ‘enemies’ for a chapter and then are immediately all over each other. It was really well paced here. I did however find myself thinking a few times ‘use your words!’ - like please just talk to each other!

I am somewhat devastated I need to wait over a year for the next book, because I need to know immediately what happens next.

Thanks for Netgalley for the ARC

⋆｡°✩ ᴀʀᴄ ʙᴏᴏᴋ ʀᴇᴀᴅ ✩°｡⋆

ᴛɪᴛʟᴇ : Arcana Academy
ᴀᴜᴛʜᴏʀ : Elisa Kova

W.o.w. I really enjoyed this book! Admittedly i haven't read any of Elisa's books, which yes is a TRADGY but I'm so glad I got to read this ARC.

Arcana Academy has a very unique use of magic, Tarot Cards. I found this so fascinating and super unique, not something i had read before. (I love new stuff!) It did confuse me a little at the first, but eventually i finally started understanding all the cards and what they do. (Only to find out there is a Gloassry at the end. LOL)

Clara, a strong driven women. I really like her strength and the way she holds herself. Her family values and belief in herself is brill. Kaelis, now he was something! You could see his inner turmoil the whole way, to be the enemy he thinks he is born to be. These two … FIRE, the tension ripples off of them.

There is a lot of foreshadowing that you don't notice until the story unravels later on. So keep an eye out for stuff!

I really really enjoyed this book and wholly recommend it to everyone! 5/5.

I absolutely loved this book. Despite knowing nothing about tarot, it didn't take long for me to understand the magic system—it's complex enough to be interesting and unusual but simple enough to be quickly comprehensible. The development of Clara and Kaelis's relationship and motivations was really well done, and the conflict was well paced. I will certainly be continuing to read the series, and I highly recommend Arcana Academy to all fans of fantasy with mystery, unique magic systems, romance, and heists.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing my ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Arcana Academy is going to be THE romantasy of 2025, let me tell you. When I say my jaw is on the floor.

Dark academia
Intricate magic system
Fake engagement
Enemies to lovers
One Dark Window x Harry Potter but make it 🌶️

This was somehow both refreshing and familiar, and it made for an utterly enchanting read. I absolutely loved every aspect of this book. The world-building is rich, and the magic system is well fleshed out and intricate, with a unique premise of magic wielding.

Clara is an Arcanist, she’s fiery and independent and fiercely loyal, and after being imprisoned for illegally inking tarot cards, finds herself joining the Arcana Academy as a first-year student and “betrothed” to Prince Kaelis, the very man Clara suspects of being the man who killed her mother, in a bid to take down everyone has wronged her people and find her sister. And I am OBSESSED with this pairing — I can’t wait to see how their relationship develops in the next book.

The cliffhanger in this book is absolutely CRIMINAL. And I cannot express how excited I am for everyone else to experience the first instalment in what I’m certain is going to be an insanely popular series.

An endless thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this bloody masterpiece.

4.5⭐

Thank you Elise Kova and Hodderscape for the ARC!

Arcana Academy is the first installment in Elise Kova's Arcana Academy Trilogy, set in a dark world filled with magic and secrets, perfect for fans of Caraval and One Dark Window.

This was a great fantasy read and had me hooked surprisingly very easily and early on. I could not put the book down at all and finished it in two sittings.

The magic system in this book was deep and intricate. I found it to be very interesting and the world-building was amazingly done. The tarot card wielding system is my most favourite magic system and it was done amazingly here!

The secrets and mysteries around the story were not brief but very intricate and intriguing. Every word and question seems like a mystery needed to be unfolded. The plot-twists took me off by surprise from the way that the author had us running like sleuths.

The romance was enemies to lovers and he was the second prince and she was a former inmate. There was so much tension and angst between them and the solid chemistry between them sealed it out perfectly.

The revelations and the ending had me screaming to the pillow. Overall, it was an amazing fantasy read with strong-willed protagonists, angst and a perfect blend of mystery and romance.

I'll definitely be continuing this series and I can't wait for the sequel!

Where do i even begin. This book was incredible. I knew from the synopsis alone that it was going to be a 5 star read from me- magic school setting? check. enemies to lovers? check. unique magic system? check. TAROT CARDS? CHECK.

Arcana Academy had everything I love in fantasy romance and there was absolutely zero chance that i would not love this book.

The book begins with Clara Graysword imprisoned at Halazar for inking tarot cards without the proper requirements to do so. Enter Kaelis Oricalis, prince of the Oricalis Kingdom and headmaster of Arcana Academy - where archanists learn how to read, ink, and wield tarot cards. Their lives get entangled when Clara ends up at Arcana Academy and from there a delicious and yearnful slow burn enemies to lovers begins.

Not only was the romance top teir, the world and its magic system was so fleshed out and thoughtfully explained, it is truly the most unique and interesting magic system i have ever read about.

Between the characters and the magic system and the world, the plot was so well developed it kept me gripped from page one. All of the elements worked so well with each other in this book and I am so sad there is nothing else in this series to read right now (especially after that ending).

Wow! This dark academia romantasy really gripped me from the start, it’s high stakes from the get go! Totally unique tarot based magic system, shadow wielding headmaster, deadly trials and slooooow burn enemies to lovers with a side of fake engagement 🔥 Thank you Hodderscape for this arc! I loved every twist and turn if this and can’t wait for book 2!

We follow the story of Clara an illegal arcanist and her journey to uncover the secrets of her family and take revenge on their fate. To do so she must enter Arcana Academy and make a deal with Kaelis the headmaster..who is also the man she holds responsible for her mother’s death.

The magic system in this is completely unlike anything I’ve seen before. I loved this tarot based magic, the concept of wielding cards as weapons was so incredibly unique and complex and honestly I now want to go out and find a deck! The idea of layering different cards to wield and not to mention the process of inking the cards on top of the traditional reading of them, fully captivating!


✨ Dark Academia
✨ Trials
✨ Tarot Magic
✨ Fake Engagement
✨ Forced Proximity
✨ Slow Burn
✨ Enemies to Lovers

Thank you for this eARC!

After being imprisoned for a year for illegally practising tarot-based magic, Clara is freed by Prince Kaelis, only to be forced to work with him to ink the most powerful tarot card—the World.

Clara as a protagonist is fascinating—strong, but completely out of her depth. Focussed on her goal of finding her sister, but distracted by a hundred other duties and promises. Untrusting, cynical but never defeatist. She felt like a real person, and one I always rooted for.

Kaelis was an interesting character—I wanted to know more about him, and didn’t get answers about his motivations until quite late in the book. I wasn’t initially a fan of the relationship between him and Clara, but the more his secrets were revealed (and the more page-time his cat received) the more I was sold on it.

I really enjoyed the magic system—especially with the unfolding of the major arcana, and the cost of using those powers. I love magic that comes with a price and thought this was a really original spin on it.

The plot required some suspension of disbelief (especially Clara’s escape from prison) but it was fast-paced and never lost my interest. I’ll definitely pick up the sequel when it comes out!

"If to bring about a new world - a better world - I must be the villain, if I must do evil things for the greater good, then so be it. I'll play the part now and be reborn a hero in my next life."

Another book has joined my favourites list. Arcana Academy is outstanding! It is descriptive and immersive. I love the concept of magic being tied to tarot cards with the different cards having different effects. The definitions of the different cards at the back is a very welcome addition.
This is definitely a slow burn enemies to lovers - which I love. Clara and Kaelis, with that ending, I really need to know what is next for them.
As well as I need more information on her last name and why it is such a secret. I have suspicions, of course, but hopefully more gets revealed in book 2 because you know I am eagerly anticipating it now.

If you love magic schools, this one is for you.

I loveeeddd this book! I'm a sucker for fantasy magic school vibes, and add in an enemies to lovers romance plot and I'm hooked. The concept of harnessing magic through tarot cards was fascinating to read and I particularly loved the card wielding scenes. I can't wait for the sequel!

This book has simply reminded me why Elise Kova is one of my favourite authors and an auto buy. Holy crap I devoured this. Not only was it easy to read, but I found myself not wanting to put it down. Gripping in the best way.

From the very first page, I was absolutely enchanted—drawn into a richly imagined world where magic lives and breathes through tarot cards, and where danger and desire are two sides of the same coin.

Clara is a protagonist you can’t help but root for: stubborn, smart, scarred, and endlessly determined. Her voice carries the story with strength and heart, and experiencing this new world through her eyes made the dense, intricate lore feel effortless to absorb. I never once felt lost, even as Elise Kova introduced layer upon layer of history, politics, and arcane rules.

The tarot-based magic system is, in a word, brilliant. Basing the magic on reading, inking, and wielding tarot cards was not only creative but also executed with precision and clarity. It gave the book a unique flavor that set it apart from any other fantasy I’ve read. Every card had weight, every ritual meaning, and every choice consequence. It’s the kind of system that feels lived-in and believable, with so much potential to expand in future books.

And then… Kaelis. Brooding, brilliant, morally gray perfection. The push-and-pull between him and Clara had me screaming into my pillow—their chemistry is pure fire. Their relationship is complex, deeply emotional, and gorgeously slow-burn. And yes, the romance absolutely delivered, with moments that made my heart race, ache, and soar all at once. If you love tension-filled, enemies-to-lovers dynamics with a dash of royalty, betrayal, and forbidden longing—this is it.

But what truly elevates this book is that it’s not just a romance, or just a magic school setting—it’s a political chessboard, a coming-of-age story, a heist, and a rebellion-in-the-making, all rolled into one. From the high-stakes academy trials to the jaw-dropping final act, I was hooked. I didn’t want to eat, sleep, or do anything but keep reading.

By the time I hit that final page? I was wrecked. That cliffhanger?? I don’t even have words. Elise Kova, how dare you—and also thank you, because this might be one of my favorite series starters ever.

Elise Kova, you had me at "Magical school", "tarot" and "Slow Burn"... but you kept me with Prince Kaelis!
"There is no world in which you do not consume my very being"

My lord what a book. What an ending?!

I knew I would love this book from page 1, but I don't think I was prepared for the hold this book now has on me. I need book 2, like yesterday.

My thanks to Elise Kova, the publishing team and Netgalley for allowing me to read this. Can't wait get the physical copy in my hands <3

I bet you read the blurb and thought "I know what's going to happen". I bet you saw "engaged to a Prince who is also a Headteacher" and thought this was trope overload. I bet you thought "it's just another romantasy, it can't be that special".

You're wrong.

You have no idea what's going to happen, because just as you think you do something spins you around until you're dizzy and realise the plot has shifted in an entirely new direction. You will fall in love with Prince Kaelis and begin to understand why this world would sit a Prince in such an unlikely position, and how important it is. And most importantly you will learn that the Arcana Academy is incredibly special and the journey you're about to go on will blow your mind.

The way the magic of this world is linked to tarot is absolutely genius and well crafted - I adored how integrated it is into the very fabric of the world. The characters are flawed, beautiful, and entirely three dimensional, meaning you will happily go from screaming at them to kiss to wanting to give them a good slap in the matter of pages. The spice, whilst certainly heightened by the slow burn, is delicious and will leave you (and Clara) wanting more.

Whether you're a fan of Dark Academia, Romantasy, unique magic systems, tension-filled romances, or all of the above - this is a book you need to read.

This is an intoxicating mix of Dark Academia and Romantasy with the most unique magic you've ever read!

Thank you Net Galley & Hodder & Stoughton for the opportunity to read this early!

This was everything you could ever want in a fantasy book - Found Family, Prison breakout, secrets and rivals and a magic school!
The magic system was so refreshingly different - took a minute to figure it out but its such a good system - the world building is excellently done.
There was couple of points where i thought it was a little slow, but after finishing i realise its all relevant and it gave me time to understand the world a bit better.
I wasn't completely sold on the love interest at first - I felt like he could of worked harder to win her over.
Lots of Harry Potter/One Dark window vibes and a sprinkle of Throne of Glass!

Can't wait to see where the story goes after that ending i have so many questions!

This could be THE fantasy of the year! Everything was so well-written and the pacing never let up! The magic system and worldbuilding were unique without becoming tedious or unoriginal.
Read it for the romance (quite spicey!), found family, magical academia/dark academia with trials and fake engagement.

This book put me through so many emotions. The magic system was so unique, I never read something with this kind of magic before. I absolutely loved it, it was such an amazing story.

Arcana Academy was founded to teach and control Arcanists, those who have the ability to ink, read and wield tarot cards and their magic. Power only reserved for those under the crown.
Clara was imprisoned for using it illegally. Until Prince Kaelis, dark and enigmatic headmaster of the academy, helps her escape, gives her a new name and a place in his academy as a first year student. She will be his bride-to-be and help him steal the tarot cards from his father, cards that are key in creating a powerful card, a card that can change worlds. He is her enemy, one she swore to hate, but there is more to him than it seems. Some choices will be hard to make.

I absolutely loved Kaelis, it's always the tortured souls that get me. He and Clara fought so hard against their feelings, it made me want more of them.
But this book was so much more than that, with the trials Clara had to go through at the academy, the heist, the secrets. Clara was strong and determined, but so stubborn. I loved her even when she drove me crazy.

I'm not gonna lie, the beginning was slow, it took me a while to get into the book, but once I did, it didn't let go. I was consumed by it.
I have so many questions still, I simply don't know how I'm going to survive until book two. That ending...
I promised myself I would stop starting series that aren't finished, but here I am, yet again, with questions I won't get answers to for quite some time. I can't make myself regret it tho, I loved this book far too much for that.

Arcana Academy instantly sucked me in with its interesting world and magic system. It feels like it's been set up so well for the magic and lore to develop even further in the sequels, and for so many twists and turns to come in the story! The world and the magic feels so well thought out and complete. Basing the magic system on tarot was ingenious and I love that the Academy focuses equally on reading, inking and wielding the cards. Our main character, Clara, is particularly skilled in inking and wielding cards but is self-processed mediocre at reading cards. She still values the ability in other people though, and doesn't just discount reading's importance just because it's not in her skillset. Each focus is equally interesting and everything just makes sense! I just really love the magic system lol, and wish I could live in that world. Maybe as a noble and without all that death though!

There's a definite cliffhanger in this one, leading into what is going to be an amazing book two.

If you loved the card-based magic in Rachel Gillig's The Shepherd King Duology, you definitely need to read the Arcana Academy series!

Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley, but this is my voluntary and honest review.

thank you netgalley and hodderscape for a review copy!
I was hooked from the first page of this book and could not put it down!! i think the magic system in this book is definitely a reason to pick it up, it is based of tarot and i found it really well explained because it seems like so much to remember in the beginning but the fights are described really well. The tension and slow burn + forced proximity was immaculate and accompanied the plot so well! Speaking of the plot, there were so many twists and turns some I predicted but others (especially the ending) were so unexpected!! THE ENDING!!!! it was such a shock and now i am DESPERATE for sequel!! Also the setting of a the academy is perfect and i love books set in any sort of school and it adds to the amazing story. The writing was amazing and you know I love Elise Kova and this may be one of my favourite books by her! I could yap about this book for days but i 100% recommend EVERYONE to preorder it...

I've always loved Elise Kova's books. I was very intrigued to read her first published book.
This one like all of Kova's book I flew through. Such a page turner. I will continue to read anything she writes!

Once I wrapped my head around this complex world I was hooked. I loved this! It’s got action, tension, mystery and so many twists. The ending WTF! I think I know where it’s going- but I trust nothing at the this point! This was so well crafted, and had me turning page after page- even though I’d said just one more chapter an hour ago!

Arcana Academy by @elise.kova
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I absolutely get the hype about Arcana Academy! It's such a fun ride! The magic system is one of the best I have read, it uses tarot cards, which is just so cool and imaginative. We have so many badass characters and everyone has their own agenda, which I love. AND THERE IS A HEIST! I love a heist. So much, and is set in a school, and just everything is top tier.

I absolutely loved this one from Elise Kova couldn’t put it down and had to pause the ever growing tbr.

What a way to interpret tarot into a magic system I loved it.

5 star easily and cannot wait to pick up the full trilogy as and when it releases

Arcana Academy completely pulled me in and I couldn’t put it down! The tarot-based magic system was so unique and easy to follow, even as someone with zero tarot knowledge. I loved Clara as a strong yet vulnerable FMC, and the slow burn between her and Kaelis? Perfection. The fake engagement, enemies-to-lovers tension, and forced proximity hit just right.

The story has a dark academia vibe, deep character work, and emotional twists that kept me hooked. That ending? Absolutely wrecked me, in the best way. I need book two immediately.

This book was a bomb. So many good description, interesting relantionships, the worldbuilding was so captivating and the characters complex. I can't decide which one i lime the most, because each of them hâd Something special and unic about them, something that makes you like them sometime and sometime get annoyed with them. Clara's and Kaelis relantion was a like a sweet care with many strawberies, delicious and addicted. Can't wait to see what the future has for our heroine. I want a psysical copy too

😍 Clara and Kaelis are perfect 😍

The Tarot magic system is intriguing, I really liked learning all the intricacies of each card and all the innate abilities, it's really delved into deeply and I ate it all up. Even the swears are Tarot related, I loved all of it.

'Four Suits' The tension between Clara and Kaelis was utter perfection. I loved every minute of them together and I want more.

The Academy itself was fun to read about with all the twists and turns of the plot culminating in an ending that shocked me.

I have never read from this Author before, but now I will be seeking out her other books as I am enamoured by her writing and I need! the next book in this series.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you to the author and publishers for allowing me an ARC via NetGalley!!

Wow…I have no words. This book made me feel so many emotions. This is the epitome of ‘slow burn’ and I LOVE it. This book broke my heart into a million pieces, fixed it again, then broke it again. The ending is torturous but my god, it lit my soul on fire. This has so many great tropes and themes, such as dark academia (obviously), enemies to lovers, ‘touch her and die’, and forced proximity; all of my favourite things!!
The depth of the characters was so interesting and intricate, I found them really easy to relate to. There’s a diverse range of characters too which was really good to read. The plot is incredible, and I found it easy to follow, as the writing style is amazing. The characters had their own back stories, and the emotions of the FMC character are complex in the best way. I love a strong FMC who doesn’t need ‘saving’, but there was a nice vulnerability added to her which made her human.
I really loved this book and I will donate my whole entire soul for the second one!

Rating: 5/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

This was my first ever Elise Kova book (I have of course heard of her others, but this one spoke to me the most), and it really did not disappoint. People were not wrong when they said she can't write a bad book. The best way I can explain this book is Fourth Wing-esque trials blended with the magic and wonder of Caraval, and then thrown into a dark academia environment. Basically it felt like a drug to read. I could not stop turning the pages.

To begin with, the magic system in this book is so absolutely unique. I LOVE tarot cards and was so happy to read a fantasy book based on them. The writing explained the system just enough at times but not enough to overwhelm you, which I feel can sometimes happen in fantasy books. I really enjoyed learning Kova's interpretations of each of the cards and what they could be used to do in this world. I loved both the FMC and MMC. I loved the agency the FMC had and the way she fought for herself and her family/friends. I would have maybe liked to see more of the secondary characters, but that is the only critique I could find for this book.

For a book thats over 500 pages, it did not take me long to finish. And then I was on my floor. Wailing. I cannot believe I have to wait until next year to see what becomes of that cliffhanger.

5 stars, honestly.

In a world full of fantasy books that started being repetitive and there’s nothing that stands out THIS BOOK definitely stands out. It’s so refreshing to see a new magic system that’s so well executed and you’re looking forward to read more and more about it and unveil and know everything about it. Obsessed! The characters are so well written, i loved all of them even the ones that wanted me to get inside the book and kill them myself. I’m so looking forward to the next book that i don’t know how am i supposed to wait this long.

I loved the Arcana Academy! From the very first page, it had me hooked. The Tarot magic system was unique and very cool. The worldbuilding was well balanced, allowing us into this new and fascinating world without slowing the story. The MCs had depth and flaws that gave their relationship the layers we need in this genre and specifically in a series. I still don't know what will happen for them! The book ended on a bang and the promise of more secrets and agendas to be revealed. As with all the good books, we're left feeling both thrilled and devastated that we have another book to wait for!

Arcana Academy follows Clara Graysword - a prisoner who once roamed freely using illegal magic - who is now given a lucky escape to join the Arcana Academy and be betrothed to the enigmatic headmaster, Prince Kaelis, but for a hefty price. This book is part of a series which is unfinished.

The characters within this book were very intricate and it’s clear, once you’ve managed to get through to the end, that they all come with their own mysteries which were deceptively hidden throughout the book. Yet, there are still so many characters which remain a mystery to me and who, I hope, will play an important role in the upcoming series.

The romance throughout characters within the book are palpable but still laced with deceit, with worry, with deception. You do not know who to trust throughout the book and I found that to be very exhilarating as it made the more intimate scenes have an even more dangerous flare.

The magic system throughout is easily one of my favourites as it focuses around the use of tarot as weapons and the different Minor/Major aspects of the deck. You do get to learn a lot about a variety of different cards throughout and this was very interesting to me as I have an affinity towards tarot cards.

The writing style of the book was distinctly similar to other books of Kova’s I have read however this one seemed to take a slower pace than others I am used to and is a lot longer. Despite this, it didn’t feel like the book was giving me too much or too little.

Overall, this book would be great for those who like a fantastical world with a complex magic system, deceit and deception, heists and slow-burn romance.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for allowing me to read this in exchange for a review.

thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the e-arc!!

it's no secret that i have read (most of) Elise Kova's books in the past and i have loved every single one of them. when she announced this new book i added it to the tbr so fast and the hype was real!! if i had to describe this book, it would be Harry Potter on steroids (minus the problematic things behind it) with so much romance and tension and politics!!

on a grander scale, the story is simple. Clara wants to get revenge for her mother' death, and was locked up in a horrifying prison only to be broken out by the second prince Kaelis to be part of his master plan to change the world. literally. i loved the magic system of using tarot cards for spells and the way magic use is regulated in the world through Arcana Academy and the trials and tribulations for initiates and students alike. the plot thickens in ways i don't expect (the politics!!) and the way the Majors are revealed and the story behind their cards is so cool. i was on the edge of seat through the last 200 pages or so.

yes i gotta talk about Clara and Kaelis because the romance in this has me absolutely feral. i have not enjoyed a good romantasy in so long and this really scratched the itch. i loved the tension throughout and the way this actually starts as enemies. yes they were enemies, like in a 'i want to kill you but this is mutually beneficial so i won't (yet)' kind of way. yes it is a bit predictable but i love the way their chemistry grows and Kaelis actually softens around her. and she wins over both him and his cat!!

alas it is very much a doomed romance (for now) as they have (spoilers!!) ended up on opposite sides of the fight again!!

" hate you. love you. but i can't be nothing to you. "

" there is no world in which you do not consume my very being. "

i also gotta say i love the found family in this, particularly with Luren, Alor and Silas, all three of which actually do not overlap with each other. Luren and Clara understand each other in their grief, and the way they stand up for each other. Clara giving her the House Cups coin was such a powerful scene, especially after what happened with Kel. Alor is her reluctant roommate turned ally.... need i say more.

Silas had me bawling. he was on the wrong side of this fight and he knows it yet he helps her once he got to know her. his end devastated me very profoundly i will not recover from this.

that final reveal about Arina though...... WHAT. i need to know. i need book 2 omg this was so good guys!!

4.5⭐

Thank you Elise Kova, Hodderscape & NetGalley for the ARC!

Arcana Academy by Elise Kova is the first book in the Arcana Academy Trilogy.

I absolutely loved this book and couldn’t put it down. Themes of friendship, trust, found family, enemies to lovers, human fallibility, betrayal, and slow-burn romance are expertly woven into a plot full of unexpected twists.

The plot and magic system of this book were the first things that captivated me and made me request an ARC to read. I found the idea of tarot cards that give you different powers very unique; I've never read a book like it before.

The complex relationship between the strong-willed protagonist and the brooding dark prince was captivating.

If you loved the card-based magic in Rachel Gillig's The Shepherd King Duology, you definitely need to read the Arcana Academy series!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This book consumed me and reminded me how much I love a dark and magical academic setting, I couldn't put it down!

This story has:
✨️An academic setting
✨️Magic trials
✨️Enemies to lovers
✨️Forced Proximity
✨️Secrets and scheming

The magic system in this with the use of tarot cards for different skills was different from what I've read before. It was explained well and easy to understand despite not having much previous knowledge of Arcana cards.

Clara is a strong-willed FMC who will do whatever it takes to help and protect those she loves. Kaelis is the dark prince and academy headmaster. He is broody and mysterious, feared by many, and subject of numerous grim rumours. But sometimes things aren't always as they seem. The growing tension between Clara and Kaelis throughout was done perfectly.

All the characters are well written and, of course, what academic setting book would be complete without trials and a student we all collectively hate! The story is emotional and full of so many twists and turns that will have you questioning who can be trusted and who the real villains are!

The ending still has me in a chokehold and wish I could read the next book straight away, I NEED to know what happens next 🙈

I was happy to receive an arc of this for my honest review. It has easily become one of my favourite reads so far this year!

Wow this book!
Never have I read a book based on tarot magic and I absolutely adored it.
I loved the main characters and love how their enemies to lovers relationship softens with ALOT of time, patience and mutual grief and anger at the king.
This book was incredible from start to finish as all elise kova books are!

I had a feeling that this book would be a five star read from the very first chapter, and at no point while reading it did I even consider changing my mind. There wasn’t a moment of this almost 600 page book where I was bored. The twists and turns kept me guessing throughout and none of my theories ended up being correct.

The magic system that involves the inking, reading and wielding of tarot cards is one of the most intricate and interesting that I’ve read to date. The imagery of the cards, especially the inking aspect was a highlight for me and has inspired a new interest in tarot that I’d never considered before!

The tension between the main characters was incredible. I loved how slowburn the romance was and the ending left enough unresolved between Clara and Kaelis that there is still so much left to look forward to from future books in this series.

Arcana Academy has instantly made it into my favourite books of 2025 and I can’t wait to read more from Elise Kova.

"There is no world in which you do not consume my every being" - quote from book. This book has consumed MY BEING!!!

Thank you so much NetGalley, the publisher, and Elise Kova, for sharing a digital copy of this brilliant book with me for an honest review.

If you can't tell from the start of this review, I LOVED this book. To put it simply, it was incredible, and I would be so shocked if this book doesn't blow up on the internet when it is released.

Arcana Academy has such a great magic system - having to ink and use tarot cards adds a whole other level to the strategy these characters have. I also found the use of cards really refreshing compared to other fantasy books magic systems.

The characters are great; there's a good found-family trope in this story and a delicious slow-burn romance with Prince Kaelis. Let me tell you, this romance does BURN. There is so much tension and every slight interaction between Clara and him had me giggling and kicking my feet. Clara is a loveable main character, she's smart as well as reckless and I'm excited to see what she will do in the next book. That next book I need now by the way!!

My one critique is that at the beginning of the story it started fast-paced then slowed down again, so there was a slight pacing issue, meaning it took me a hot second to get into this book. But I'd say around page 200 I did not put this book down, the pace really picked up and did not stop.

4.5/5 stars from me!

Wow!
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.
This story was a bit different, I found the world interesting and fascinating, at times it reminded me a bit of Harry Potter.
I really loved the magic system this one is based on tarot cards.
The dark-academia combined with fantasy and romance was absolutely spellbinding🪄
The story takes different twists and turns each time and was mysterious, dark, magical, romantic and tactical.
I fell in love with Clara and the other characters.
I really enjoyed the story and am looking forward to book two. ❤️

**"Arcana Academy"** by Elise Kova launches the Arcana Academy Trilogy with an electrifying opener that seamlessly fuses romantasy, dark academia, and magical intrigue. Right from the first page, I was hooked.

Told in the first person, the story centers around Clara Graysword, a gifted but outlawed Arcanist imprisoned for inking illegal tarot cards—a rare and dangerous talent in the Kingdom of Oricalis. In this world, only graduates of the prestigious Arcana Academy are allowed to practice magic under the rule of the king and his noble allies. Those who fail the system or challenge its rigid structure face dire consequences: permanent exile to the mills, where survival is almost unheard of.

Clara’s fortunes shift when Prince Kaelis—the enigmatic middle royal brother and headmaster of the Academy—visits her in prison. He offers her a deal she can't refuse, setting the stage for a tense, twist-filled journey into a world of power, secrets, and forbidden magic.

I was completely absorbed by this book. It weaves together so many beloved elements: complex friendships, trust issues, betrayal, slow-burn romance, and the emotional pull of found family. The enemies-to-lovers tension between Clara and Kaelis is magnetic, made even more compelling by their clashing ideals and complicated pasts. Clara’s impulsiveness might occasionally test your patience, but her fierce resolve and resilience make her a heroine worth cheering for. Kaelis, with his brooding intellect and hidden vulnerabilities, is an equally fascinating character to unravel.

The setting is a dark academia lover’s dream. The Academy itself, with its rituals, hierarchies, and intense magical training, feels immersive and lived-in. The division of students into four houses—Wands, Coins, Cups, and Swords—adds a layer of structure and nostalgia that fans of magical school stories will appreciate. While the setup might echo familiar tropes, the tarot-based magic system gives the world a unique flavor. The intricacies of inking, reading, and wielding the major and minor arcana were brilliantly imagined and clearly defined, offering both beauty and peril in every card.

The Academy trials were among my favorite parts—tense, creative, and full of stakes that tested Clara’s every strength. They also served as excellent showcases for the broader magic system, as well as the relationships among students and mentors.

If I had any quibbles, it would be the occasional jarring use of modern profanity, which felt slightly out of sync with the otherwise immersive fantasy tone. The pacing also dipped slightly near the end, dragging in places where the plot could have moved more briskly. And while the book contains a couple of steamy scenes, I personally found them unnecessary—the emotional and narrative momentum was strong enough on its own.

That said, the cliffhanger was a jaw-dropper, and I’m desperate to see where the story goes next. This is an ambitious and thrilling start to what promises to be a standout trilogy.

Highly recommended for fans of morally gray characters, enemies-to-lovers romance, intricate magical systems, and dark academia aesthetics. Just be aware this one leans into mature themes and is best suited for adult or older teen readers.

**Huge thanks to NetGalley and (publisher) for the advanced copy! I can’t wait for book two.**

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC!

Rating- 4.5/5

This was such a fun read! It had been a while since I dived into a more fast-paced, romance-centred novel like this, and it made this book all the more enjoyable. I really appreciated the world building and the magic system was done really nicely. The main character, Clara, wasn't my absolute favourite, but I enjoyed seeing her change throughout the story, though I definitely think that Kaelis' character growth was executed better. Overall, this was a fast and engaging read, and I look forward to reading the next book in the series!

All the STARS!! I would personally rate this 4.5 stars but it can have a little extra one for the missing one in here (if you know, you know😏)

This book took me by surprise, even though I read the blurb and thought I knew what I was getting into, I really didn’t! There were some twists at the end that I didn’t see coming and I love a book when it manages to surprise me. But the fact this is a dark academia? Count me in!!!!


We get a strong FMC Clara who has a special gift and she by no means is a pushover (again, love a FMC who can stick up for herself) so when within the first 10% she does something know one else has ever done, I can’t help but root for her. On top of that, the MMC is a broody prince who seems to hate everyone including Clara and will not stop until he gets what he wants? All it does is make me kick my feet in glee when these two are on the page together😏 we have enemies to lovers, fake engagement, a smidge of betrayal and I think we can all agree that sounds like a perfect was to start a relationship..

Aside from the romance is this book, my favourite part is the actual magic system. It’s so unique and refreshing to have a system that is all about tarot cards but uses the principles of a deck of cards, never read anything like it!! I will say, I had to reread a few pages a couple of times and the glossary became my best friend because I did find that with this being a more complex magic system, I found it a little difficult to remember what is what but that could just be me and my little brain.

Only main issue (if that is what you can call it) is I wish we got more of the romance. It was definitely more heavy on the fantasy in this but the pages I got with them together just only made me wish we had more.

This is the first Elise Kova book I’ve read and I will definitely be reading her other series.

Big thank you to Elise and her team, Hodder & Stoughton and NET Galley for sending me the eARC. It was one of my highly anticipated books this year and it did not disappoint. I will be continuing this series and I would highly recommend to anyone who loves fantasy romance.

Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for approving me to read this early, 5 stars isn't enough truly.

This was utterly incredible, it had some One Dark Window vibes with the cards, but the use of the magic system and the depth of the magic is unique. I thoroughly love how we’re dropped into the heart of the story at Halazar with our FMC, we get to see how resourceful and fierce she is. The introduction to our MMC is wild, it was giving true enemies to lovers tension the whole book and the build up was great.

This story is complex with so many ever changing dynamics in this cut throat world. The academy has a very every man for themselves mantra and your life is very much on the line. You see alliances form and enemies made all while our FMC and MMC are scheming to survive and chasing myths to succeed.

I highly recommend this for fans of enemies to lovers fantasy with secrets, betrayal, an arranged marriage, insane magic and political intrigue based in an academic setting.

Absolutely could not put this book down Elise Kova does it again! Fast paced plot with amazing fantastic magic system and great characters! Loved all the world building I did feel as though it didn’t need the romance as it was great without it but that’s just me. I can’t wait for the next book!

Thank you Netgalley

WOW!!! This book was incredible! I loved the magic system in this! it was so unique.

The romance and plot were amazing! I loved all the side characters and the twist at the end!

I already cant wait for the second! You need to read this book!

5 ⭐️ Wow! I absolutely loved this book, could not put it down.
I loved the magical school premise and the scene setting in the book was fantastic.
The dynamic between the main characters was very enjoyable but I also loved the other character and felt there was many twists and turns.
Can’t wait for the next instalment!!!

4.75 stars ೃ⁀➷ So, you're telling me this book isn't even out until July and I need book 2 now?! The last line GAGGED me, SO hard.

Arcana Academy follows Clara Graysword, who at the start of the book has been rotting at Halazar Prison for over a year for doing and dealing with magic illegally. But one day, she's asked to see the second born prince- Prince Kaelis and while things dont go well at first she's offered protection and a chance to escape prison by stepping into a marriage with him and by attending his elite school for Arcanists (magical people who can wield the tarot cards) Arcana Academy. All this doesn't come with a price though; she's tasked with finding the impossible, and if she doesn't, back to Halazar prison she goes.

What to expect~
🔮 False marriage
🃏 Headmaster/Student relationship (but the romance unrelated to that dynamic)
🔮 Magical boarding school
🃏 YEARNING.
🔮 Plot twists
🃏 Unique, new magic system

This book was a super twisty, wicked story with high as hell stakes and had me by the NECK because I could not put it down. I finished most of it in one sitting, and now I'm a mess because of how long I'll probably have to wait until book 2. Can't imagine what could top this brilliance. The magic system was so unique and so beautiful to imagine (it annoyed me that the card glossary was at the back and not the front because WDYMI have to try extra hard to remember the cards, but there was a glossary the whole time?). I was obsessed with the setting and school- it felt like a mesh of Harry Potter and Zodiac Academy, yet heaps better than both. I liked how there was a heavy side plot alongside with the school because what normally happens with me during these fantasy boarding school books is that I lose interest after they leave the school, but in this book I got the chance to grow attached to both in-school and out-of-school plots. However, there was a super heavy focus on the out-of-school plot and I would have loved to read more of the academy experience.

FMC // Clara Graysword | She reminded me of Vi from Arcane so freaking much. Icon, legend, mother, you name it. Her relationship with Priss (Kaelis' cat !!) was also hilarious. I just know this girl has all the power to smash everybody into little bits but she's so HUMBLE about it ahhh. I know she went through so much in the prison and I honestly feel for her but nevertheless she's emerged as the baddest bitch alive.

MMC // Prince Kaelis | He reminded me of JAYCE from Arcane, which is such a weird mix- Jayce and Vi, WTF. I can just TELLLLL he's lonely because there were so many little things he would do or say that just screamed 'I want someone!'. Also, I feel like Elise Kova captured his younger sibling energy so well, and his character development through Clara's eyes was so SMOOTH. He ended up being so soft for her, and I didn't even realise it was happening (and that's how you know it's good development and not cringey).

The romance // Clara & Kaelis | Oh, I loved it. At first, I won't lie I wasn't feeling it, but it turned out to be a delicious slow burn then once I realised his yearning, I was ALLLL for it. What kind of was average and meh for me though was the smut- it was predictable ICL, but still disappointing because in every romantasy/dark romance book, the MMC will suddenly change personalities in the smut and not in a way that makes sense but in a way that makes him lose all uniqueness and become like every other 'dark and brooding love interest'. I admired Kaelis for his depth but it got lost in the smut.

Side characters | Ohhhhh I love them all. My favourites are Alor, Luren aaaaaand Elorin. Elorin didn't get much however I'm still so INTRIGUED. Wait, I can't forget my darling Priss.

The ending. I can't say much without spoiling but I'll say- I saw it coming just not in THAT way and it hit me like a TRUCK. And now I have a gazillion unanswered questions- perhaps more than what I usually like. Either way, you're going to want to read this book because it gave, everything.

Thank you so much to Netgalley & the publishers for giving me an eARC to review!!

4.75 stars

I loved everything about "Arcana Academy". Both the unique magical world as well as the characters and their chemistry were truly amazing.
Right from the start, the story draws you in and the constant twists and turns keep you hooked until the end.
I cannot wait for the next installment in the series and will recommend "Arcana Academy" to anyone who loves fantasy, enemies to lovers or who simply enjoys reading a well-written book.

Absolutely amazing. I loved the unique magic system and how tarot cards are used and read. It was an exciting read where all throughout the book i couldn't figure out who was telling the truth and who wasn't. (That's how well written it was!) I thoroughly enjoyed the chemistry between the mmc and fmc but also loved the side characters ( though they all had secrets of their own!) I went through different emotions throughout the book ending with a heart break. Absolutely loved it and I'm very excited for the series!

Unbelievable book, completely breath-taking to read. It has been quite some time since I have been able to sit down and read a 580 page book in just over 3 days. This is an exceptional story that has made me unsure on how to proceed with reading other books, after that cliff-hanger...

This was a first Elise Kova book I have ever read and definitely not the last. The authors writing style is really easy to follow and the words flow so well within the book itself. The magic system is so unique and it keeps the reader guessing throughout the story. The characters Elise has written are unique, each one possessing a distinct personality and depth that captivates readers and brings her stories to life. Clara and Kaelis forever.

If I had the time and less books on my TBR, I would flipping straight to the start and reading the book again. There's definitely some things I may have missed, hidden Easter eggs that will become useful for book 2. A problem when it comes to reading ARC's, I have finished book 1, 2 months before it's release, how am i supposed to wait for book 2, there isn't even a release date yet.

Definitely recommending this book to all my friends!

This book was completely un-put-down able! Oh my gosh! I loved every single minute reading this one!

The world building was insane! It was so well thought out, as was the magic system. It was so original, and very well explained to the reader too. I understood it so quickly, and found it so intriguing at the same time! I read this book in two evenings, and to be completely honest, I didn’t want to put it down on the first evening, and had to force myself to go to sleep 🤣

Clara is such a badass and is super confident with everything that she does. We are thrown into her world from the get go, but it’s all explained so well that you’re not left feeling disoriented. I am a huge lover of a fantasy dark academia, and this one was giving 👏🏻 all of the side characters were fantastic, and the MMC, Kaelis was perfectly dark, broody and morally grey. The relationship was definitely a slow burn with lots of tension and secrets between them both, and although I would have wished for a bit more of an enemies aspect, it was still so fun to read!

The action was so well written and kept me on my toes throughout, and the cliffhanger at the end? - Totally broke me! I can’t wait for book 2 already, and this one isn’t even out yet 🤣

Read if you like:
•Dark Academia
•Forced Fake Engagement
•Tarrot Magic
•Morally Grey Characters
•Magic School with Secrets
•Slow Burn Romance
•Hidden Identity

I’m sorry, what was that? I feel like I need 3-5 working days to process this absolute masterpiece!!!

I text my book bestie at Chapter 4 saying “I’m already obsessed with this book, it better not let me down” and I can honestly say this book is INCREDIBLE. I have no words - the twists and turns, the betrayal, the heartbreak, the *yearning* my goodness the yearning between Clara and Kaelis had me on the edge of my seat.

The magic in this was exceptional, the tarot cards added an unexpected dynamic and made the storyline unique and fresh.

The academy system has the nostalgia of Harry Potter while being unique, the house systems were intriguing and unlike other academia books.

The ending?!??? What, the, hell!? How could it end like that? How can we be expected to wait to find out what happens? Who can I pay to get the next book?!

Clara Graysword is the heroine of this book, but that is just one of her names. She is a woman with a complex past, and she has magical skills with tarot. This is also a friends-to-lovers story, and at the end, you are not sure what the future holds
The story is all centred around tarot cards, magic and a ruthless royal family. There is also a Prince who does not seem straight forward and keeps a secret. And there is a secret society.
The lover in the story is a man called Prine Kaelis, and one cannot tell if he is a good guy or not. There is tension between Clare and Kaelis throughout the whole book. Will they / won't they/ should they?
I cannot wait for the next book - this is a real page turner!,

The Arcana Academy by Elise Kova brings a fresh twist to magical fantasy, using tarot’s Arcana as a source of power — a power that’s dangerous enough to get you locked up. That’s where we meet the main character, an imprisoned criminal whose crime is using the Arcana without permission. From the start, the world-building is intriguing, with magic and mystery wrapped around every page.

But the real standout here is the romance. This isn’t a whirlwind love story — it’s a slow, gradual connection where the two leads are drawn together despite an undercurrent of distrust. Their bond feels both magnetic and cautious, like they’re always on the edge of something they can’t quite escape. It’s a love story with a touch of tragedy baked in, which adds a nice layer of tension.

Of course, there’s also the cat — a perfectly pompous, wonderfully cat-like companion who “chooses” the female lead as one of her people. Even better? The male lead trusts the cat’s instincts, which is just a great character touch. She’s almost an accidental matchmaker, silently giving her stamp of approval.

Fans of The Prison Healer will probably feel right at home here, with a mix of magic, danger, and a protagonist whose past is just as complicated as her present. Kova’s world feels fresh, and the balance of magical intrigue and slow-burn romance keeps the pages turning.

The Arcana Academy is a solid pick for readers who love fantasy with a dash of fate, a hint of danger, and a love story that earns its place without rushing.

Ok - obsessed with this series. Sort of Fourth Wing but with tarot and a whole heap of dark academia / magic schooling thrown in.

It’s fun, it’s sexy. It’s gripping. It’s twisty.

A smidge overwritten in places but forgivable for great plot, characters, location and magical theory.

Predicting a TikTok sensation, and going to have to wait SO LONG for the next one.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars)

Elise Kova once again proves she's a master of magical intrigue and slow-burn romance in Arcana Academy. From the very first page, this novel wraps you in a vivid world of forbidden magic, secret identities, and tarot-based power that feels as fresh as it is immersive. Clara Graysword is a scrappy, cunning heroine with just the right mix of grit and vulnerability—her illegal magic and criminal past make her an irresistible underdog in the elite, dangerous world of the academy.

The false engagement trope is executed perfectly here, especially thanks to the brooding, enigmatic Prince Kaelis. Their chemistry crackles with every stolen glance and calculated lie, and the slow progression from distrust to something deeper is as satisfying as it is tense. The politics, the danger, the arcane secrets—all of it is layered beautifully into a high-stakes game that kept me turning pages (or rather, listening) late into the night.

My only small critique is that some of the academy and world-building elements could’ve been unpacked a bit earlier in the story, as there are moments when you're left catching up—but that minor hiccup is easily forgiven in the face of Kova’s signature romantic tension and high fantasy flair.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 stars)

Elise Kova once again proves she's a master of magical intrigue and slow-burn romance in Arcana Academy. From the very first page, this novel wraps you in a vivid world of forbidden magic, secret identities, and tarot-based power that feels as fresh as it is immersive. Clara Graysword is a scrappy, cunning heroine with just the right mix of grit and vulnerability—her illegal magic and criminal past make her an irresistible underdog in the elite, dangerous world of the academy.

The false engagement trope is executed perfectly here, especially thanks to the brooding, enigmatic Prince Kaelis. Their chemistry crackles with every stolen glance and calculated lie, and the slow progression from distrust to something deeper is as satisfying as it is tense. The politics, the danger, the arcane secrets—all of it is layered beautifully into a high-stakes game that kept me turning pages (or rather, listening) late into the night.

My only small critique is that some of the academy and world-building elements could’ve been unpacked a bit earlier in the story, as there are moments when you're left catching up—but that minor hiccup is easily forgiven in the face of Kova’s signature romantic tension and high fantasy flair.

Incredible - this is unlike any fantasy I’ve ever read before. I love the storyline, and I love the characters. Everything about it had me gripped from the get-go. I cannot wait for the next book in the series. It was full of twists and turns that I didn’t expect, and a fresh take on magic. 11/10.

I loved this so much!
It felt like we joined the story after it started, caught me off guard but it was great to get the back story as we were moving forward. The magic was just *chefs kiss* using tarot cards as the basis of the magic world and the political system was brilliant. The romance and spice was just enough for the story, gently bubbling under the main plot.
And the end...I want the next book now!

This was one of the stories that hooked me from the first page on. What a beautiful and fascinating, but also dark world the author brought to life. Elise Kova created a tale with a multi-layered web of secrets, lies and intrigues that kept me on my toes.

The descriptions of the Academy were amazing and I felt like I could walk the halls alongside the characters. Even though I know nothing about tarot cards, I found the magic system easy to understand and appealing.

The book is written from the POV of Clara, which gave me a bit of a hard time because I found her to not be very likable. She was pretty self-absorbed, so every character except for hers felt kind of unfinished (but there is great potential in a lot of characters!). Even the character of Kaelen, the MC, felt a bit like a side character to me. Most of the time, Clara’s short-sighted and reckless actions infuriated me.
Did this take away from my reading experience? Not in the slightest; on the contrary, it showed how invested I was in the story. Nonetheless, I really hope for some great character development on her part and I‘m stoked to learn more about all the promising side characters in the second book of this trilogy.

Thank you NetGalley and Hodderscape for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.

Arcana Academy is the first book in the Arcana Academy series, and what a start this turned out to be.

I won’t lie, it did take until about chapter 7 or 8 before I really started getting hooked but if you love romantasy, royal intrigue, dark academia, unique tarot magic system, slow burn enemies to lovers and great world building, then you need to read this.

We follow FMC Clara Graysword who is caught practicing forbidden tarot magic and sent to Halazar Prison.

The MMC Prince Kaelis, headmaster of Arcana Academy gives her a choice, stay rotting in jail or fake an engagement to him and also enrol in Arcana Academy where she has to take part in trials to prove her skill in inking, reading and wielding tarot cards.

Kaelis believes that Clara can help him steal a tarot card from the King and use it to re-create a powerful card called the World that Clara believes is a myth. The World card gives the wielder the power to change anything…..

I loved both of these strong willed characters and after the ending…I can’t wait for book

5 ⭐️

I absolutely ate this book up. More of exactly this please and thank you! 🙏🏻

Story: 4.5/5
Characters: 5/5
Spice 🌶️.5 (sloooow burn)
Pacing: 4/5
Magic system: 5/5

The magic system:
- I loved this unique take on a magic system using tarot cards as the main vessel for magic.
- I appreciated the limitations that having the cards as the vessel caused, ie you run out of cards you run out of magic and each card uses some of your strength and energy. It made the peril and stakes a lot higher.
- Gradually learning about the magic rather than an info dump is always my favourite way to read a book 👏🏻
- The intrigue and mystery of the Majors was really well written. I really enjoyed it and found it to pull the story along really organically.

Characters:
- I loved the FMC, she could have fallen into trope, yet she felt real and well rounded as a character. I was genuinely rooting for her and her strength of commitment to herself.
- Yes morally grey MMC done right! He was a perfect enemy and antithesis to our FMC Clara. The banter and tension between them was excellent.
- I felt like Kaelis was a truly realised character, he had the depth that some MMCs lack, we still don’t know what he’s hiding!
- Yes to the at times PAINFUL slow burn and relationship with two consenting adults of similar age 👏🏻 Can we get an Amen!
- I also really enjoyed that we didn’t have a female character that just fell at a man’s feet. Clara was also a bit morally grey, she trusts no one but herself, and she isn’t afraid of double crossing others to safeguard her own interests. Yes girl.
- Also, special mention to the sexual tension you could cut with a knife.

Story:
- Full of twists and turns, I really enjoyed the pacing.
- The school lessons did pale in comparison to the rest of the book, but luckily the author also seemed to realise this, and they were mostly passed over in favour of the more interesting story line.
- Loved the gradually drip feeding of information as the FMC discovered her past and the secrets of history. Still so much I feel like I don’t know yet!
- Lovely cliffhanger, nothing too complex but BOY do I need second book right now 😂

Amazing book, can’t wait to read the next one 🙏🏻

✨Thank you so much to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for this ARC! ✨ The review is my own opinion and all my own words, I was not obligated to leave a review unless I wanted to.

I really enjoyed this despite not usually reading fantasy.
Elise Kova creates a compelling world where tarot cards are everything and only certain people have the skill and innate ability to ink them.
At the start of the book Clara is in the depths of a gaol, and forced to create tarot cards for the prisons chief warder. Through twisting events she escapes… but when she comes into contact with Prince Kaelis, second in line to the throne she begins to understand that her escape might have been set up.
Kaelis forces her into an engagement and becoming a student at Arcana Academy where those with the aptitude are taught to properly ink the tarot.
Through twists and turns we discover more about Clara’s past, meet her friends, and unravel what could be behind Kaelis’s actions.
This is the first in a series and I will be looking out for the next instalment.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for approving this eARC in exchange for an honest review.

4.5/5 ⭐️


The first in a trilogy, this story follows Clara Graysword. A tarot wielder who has been sentenced to life imprisonment for illegally inking tarot cards - a powerful skill reserved only for those that pass through the gates of Arcana Academy. Only Arcanists who graduate from the academy are permitted to practice this skill for the noble houses, those who do not graduate meet a much different fate.

We’re very quickly introduced to the headmaster - Prince Kaelis, who pays Clara a visit whilst in jail and reluctantly, they form an alliance. Clara is soon thrust into the illustrious Arcana Academy under the guise that she is the Prince’s betrothed - and they are madly in love. Whilst there she must conceal her identity and try to help the Prince make a move against some of the most powerful forces in Oricalis Kingdom.

The tension between Clara and Prince Kaelis is absolutely palpable throughout the pages as they wrestle with their mutual dislike of each other that slowly turns to something else. This is definitely a slow-burn romance and I can’t wait to see how it plays out.

This book had everything I love - the dark academia setting was fantastic, with the author describing the details so well that I truly felt like I was there alongside the characters. The found family was heartwarming to read and I loved each side character more as we went along, I would love to get to know them better in the upcoming books.

I also loved the magic system in this book, the concept of inking the cards and all the details that went into explaining this was mesmerising, I could’ve read a book on this alone. It was incredibly well done.

5/5 stars would recommend, I want to experience reading this for the first time over and over again.

This book was soul-gripping, heart-wrenching and absolutely ✨divine✨, and you'd better believe I enjoyed every single second my head was glued in this book. Arcana Academy pulled me in from the first page and I could have happily read another 1,000 pages of it. I have always loved Elise Kova's writing, but this is something else. She has created a spellbinding fantasy world filled with drama, suspense and the kind of slow-burn that has us begging for some action between our main characters.

This story follows Clara Graysword - a kickass FMC who is intelligent yet reckless, with a backstory that is plausible enough and well-written in that she doesn't feel like just another average girl who somehow saves the world. She's been dealt a tough hand in life, forced to survive on the outskirts of Eclipse City, until she is caught practicing magic - a feat that is outlawed with the exception of Arcanists. She is sent to rot in the depths of the worst prison in existence, until one day a surprising visitor turns up - none other than Prince Kaelis, second-born prince to the throne, and Headmaster of Arcana Academy. Kaelis gives her an ultimatum. She can either rot in prison for the rest of her days, or assist him with a task of great magnitude, under the guise of attending Arcana Academy and becoming his betrothed.

The magic system is so unique - I loved the tarot and the concept of inking magical cards that could be wielded, as a one-use, each taking their toll on the user. There are extra special cards, that come at a cost to ink. The layers and intricacy to this worldbuilding was epic, and I was completely obsessed and immersed in this fantasy world of tarot-based magic. The relationship between Clara and Kaelis was irresistible, with delicious slow-burn, and a rollercoaster of trust, betrayal and even falling in love *gasp* as their relationship developed.

I personally was hooked from the first page, and I didn't mind the change of pace throughout the book. The set up of the plot and worldbuilding adds so much intensity to the end of the book, and we needed some breathing space from the danger and action in other parts. Tropes include:

- enemies to lovers with slow burn
- tarot card magic system
- magical academy with trials
- heist
- found family
- fake engagement
- political machinations
- mystery and intrigue
- New Adult (21 yo FMC) with a hint of spice

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for the eARC of this book! ♥︎

This book was PHENOMENAL! Now, let me tell you why.

The story starts off with Clara in a prison which eventually leads to her escaping joining as an iniate to Arcana Academy. However, she can’t achieve this without our main man Kaelis 🫶🏼 The swoon-worthy headmaster of AA, who is dark, big, broody and bad ass (all my favourite D’s & B’s). Oh and also Clara’s new fiancé that she’s forced into an engagement with in order to survive 🤌🏼

Without giving too much away this book will take you on a journey through the academy and the different deadly trials Clara has to go through in order to join one of the four houses: 🏆⚔️🪙🪄. As well as solving the mystery of how her mother died in a suspicious accident years ago..

The best way I can describe the vibe of this book is if gothikana and hogwarts had a love child but make it an interesting tarot magic system with a sprinkle of spice 🌶️

What I LOVED about this book:
- The characters: Clara is an FMC full of stabby rage and sass. Kaelis is our morally grey prince. Ezra who we all love to hate (very Malfoy vibes). Along with the Starcrossed family 🫶🏼
- The plot: deadly trials, found family, betrayal, fake engagement, sacrificing fate.
- The romance: VEEEERRRYY SLOOOOW BURN 🔥
- The pace: I was captured from the first couple of chapters and didn’t feel the need to take a break, at all!
- Pretty much everything ✌🏼

The only thing I didn’t love was the cliffy at the end and that’s purely because I won’t know what happens until the next book is released 💀 I NEED the next book now, please and thanks 🙏🏼

This will definitely be one of my favourite reads of 2025 ✨

Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Elise Kova for an ARC of this book. All reviews are my own 🫶🏼

“This is Arcana Academy. Your future is your tuition.”

🌙 Dark Academia (with trials!)
☀️ Found Family
🌙 Tarot Magic
☀️ Slow Burn
🌙 Fake Engagement
☀️ Morally Grey Headmaster

"We've all killed our futures with our own bare hands just to get this far. What makes you think anyone would have any qualms about ending you?"

SIX FREAKING MAGNIFICENT STARS! I am in love with this book, I’ve well and truly fallen head over heels for these characters, this story and the MAGIC! This whole book is for lack of a better word… magical. I am really lucking out this year with amazing fantasy reads and this is right up there as a new favourite.

For a first book on a trilogy, this was a perfect balance of introduction us to the world, the complex magic and the characters. At no point did I feel overwhelmed with information, just completely absorbed into the story.

“The nobility of Oricalis trade in secrets as readily as they do tarot or shining regill coins and notes.”

The world of Arcana Academy was just as interesting as its magic and characters. It is a dark and desperate world, ruled by a royal family who hold so very tightly to power and characters who will do anything to survive. The politics that we are only just beginning to unravel will definitely leave you intrigued for future books.

We have the two contrasting princes. One who rules Eclipse City and those that guard it. The other, Master of Arcana Academy and the Arcanist’s who reside there. We only just begin to witness the power struggles between the two and the consequence to their people and world.

The twists. Just when you think you have it all figured out. You think you’ve guessed all the twists and turns this book can possibly make Elsie Kova hits you with more revelations to rival all the rest. And I LOVE that. I want a book that can completely outsmart me and Arcana Academy does that and more!

“I want to frustrate him. To drive him mad in every way possible with my existence.”

It is safe to say that Clara is one determined, passionate and loyal character. She was absolute dream to read about, she was clever and cunning when she needed to be. She was loving and loyal and tried her best to not jump to conclusions. She is forced to make impossible decisions through, starting right from the beginning where she is made to choose between rotting away in an unforgiving prison or becoming engaged to the very person who she believes sent her there in the first place. Did I say this was an enemies to lovers with an agonising slow burn? It’s glorious.

“Must you always be this frustrating?”
“Yes.” I can’t stop myself.
“And you know what, Kaelis, I think you like it.”

Kaelis… oh Kaelis. I haven’t just fallen for this book, I’ve fallen for this complete gem of a character too. He is dark, he is mystery, he is so achingly alone and yearning for acceptance of he is the intriguing combination of Warrior and Scholar. And he has banter for days. How can you not love a man who says things like this:

“There is no world in which you do not consume my very being.”

This man may be the new king of Yearning and I fear he likes his partner to be a little murderous. The perfect match to Clara.

I can’t wait to see how this relationship and the YEARNING progresses in the next book.

“The line between physical and magical combat blurs. Cards evaporate, unravel into threads of light, burst into multicolored stardust, disappear into a haze. The room is upended as we go for the throat—for the kill.”

The magic… oh the magic system is incredible. It is so unique, and so INTERESTING. Fantasy is by far my favourite genre, it is where my little reader heart is happiest. So finding something so refreshingly unique is the best feeling. The Tarot Magic made the fight scenes so enthralling, you will quite literally if you are anything like me, be on the edge of your seat. Everything is just so much more intense and it was such a good way of showcasing how the magic worked. Instead of just telling us, we were shown what these cards can do.

I honestly don’t know what I am going to do with myself while I wait for the next book. I’ve been well and truly ruined. I’ll leave you with just one more quote… if you don’t want to read this book after this then nothing will convince you.

“Love me, hate me, but only look at me like my existence sets you on fire . . .”

Swoon.

Easiest 5 🌟 i’ve given.

Not even kidding. Give me a true ENEMIES ENEMIES to lovers any day. I’m talking about not liking eachother for 50-70% of the book and even when it’s starting to get warm in here and I start really kicking my feet, the burn is so slow, the metaphorical candle is lasting to new year. And it was DELECTABLE. Did I mention i’m an absolute sucker for a ‘F*** it’ moment?

I will say it helped having a prior knowledge of a tarot deck, otherwise maybe have a google about tarot cards? Or you may struggle through understanding the magic system. And what a magic system it is. Maybe i’m just hyped because it was complex but I understood it and combined with Elise’s phenomenal writing, it made this book an instant top read of 2025.

Tropes:
✨Enemies to Lovers✨
✨Forced Proximity✨
✨Fake engagement✨
✨Found Family✨
✨Dark Academia (Snape voice ‘obbbviously’)✨
✨Trials✨

Clara has survived the underworld of Eclipse City through thievery, luck and a lot of illegal magic. But then she's caught and sentenced to a life in prison for inking tarot cards, a rare power reserved only for practitioners at the elite Arcana Academy. Just when it seems like her luck has run out, the Academy's headmaster, Prince Kaelis, offers her escape...for a price.

This is book one in a new fantasy romance series, and what a way to kick it all off! I LOVED this book. The dark academia and found family vibes were strong and Clara and Kaelis' characters were wonderfully fleshed out, their flaws and their strengths both being given time to take centre stage. The slow-burn romance was beautiful and complex and kept me totally hooked.

But let's talk about the magic system, because it was super fascinating!! I haven't read a fantasy book with magic quite like this; it's derived from tarot cards. The cards are inked and read, but they can also be wielded for power, for the characters to use in defence or attack and it was so complex and well done that I was utterly in awe of it. I love tarot, and I read tarot for myself, and that general understanding was great, but I don't think you need to know much, or anything, about tarot going into this to fully enjoy and immerse yourself in the Academy. The world-building was fantastic, and layered and, although it perhaps slowed the story down a little at times, it really pulled me into the world and the characters. An incredible start to the series, and I'm already craving the next book!

If you’re into magical schools, tarot cards, slow-burn romance, you’ll love Arcana Academy.

The story kicks off with Clara Graysword, an “Arcanist” (magic card user?) who’s been locked up for using illegal magic. She gets pulled out of prison by the mysterious evil Prince Kaelis. His plan? Bring Clara to his secretive magical academy, pretend she’s his fiancée (yes, really), and get her to help him with some very shady stuff.

This book has dark academia
/Harry Potter vibes—candlelit libraries, magical duels, and houses named after the tarot suits (Wands, Cups, Swords, Pentacles). The magic system is one of the coolest parts: it’s all based on tarot, and anyone who understands tarot will love the readings. It’s giving a bit of Rachel Gillig and even Cardcaptors, but is pretty unique.

As for the romance… it’s very much enemies-to-something-more, with “I hate that I want to kiss you” energy. Personally I liked the tension. It did feel like Kaelis is a character we’ve met before (a bit Rhys? A bit Xaden? A powerful brooding noble struggling under the weight of trying to make the world a better place?)

I’m not personally a glossary reader but anyone who is might benefit from skipping to the back of the book to read the glossary - I had no idea it was there.

I did struggle sometimes to follow the dialogue - I wasn’t always sure who was speaking. And I’m pretty comfortable skipping over world-building detail but sometimes it was a bit heavy - but anyone who loves world-building will really enjoy that density.

Still, I did love this book. A fun and twisty ride through a magical world that combines familiar tropes with fresh elements. I really really want book two right now (argh!)

Thanks NetGalley, Hodderscape and Elise Kova for the ARC.

I never thought I liked fantasy, but oh my goodness this book is absolutely phenomenal.

From the first chapter, I was enthralled. I'm absolutely speechless. I've never read anything by this author before, but I'm going to check out others because if this is anything to go by, I am going to hit my ambitious annual reading goal in no time.

I don't know what to say - however I do know, this is going to be an instant best seller and I can't wait for the second in the series.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for allowing me to have an ARC, I took a chance on this and I'm grateful because this is my book of the year.

THIS BOOK IS MY NEW OBSESSION!!! This book was deliciously steamy romantasy, with super super cool magic system I could talk days about!

Thank you Hodderscape so so much for this arc! I loved this book so much that Im almost sad I had the arc, because now I need to wait so much, before the next book, and after that plot twist at the end, I'm not sure I'm able to wait that time !

This books was such perfect enemies to lovers book, and also perfect start to a romantasy series! It was relatively fast paced, with super interesting and high stakes plot. After reading one dark window last year, it was so fun to read more tarot card magic system books. And this one still had such unique vibe to it. Im already so intrigued to learn more about the world and the magic.

We had such interesting side characters (and main character!!! loved reading about her and her thoughts) and the found family vibes were perfect!! The enemies to lovers between our main character and the love interest was perfect, with all the tension, hot moments, bit of forced proximity, everything a girl can hope!!

All this left me yearning for the next book, and hoping time will go faster so I could have it already.

full 5 stars, I love it!!

Thank you NetGalley and to the publisher for the e-ARC!

This book had everything I love - a magic school, trials and an interesting magic system.

The magic system was unique and woven into the story so well, I loved the use of the tarot cards - especially in battles and trials throughout. The story progression was great and I don’t feel the story lagged at any points, I was fully immersed and invested throughout.

I loved the fmc, Clara. She’s exactly the kind of protagonist I love: strong, loyal, and endlessly determined. Kaelis was a fascinating mmc, I couldn’t decide if I loathed him or loved him, and their dynamic kept me hooked. The slow burn and tension was built up so well through the story. I wish we’d seen Kaelis’ POV at some point in the story because he was down bad for Clara but it also added so much to the will they/ won’t they so I’m just hopeful for a bonus chapter at least🤭

I cannot wait for the next book!

I AM UNWELL. Holyfknairball that was hands down my favourite read of 2025 so far.

Straight away I was hooked. How it starts with the FMC in prison and is immediately pulled out by the dark mysterious MMC who has need of her but who also might have killed her mom and put her in that very prison. The drama is thick and I was very much into it.

LOVING the tarot cards magic system. The length of time taken to “ink” as in paint a card in beautiful detail adds to the cards power and how cards can only be used once and then it’s destroyed. Each card suit also needing its own unique pigment. Power differences between Major and Minor cards. GAH I loved everything about this magic system!

I also love the deadly school setting. “Pass the tests or die” similarly to Fourth Wing and On Wings of Blood (minus the dragons and vampires) but exponentially more interesting. Arcana Academy is fascinating.

The world-building and political intrigue was immaculate! There is still so much mystery that is yet to be uncovered that book 2 can’t come soon enough!

Elise Kova has instantly become one of my auto-buy authors. Her writing was spectacular and this world she created was a masterpiece.

Thank you to NetGalley, Elise Kova, Hodder & Stoughton and Hodderscape for the gifted arc. It was magnificent.

Please please please consider me for an arc of book 2 in the future.

The downside of reading an ARC….. I need book 2 before book 1 is even released!! I loved the magic system in this fantasy, and the fact that the characters had a bit more darkness to them than the usual enemies to lovers. All in all, this was just a fantastic story that had me needing more right till the end!
Can’t wait for book 2!

Thank you to NetGalley, Hodderscape and author Elise Kova for this eARC

Wow, just WOW

I loved this book so much!
The world building, the characters, the Magic System! Perfection and an absolute joy to read!

This was my first Elise Kova book despited having quite a few of her books, that I just never got around to reading, and I am so impressed! These just shot straight to the top of my TBR.

The writing is so immersive and the world building so detailed without becoming boring or info-dumpy. The magic system is something I have never seen and think it’s such a cool idea and our characters are all so well developed, well written and loveable in their own way.
The plot was well thought out and kept moving at a nice, medium pace - I didn’t feel bored for a single page, which is saying something in an over 500 page book!
I can not wait for book two, to spend more time with these characters and uncover the mysteries and clues of this world!

Excellent world building and magic systems combined with a stella romance. Elisa has done it again with Arcana Academy, a book I couldn't down and felt fully immersed in.

It’s in the cards that you’ll love this moody, epic romantasy centred around an academy for magic tarot readers.

When I first read the synopsis for Arcana Academy I knew I was going to be hooked. In an academy for tarot wielding magic users, our main character Clara is on the hunt for answers while also caught in a fake engagement with her enemy, the broody Prince and headmaster of the school, Kaelis. We are immediately immersed into Clara’s world, Eclipse City and Halazar prison where she serves a lifetime sentence for illegally inking cards. We follow her as she is entered into the Arcana Academy, struggling with the high stakes challenges posed with her own private scheming leaving her unsure of who to trust.
I loved the world that Elise Kova created. The inventiveness of tying the magic system to tarot cards is unique but also central to the overall shaping of the story. I look forward to what the cards may have in store for us in future books. The relationship between Clara and Kealis is deliciously slow burning, with Clara not sure whether she can trust her betrothed prince and their plans together while gradually starting to fall for him. The build of tension between them had me kicking my feet with glee whenever there was any payoff. The final pages of this book arrived far too quickly and the closing scenes had me wishing I could use magic myself - to turn back time and read it again, or speed along the next book so I could continue reading. A brilliant recommendation for any romantasy fans and for those that like their books to have dark, magical academia vibes.

This was my first novel from Elise Kova and oh my, it won't be my last!!!

I adore a fantasy/romantasy with a dark academia setting and this did it in a way that was ethereal, twisty and completely tension filled. the magic system surrounding tarot cards was as unique as it was fascinating and the micro trope of 'the curriculum but it's trying to kill you,' was so fun to navigate. the love interest too!!!!!! at every given opportunity, I wanted to read this book... it was ALL I could think about! this is my EXACT taste in fantasy I had the time of my life (I'm scared to see how long I need to wait for book 2)

Arcana Academy is undoubtedly perfect for lovers of dark academia fantasy, the celestial, ENEMIES TO LOVERS (they truly hate one another) and fantasy series that you will just want to binge!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

This was my first Elise Kova book and… I get the hype now. I went in not knowing what to expect and came out completely hooked. If you like a mix of tarot magic, dark academia, enemies-to-lovers energy, and a morally grey main character—you need this book.

Clara is such a strong lead. She’s sharp, guarded, and honestly just done with everyone’s nonsense (relatable). I loved that she’s powerful but not perfect—her decisions actually feel risky, and she’s constantly having to weigh survival vs trust. Her dynamic with Kaelis (the prince/headmaster with serious brooding energy) was chef’s kiss. The fake dating trope between them had me fully invested, and the slow build of their relationship was so satisfying.

The tarot-based magic system is super original, though I did have to slow down a few times to wrap my head around all the rules. But once it clicked, I loved how detailed and different it was. There’s definitely a bit of a learning curve, but it’s worth sticking with.

There’s a lot going on—politics, secrets, found family vibes—and the tension ramps up so well. And that ending? Rude. I need the next book now.

I have only recently got into reading dark academia and fantasy to have both together was extremely enjoyable. There is excellent world building and I love how they use cards in day to day life. I pelted through this book pretty quickly.

I am a sucker for academy based books and add in romance and I'm in love. This book was a 5/5 for me. I had high hopes and it smashed them all. The ending!?! Wasn't expecting that. Must read!

Oh my goodness what a story!! 5 stars all the way through, the academy system? Giving Hogwarts vibes and aligning yourself with houses of particular traits.

The magic system, using tarot cards & being able to ink them, wield them, and read them yourself! Was utterly brilliant!

The tension between Clara & Kaelis was just *chefs kiss*.

The ending... I’m sorry what?!?!? I need book 2 now!! 🤯absolutely brilliant!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

This was my first book by Elsie Kova and I’ll definitely be reading more!

The start was a little slow, there’s plenty of world building, tones of characters but don’t let that put you off.

Based on tarot with each card having a different power, or skill, I absolutely loved the magical system in this book . It was so unique and I could just picture the wielding scenes so clearly.

I liked Clara- she’s tough, a feisty non compromising FMC, who’s hidden her true identity and powers all her life. She can’t help but be drawn to the gruff and growly Kaelis. He isn’t one of those characters who’s immediately likeable but then that’s the point and by the end I was full on here for him!

It’s a slow burn and I mean super slow, so be ready for that but when it got there - bam 💥

Smoke and daggers, trust and distrust, such a web of deceit and betrayal and wow that ending left me reeling. I can’t wait for book 2!

This book would be perfect for fans of a slow burn enemies to lovers, academy setting, deadly trials and a complex and unique magical system.

I loved this book. I read it in just over 24 hours.

I thought the tarot card magic system was amazing and unique. I loved the setting but felt there could have been stronger world building in terms of the world itself. But that does not distract from the plot and the romance and how there is a twist on the romantasy as the female character is the one that is emotionally unavailable and the man falls first... AND HARD!

I thought the tropes were well executed and the clifffhanger has me wanting more.

It was annoying that the layout of the arc has the dictionary of terms and cards at the end as I didn't realise until I had finished it even existed. Moving it to the front improving the reading experience

Arcana Academy was pure magic from start to finish. Elise Kova knows exactly how to craft a world you want to live in—and characters you absolutely fall for. The romance? So swoony. The plot? Utterly addictive. I kept telling myself "just one more chapter" and suddenly it was 2am and I had zero regrets.

It’s got all the best things: an enchanting academy setting, sizzling chemistry, secrets around every corner, and a heroine who grows stronger with every page. If you're craving fantasy with heart, heat, and just the right dose of danger—this book delivers.

Now excuse me while I impatiently wait for the next one.

“You consume my every waking moment. Devour my thoughts. You’ve poisoned my halls with your scent. Flooded my dreams to the point that I cannot tell if it is a delight or a nightmare to want to drown in you.”

Wow wow wow wow!!! Where do I start?

This book is quite a chunky one but not once did I feel bored or like the plot was slowing down. The world building was incredible and very descriptive. It was so atmospheric, I felt like I was truly there being able to touch, taste, feel everything.

This book had major vibes of the shepherd king duology which I also adored. The magic system and the use of tarot cards is so unique and interesting to me.

The chemistry and the slow burnnnnn my god this had me on the edge of my seat. There was slower romance for me than I’m used to but I found myself clinging to every small moment between Clara and Kaelis. When the romance started to kick in towards the end I found myself audibly gasping at how incredible their chemistry was - how every word that came out of Kaelis’ mouth was so smooth and beautiful. I don’t think I’ve ever highlighted so many parts of a book before! This is a true enemies to lovers for me done sooo perfectly, I need more 😩😩

I really came to like Alor, she grew a lot on me along with a few other side characters. I also love Priss (sucker for a cat in a book tbh)

My only critique is some of the speech is a bit congealed at times where it’s hard to tell who’s talking. I would’ve liked more character development from the side characters and I also want to know more about Kaelis and his backstory. These might be things we get in book 2 and 3 though!

When this book comes out you all NEED to go and pick this up immediately, you will not be disappointed!!!

Tropes:
- TRUE Enemies To Lovers
- Slow Burn
- Professor x Student
- Fake Arrangement
- Prince FMC
- Badass MMC
- Forced Proximity
- Dark Academia Setting

Some of my favourite Kaelis quotes:
⭐️”This is my future wife, the woman who will become your princess. Choose your next words carefully. I assure you that having your throat cut out is not a pleasant experience.”
⭐️”I’ve wanted to fuck you for ages. Ever since I first laid eyes on you. Ever since I saw you dancing in that damned vision with another man. The audacity that fate would imagine that anyone else would ever touch the woman I’d claimed for my own.”
⭐️”You are insufferable. You are too talented for your own good. You are so-fuck-so arrogant at times and more stubborn than I have ever imagined a person capable of being. You are angry, fiery, passionate, often impulsive, and more determined than any creature I have ever met. And what’s worse is that- for as annoying as you are- you’re so gorgeous any sane man wouldn’t be able to take his eyes off you.

I stan a unique magic system and the tarot based one in Arcana Academy is amazing! I love the intricacy and the concept. I love the sheer strategy needed in using it. It is just *chef’s kiss*!
Clara is a phenomenal main character. She is stubborn and reckless and strong. The dynamic eternally her and Kaelis is perfection. There is so much tension in every scene that includes them both. I absolutely loved reading their development.
Honestly there isn’t much that I would say is wrong about this book, except the pacing can be a bit all over the place? But even that can be forgiven in the midst of the insane drama that gripped me.
This story has everything and you do not want to miss out on it!

Hey bookwyrms 👋🏻

I finished my Arcana Academy E-ARC yesterday and had the BEST time😍 I’d heard such amazing things so I was a little worried it wouldn’t live up to the hype but I had nothing to worry about🙌🏻 I almost missed lunch because I couldn’t put it down😂

Now I love a good magic system, and I think this one tops the board for most unique so far this year! I’ve always wanted a book with a tarot-based magic system and I absolutely loved how the card meanings in real life match (with some creative license of course) with the cards in Arcana Academy🤌🏻 it was done exceptionally well🙌🏻 @elise.kova you are a genius!!✨

Kaelis and Clara - I cannot begin to describe how much I loved them and the enemies to lovers arc they go through: it felt grumpy x grumpy and their chemistry was amazing🤭😏 the tension and how they both keep denying their feelings just made it even better🙏🏻

I’m intrigued to see which Waterstones SE arrives👀 although the need to collect them all is going to be strong😂

Thank you so much @netgalley and @hodderbooks / @hodderstoughton for approving my E-ARC🤍

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I didn't know I needed to read a fantasy book with a magic system based in tarot until I started this one. the idea was very promising and it absolutely delivered!

this wasn't my first Elise Kova book, but it has definitely become my favorite. it has a very compelling plot, high stakes, flawed and complex characters with questionable morals (my favorite kind), a fascinating magic system, and a delicious enemies-to-lovers storyline - what more could you want?

I also have to mention that Kaelis-"You are somehow better and worse than I could've ever imagined-everything I needed and the last fucking thing I wanted."-Oricalis was the king of yearning 😩 every time him and Carla were together on page it was absolutely electric!!

I'll just leave you with a quote that literally made me stop reading and stare off into space for a minute:

"Look at me with those crimson eyes. Look at me with all the hate you can manage and then some to hide the fact that you love me, and me alone."

are you kidding me??

also, the ending was perfect and I can't wait to read the sequel when it come out 💛

I enjoyed this book and of course the magic premise had me wanting to keep reading. The characters were great. I liked how the story flowed and how we got to know other characters in the story. I really loved the world building as it had me gripped from the first chapter.

This book was absolutely phenomenal.

The school itself feels like a very gothic Hogwarts, and a thousand times more cutthroat and ruthless. The magic system is so intricate and deep, but it was not overwhelming to follow along with in the slightest, I didn't feel lost or confused at any point and the explanations of the cards powers/uses felt natural and not bloated or info dumpy. I LOVED the use of tarot cards for magic, it was so beautifully done and the cards were all so perfectly represented.

Clara is an amazing FMC who is so strong willed, determined and confident in herself and her abilities. She has a few moments of doubt, and we get to see how she quickly learns and adapts to any situation. I enjoyed reading from her POV a lot as she didn't seem very overly biased in one way or another, she was very objective when it came to other people and their actions and understanding their motives.

Kaelis.. Oh Kaelis.. I love him so so so much! He's dark, he's mysterious, he's so willing to be the villain everyone wants him to be and he plays it so well. It's so painfully obvious he's fallen first and HARD and I loved every second of it. I do wish we got a bit more backstory on him though, there's a lot of rumours and mystery surrounding him at the moment and I don't feel like we got a ton of answers yet despite constant hints towards certain things, but I do also understand that this is the first book in the series so not all question will be answered yet!

The slow burn romance BURNED. It was perfect and everything I hoped it would be and more. I enjoyed every second of it! This was an enemies to reluctant allies to lovers (with a dash of fake marriage sprinkled in) and it was so beautifully done. The pacing of the romance was perfect and you could really feel every ounce of yearning and desire from both parties. This is a VERY slow burn, but trust me when I say the pay off is so insanely worth it. Kaelis is *chefs kiss*.

There's a lot of side characters that I found myself getting very attached to very quickly. I loved their personalities and I feel like there's a lot of potential there for quite a few of them that I'm very excited for in future books.

Thank you so much for giving me the opportunity to read this arc in return for my honest review!

Oh my word! I actually think this is my new favourite book. I absolutely devoured it and cannot wait for the next one.
The magic system was intriguing. The plot was fab. The world building was just fantastic.

Thank you!!!

WOW

Llevaba mucho tiempo sin leer a la altura y volver con este libro ha sido todo un acierto.

Deseando saber cómo continúa esto

This was my very first book by Elise Kova… and I’m hooked.

eARC via #NetGalley ☺️

Arcana Academy checks all the boxes of the kind of romantasy I adore: a badass heroine, a rich magical world, a romance full of tension, and high stakes.

Clara Graysword is the kind of heroine we love: strong, smart, independent, and not waiting around for anyone to save her. Following her through this world of forbidden magic based on tarot cards, at the heart of a mysterious academy, was an absolute pleasure. The magic system is incredibly well-built, original, and deeply developed. As a tarot novice, I admit I was a bit lost at first with all the explanations and the number of cards… but once I got into the story, everything clicked into place.

Speaking of the plot, it’s complex and full of interwoven threads — honestly, it’s almost impossible to predict what’s coming. Every time I thought I had things figured out, a new twist would come along and blow all my theories apart. And I loved that.

And the dynamic between Clara and Kaelis? Electric tension, a prince as enigmatic as he is dangerous, and a delightfully frustrating slow-burn romance. Even at the end of the book, you’re still not 100% sure what he’s hiding...

My only tiny downside is that I felt there were a few slow moments here and there, but nothing that truly impacted my enjoyment.

I can’t wait to read the sequel because the ending of this first book leaves us with so many questions. In the meantime, I’m diving into Elise Kova’s other books, starting with Air Awakens!

I couldn't put this book down. I'm a tarot fan anyway so it was an easy sell for me, but it exceeded my expectations.
Sinister elites, rebellious artists, intrigue, a missing sister. It has a lot going on but the pacing is good so you don't find yourself confused.

Clara & Kaelis
Fake Engagement
Slow Burn
Dark Academia
Tarot Card Magic System

Omg I ate this one up! I was so invested!

I love the unique magic system and learning more about this throughout the book!

I love how brooding Price Kaelis is! I love the chemistry between these two!

I cannot wait to find out more about how their history is entwined!!!

And the ending!!!! I need book 2 please! So so good!

This book had me in a chokehold. From the very first chapter, Arcana Academy felt like stepping into a world I didn’t want to leave — one built on secrets, power, and the kind of tension you can’t stop reading through. Elise Kova gives us everything: gothic magic, elite competition, layered characters, and that delicious slow-burn dynamic where you’re not sure if they’ll kiss or kill each other.

The emotional beats hit just as hard as the plot twists. Every character feels like they’re walking a razor’s edge, and the stakes feel personal in the best way. If you love morally grey leads, obsession that simmers just beneath the surface, and a world where loyalty is as dangerous as betrayal, this one is for you. I already know I’m going to reread it — and I need the sequel yesterday.

First of all thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for an Arc of this book.

We have a fantasy/ dark academia book with magic and tarot cards with some trials and battle and a slow burn romance. Oh and lets not forget the cliffhanger ending!

4.5 stars i loved it. Very unique with excellent worldbuilding and i loved the tarot card magic system.
We follow FMC Clara who can craft tarot cards and after time in prison she ends up at Arcana Academy which is run by a prince.
As things unfold various magical things happen, theres a slow burn romance and some twists and turns i didnt see coming.
There is pursuit of power and found family, ends in a cliffhanger and i cannot wait for book 2.

Expected publication date is 22nd July 2025

First impressions 💭
Only a few chapters in and I was excited for everything that Arcana Academy promised to be! The magic system was exciting, unique and well thought out.
And I was looking forward to secrets unraveling and the mystery unfolding throughout the story!

What I Loved ❤️
- the Elite academy setting with a focus on the magic system - the academics of learning said magic and the steps the students had to go through in order to make it through the academy. The friendships and the rivals and the secret society made for a thrilling journey worth turning pages for!
- The Romance - Swoon.
It’s nothing I haven’t seen before - morally grey prince and headmaster of the academy, thought to be the villain of this story (but is he?) meets badass magically gifted female who pushes every boundary and breaks every rule (for the greater good) and of course they hate eachother (but do they?)
I eat it up EVERY SINGLE TIME.

What wasnt for me 👎🏻
- that cliffhanger 🤯, this one flipped my suspicions on their head and left me open mouthed and in disbelief that I have to wait for an announcement of book 2. THE AUDACITY!! 😂
(This is a joke - I loved it all)

Favourite Quote 📝
Don’t give in to despair until you know the coffin is full. Yes, it applies to literal life-and-death situations. But it is more than that. Don’t exhaust yourself over something that might not come to pass.

Final verdict ⭐️
It’s an exciting blend of academics, Main characters each with their own agendas, secrets and lies and an unraveling mystery, action and fight scenes, an epic heist and of course… romance, that is perfectly paced and kept me flipping pages until the early morning hours! 🙌🏻
If this book doesn’t blow up and become the next big Romantasy series of 2025 then I’ll eat my hat.

The way a full blown pterodactyl screeched out of me at that ending - I am not okay… still! Arcana Academy has me in an unapologetic chokehold

This is peak fantasy romance.
Secret tarot magic? Yep.
A broody, morally grey prince with a fake engagement that spirals into something way messier? Say no more.

Clara - Scrappy, sharp, and just trying to survive a world that keeps trying to knock her down - Complete underdog.
Kaelis - He’s all sharp stares, veiled motives, and “I’ll burn the world for you” energy.

The tension between them is unreal.
“He didn’t touch me, not really - but gods, I felt it everywhere.”

It’s that kind of slow burn that coils around your ribs and refuses to let go.
“Power like his wasn’t meant to be gentle. And yet, in that moment, it was.”

There’s so much in here that ticked every box for me—if you love One Dark Window, Crimson Moth, or The Hurricane Wars, I’m confident this one’s going to land for you too.

The world is rich, the stakes are high, and that ending? Unhinged (in the best possible way).

Big thanks to Hodder & Stoughton Audio and NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for an honest review. I’m already counting down to book two.

Dark Academia, Fantasy, Unique Magic System, Original Storyline, Romance.
This book literally has EVERYTHING.

I was in a literal frenzy as I ate up every single word in this book.

Clara was a force to be reckoned with and I admired her so much, Clara and her found family have my whole heart 💔🥹

The enemies to lovers and the achingly slow burn was chefs kiss.

The last two chapters had me screaming in frustration and horror but that cliffhanger was something else!.

Fellow bookworms please read this to find your new Fantasy obsession.

Thank you SO much to Hodderscape and NetGalley for sending me an eARC of Arcana Academy to review!

Arcana Academy follows Clara, who was imprisoned for illegally inking and using tarot cards, the main magic system in this world. A year into her imprisonment she makes a bargain with Prince Kaelis, the enigmatic headmaster of Arcana Academy, to enroll at the school and develop her abilities so that they might steal his father's deck of cards in order to create a world-changing card that has been thought to be myth. Clara accepts and is swept into Arcana Academy under a ruse of being Kaelis' bride-to-be.

This book was so good!! I devoured the last 350 pages in one day and absolutely loved it. That ending though? I'm yearning for the next book harder than the main characters yearned for each other, my gosh.

Something that is really special about this book is the magic system; we've seen tarot cards done before but the way this system was laid out to be threefold (inking, wielding and reading) was so interesting to read, and the lessons we get with Clara around the different disciplines was so fun. Reading about tarot card battles was so cool and immersive, it felt like I was watching a film in my head with all the detailed descriptions.

I really enjoyed all the characters in this as well; Clara was so engaging and relatable to read about, Kaelis had me kicking my feet at many turns, and the found family of the Starcrossed Club were so wonderful to read about. I also enjoyed Clara's classmates, with a few notable exceptions, and was really rooting for them in some of the trials that initiates had to go through. And can we talk about Priss the cat? Loved her so much.

The romance is exactly what I've been looking for; enemies at first but slowly getting closer and closer, yearning more and more, despite their conflicting thoughts and beliefs, until it finally just clicks. The tension was off the charts and I loved it. This is what I want in a romantasy, not constant bickering and insta-lust. More of this please!

I think some people may struggle with the pacing of this one; it is a little slow in the beginning as you're learning the magic system and being inducted into the academy along with Clara. However the more you get into this one, the more you're immersed and swept along for the ride, and the ending makes you want to sprint-read!

Overall I loved this one; I had a feeling from the first few chapters that it'd be a 5 star read and it didn't disappoint me! If you love magical schools, unique magic systems, trial-based books, and a slowburn romance that'll have you kicking your feet, definitely add this to your TBR! I so recommend it!

One of the best romantasy books I’ve read this year. The magic system is so unique! I loved how it works and the three aspects that the students have to learn!
The academy setting was done so well, I like how it had different house but they have to prove that they were good enough to join it.
The plot twist have the end had me so shocked! Really looking forward to the next book.

What a unique and captivating premise. I loved the magic system - the way it revolved around tarot cards. There was so much depth to the plot, from the cards to the different clans and how the magical system differed depending on each card. The romance was another favourite - I loved the enemies to lovers aspect of it. I really hope we get to see more of it in the next book - especially after that ending! 5/5 stars

Academic setting? ✔️ Deadly trials?✔️ Tarot magic? ✔️ Enemies to lovers? ✔️ Found family?✔️Fake engagement?✔️ What DOESN'T this book have? I loved this dark academic fantasy romance from the first sentence and I am DYING for the sequel already! The ending was a delicious cliffhanger.

The magic system? I adore it! I have always loved tarot since I was little, and still own some decks. Having individual cards have specific powers, and all the other interesting rules about how various cards can be used by various people is such an interesting system and I can't wait to learn even more in the next book. The school was a classic mix of the house system with tarot suits, which of course I love. I feel like cups and swords got a lot of time, I am really hoping to see more of the other suits as well.

The romance? The burn was deliciously slow and perfectly paced for the plot. This is a real enemies to lovers, not just a bunch of insta-lust and bickering. Of course there is the usual back and forth but it isn't childish or based on misunderstanding. The different stakes for both characters are high and clear and I can't wait to see how everything is resolved. There isn't a lot of spice, just a couple of scenes and it is open door.

I don't know how long I can wait for the sequel, it will be going on my TBR as soon as it is announced.

I cannot say enough good things about this book ✨ from the moment I finished the first chapter I had a very special feeling!

I was truly captivated by the world building and intricate magic system - this was unlike anything I have read before and kept me flipping pages until the very last moment 📖

Both of our main characters had morally grey elements to them and that just made them even more likeable and interesting to follow.

Clara is a head-strong, stubborn woman who we quickly learn will do whatever she can for those she loved and I was honestly guessing until the very last moment what actions she would take.

Kaelis was cunning and dark but with an air of beauty about him from the very beginning - I was kept guessing who he would become (and probably still will as this series is only just beginning).

Overall, this book was phenomenal and I highly recommend you go and click pre-order ❤️‍🔥

ARC and ALC review
Release date: 22 July

4,5 stars

"Arcana Academy" by Elise Kova is the first book in the series with the same name.

Thank you Hodder & Stoughton and Hodder & Stoughton Audio for the advance digital and audio copies of the book.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.

Before reading the book all I knew was that it is a fantasy with romance and tarot cards are part of the plot.

Clara is a young woman that was sentenced to a lifetime in prison for inking tarot cards.
This power is reserved to Arcanists, students from nobility that go to the elite Arcana Academy.
Prince Kaelis is the academy's headmaster that offers her a deal to get her out of the prison.
He gives her a new name and brings her to Arcana Academy, introducing her as his fiancé.

I think that the world and magic is very interesting.
There are many cards that offer different powers and the students can only use some of them.

Clara has a traumatic past and suffered a lot in the prison, but she is very strong and has a lot of secrets.
Her skill with inking tarot cards is very helpful and her abilities with wielding cards was important during the trials.

I did not like Kaelis in the beginning as I did not know what are his intentions.
Also, it was annoying that he kept threatening to bring Clara back to prison.
But he is a complex character, with a mysterious past and slowly I started to like him a lot.

I switched from the e-book to audiobook when I needed to multitask.
The audiobook is narrated by Anna Burnett and I liked her voice, but I felt the need to increase the narration speed in some parts.
Especially in the first part of the book, the pace is a bit slow and it was easy to get distracted while listening.

Fortunately, in the second part of the book there is enough action, as well as many twists and secrets that kept me entertained.
Lately I prefer to imerse read when possible, to get the best experience of the story.

The romance part is a very slow burn with a bit of spice in the last part of the book.
Clara and Kaelis have chemistry and tension, but they are denying their feelings.

The other characters are also written well and many of them hide secrets.

The ending was intense and it surprised me.
I will definitely continue the series!

My first read of June was Elise Kova: Arcana Academy. This is an arc copy from NetGalley. Thank you for the opportunity to read this ebook!

The cover is beautiful, and the story was so captivating that I ordered the book in hardcover. I have heard the author's name many times before, so I started this story with confidence! I was not disappointed, I can definitely say that the first part of the Arcana Academy trilogy was the best read I have read this year so far! And with that, Elise has become one of my favorite authors!



The world building is brilliant, I haven't read anything like it before. The characters are interesting; they don't leave me alone for a minute. And then there's the Dark Academy theme!!! I have a lot of questions. I'm really looking forward to the sequel!



I recommend it to:

🠞 Those who like the Dark Academy style

🠞 Those who like it when there's pure hatred between the two main characters and yet they have to work together.

🠞 Those who love it when the morally gray character is a heartbreaking guy

🠞 magic, tarot cards

🠞 a fight for survival

🠞 fake engagement

This book gets ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me.

ARCANA ACADEMY - ELISE KOVA

What. A. Book. If you read romantasy/romantic fantasy, I guarantee that you've already heard of this one.

Arcana Academy features so many of my favourites within the genre, including dark academia, slow burn, enemies to lovers, high-stakes trials and tasks, deadly secrets and found family.

While it ticks a lot of boxes for most readers, Elise Kova has also created a brilliant tarot-based magic system, where each card can be wielded with powerful effects. But it doesn't stop there, as each card can equally backfire with disastrous results, while others require sacrifices. I found the magic within this book addictive and I was more than a little awestruck by its intricacy.

Clara is the protagonist, and she's pitted against Kaelis, the young headmaster with a dark and vicious reputation. This is true enemies to lovers, and there's a fair bit of spice too. I always enjoy books that feature complex characters, where you're constantly questioning their true intentions and motivations. If you like that too, you'll enjoy Arcana Academy.

The pacing is excellent, with ebbs and flows that create just the right amount of buildup for key scenes and moments, all leading up to a cliffhanger that'll make you question your ability to wait for the next book in the series.

Thank you to Elise Kova, the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC.

Release date: 22 July 2025

Review score: 5/5

TWs: d*ath, injury detail, torture, s*xual content, imprisonment

Thank you to Elise Kova, Hodder and Stoughton and NetGalley for this arc!

I haven’t read a fantasy that has swept me up quite like this in a long while! Arcana Academy was a cross between Throne of Glass and a sexy Harry Potter and I loved it!

The whole tarot magic system was so unique and like nothing I’ve ever read before. It did take me a little while to follow the ins and out of the magic - imagine me discovering the glossary at the end that explained it all AFTER I’d finished the book.

While I was expecting this to be a bit romance heavy, the relationship between Clara and the mysterious headmaster Kaelis was a minor storyline and I kind of like that it wasn’t the whole plot of the book. The tension was sexy and it was an incredibly slow burn that was so satisfying when they finally gave in to each other!

The element of found family was another favourite aspect of this book - there was so much to be found from Clara and the Starcrossed Club, to her peers at the academy to a few surprises along the way.

And that ending!! I need Book 2 immediately.

All in all I would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a complex but gripping fantasy romance. I have a feeling this might be one that everyone is talking about in the months to come…

This review is for Arcana Academy by Elise Kova which releases in the UK on the 22nd July! Thanks so much to Netgalley and Hodderscape for giving me an eArc copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I’ve loved the authors previous works (especially the Bridge Kingdom series) so as soon as I saw this was available to request I had to jump on it! The magic system sounded super unique and interesting so I couldn’t wait to see what they did with it.

The magic system ended up being super cool and actually one of my favourite parts of the novel. I loved the use of tarot and how making/inking the cards was also part of their power. The setting and writing was also beautiful, I’m a sucker for a magical school.

The characters were also really interesting with the brooding, dark haired headmaster who also happens to be a prince and the stubborn, strong and determined Clara who grew up on the other side of the tracks hiding from his family. He and Clara fought so hard against their feelings, it made me want more of them. The tensionnnnn!!

This book was also filled with a bunch of action which kept it nicely paced, with the trials Clara had to go through at the academy, the heist, the secrets. I was kept in my toes for a lot of the book and that ending???? I honestly can’t wait to see what happens next. Cannot recommend this enough, it’s lives up to the hype I keep seeing about it and more!

One of my favourite reads of the year!!

⚔️ Dark academia
🔮 Tarot magic
⚔️ Forced proximity
🔮 Court politics
⚔️ Fake engagement
🔮 Magical trials
⚔️ Sloooooow burn

I ate this book up. Arcana Academy is packed with delish angsty tension, some of the coolest magic I've read in a while, a smart-mouthed FMC just trying to survive and a Prince who needs her help for a dangerous mission.

Outside of the characters - all of whom I adore, especially our found family - there is such intricate world building happening here that I found myself so immersed in the story. Whether we were at the prison or exploring the dark and unassuming corners of the Academy, I always felt like I was standing there right beside Clara.

The tarot magic and the lore surrounding it was also so refreshing to read. I've read some fate based magical systems before, but the way they train and use tarot in this book felt so unique to me and I couldn't get enough - give me more trials and more battles in book two please!

And of course, there is a romance burning in the background throughout all of this. For their own reasons, Clara and Kaelis hate each other for the majority of the book and while the slow burn nearly killed me, I couldn't get enough of their feisty banter, lingering looks and the way they eventually come together.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow !! Arcana Academy was a fantastic read! 🔥 Elise Kova blends magic, tension, and romance into a fresh, addictive story. The Tarot-based magic system🃏 is clever and immersive—I loved how it shaped the world and the characters’ choices.

The dynamic between Clara and Kaelis is the highlight—an enemies-to-lovers trope done right. 🤭 Their chemistry crackles with unresolved tension, and every interaction had me hooked. Clara feels real—flawed, relatable, and compelling—while Kaelis is a mystery I couldn’t get enough of. 😌

The plot balances magic, politics, and personal stakes well, with enough twists to keep things unpredictable. If you like dark academia with a unique magical twist, this is a must-read!" And if you loved One Dark Window, I just know you will love it! 🙄

As an avid fantasy reader, it is hard for me to come by something that sweeps me off my feet and surprises me. More often than not, I have heard about all the tropes, magic systems and political intrigues of countless fantasy books - BUT ever so often, there comes a story that completely captures my mind, body and soul.

Arcana Academy was that story.

Right from the start, I was thrust into a cruel scene where our main character Clara finds herself in the most horrendous prison known in her world, which is ruled by the cruel Oricalis family and feels hostile, unfair and cold. I was instantly rooting for her, because i AM a sucker for a feral woman with lots of trauma and hidden talents. She fought dirty, was too smart for her own good and made decisions that fit her character so well. I liked her a lot and loved seeing her change and question her own beliefs throughout the course of the story.

Her enemy, Kaelis Oricalis, was a worthy counterpart to her, with just as many witty comments, smart remarks and a well thought out backstory, that made me question more than once who the REAL enemy of the story is. He is your classic "dark and brooding" MMC and you can never go wrong with that in my books.

Their dynamic was filled with tension, yearning and distrust. I could never guess where their story was going and was screaming at my Kindle screen for them to finally make up their damn mind and just kiss already.

But what was undeniably the star of this book was the magic system and the plot. Wielding tarot cards as weapons?? Never heard of anything cooler. The magic wasn't overwhelming and really well thought out. Elise did a fantastic job bringing the fight scenes to life, explaining the intricate rules of the cards and awaken a desire in me to get into tarot card reading ASAP.
This was only supported by a killer plot line with lots of secrets between our main characters, lots of things at stake and more than one reveal that made me gasp.

There is only one thing left to say: READ. THIS. DAMN. BOOK.

So grateful to have had the opportunity to read this one early—and it delivered everything I wanted it to! 🔥 From the first page, I was hooked on the magic, mystery, and swoon-worthy tension.

🪄 Tropes & Vibes:
– Magical academy
– Enemies to lovers
– Found family
– Hidden powers
– Dark academia aesthetic
– Slow-burn romance 💘
– Secret societies & ancient magic

🔮 What it’s about:
Set in a secretive school for the magically gifted, Arcana Academy follows a girl with a dangerous secret and a boy sworn to expose it. As tensions rise and magic stirs, they’ll have to decide if they're enemies—or something much more.

AND THAT ENDING?! 😭 It left me reeling—I am now DESPERATE for book 2. Someone please time-travel me to the release date. 😩🕰️

Ok, so there's definitely some Tarot Card books around, like, I loved the Shepherd King Duology book, but this.. this is a tarot card magic system!

I adored everything about this, the character growth, the academic setting, the magic system, it was like this was written specifically for all the things I love.

I loved the amount of spice in it, and I have a soft spot for Kaelis in my heart now, he;s just been dealt a bad hand (see what I did there? card reference?) I also have about a million theories on book 2, I was hoping for more answers however I'm assuming I'll get them in book two, I just have to be patient.

Thank you for this book, I loved it!

ABSOLUTELY. BRILLIANT!

So much I loved in this:
A fantastic magic system based on tarot cards.
Morally Grey MC
Fake marriage
Slow burn enemies to lovers
Dark Academia
Friendship Vibes

This book was brilliantly written to bring together an unlikely romantic match, dark academia vibes and a fantastic magical system with tarot cards and trials. I absolutely loved how the author entwined the death of Clara's mother, her missing sister and escape from prison.

So many twists and turns in this story. I spent the whole book totally invested in seeing how the relationship of Clara and Kaelis would end up. And OMG that ending!! Like why!!

I love a slow burn enemies to lovers relationship and goodness this book did it so well. And who doesn't love dark academia vibes with the added twist of dangerous trials and loyalties.

Absolutely captivating and enthralling. I have no idea how I'll wait for the next book now!

This epic fantasy novel by Elise Kova is the first in this new series full of arcane magic and tarot.

This follows Clara, a woman who can wield impressive arcane magic to control tarot cards, finds herself thrown in prison for illegally creating these cards. Luck is on her side and she finds herself engaged to the headmaster of the illustrious Arcana Academy.

Kova immerses you into this magical world from the start and I found myself engrossed whenever I opened the pages. The characters are well developed and I truly came to love and hate certain characters, which you know is a sign of a well written story. The sprinkling of romance throughout was a perfectly intertwined subplot which always left me wanting more, and I need the sequel immediately to know what happens to these characters.

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy, romance and magic as it is the perfect combination of all three.
Don’t miss out and preorder your copy today! Out 22nd July 2025.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for gifting me an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

5/5 stars – A brilliant, fresh fantasy romance full of magic, secrets, and slow-burn tension

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC! I absolutely loved this book.

From page one, Arcana Academy had me hooked. Elise Kova has created a completely original and fascinating magic system centered around magical tarot cards — with different powers “inked” into each card. The idea is fresh, smart, and gorgeously woven into the story’s world and politics.
Clara, the main character, is a sharp, street-smart magical forger about to be locked up for life... until she’s offered a deal by the mysterious Prince Kaelis, headmaster of the elite Arcana Academy. All she has to do is pretend to be his bride-to-be, infiltrate royal society, and help him steal a legendary card from the king.

What follows is:
A dangerously addicting fake engagement romance
A slow-burn enemies-to-lovers tension that sizzles
Political schemes, school rivalries, and secret missions
One of the coolest magical academies I’ve read in ages

Kaelis and Clara have incredible chemistry. He’s brooding and strategic. She’s bold, clever, and chaotic. Watching them pretend not to fall for each other while literally playing royal house was chef’s kiss.
I also appreciated the morally gray vibes — this isn’t just a school romance. It’s about power, control, survival, and what happens when two brilliant people start to truly trust each other (or try not to).

I couldn't put it down. The magic system is top-tier, the characters are complicated and compelling, and the romance? Equal parts tension and tenderness. This is such a strong series opener — I already need book two like I need air. Highly recommended for fans of romantasy, magic academies, and clever heroines who are one step away from world domination.
🌟 Fake dating.
🌟 Dangerous tarot magic.
🌟 Magical school with secrets.
Count me in. 🔮

Everything you love about a magical academy setting with fake dating and dangerous tests. Arcana Academy reimagines the magic of the tarot cards in such a unique and fascinating way. A tarot-lovers DREAM!

Welcome to a magical fantasy world...Arcana Academy.
This is filled with mystery, revenge and tense sexual energy.
For romantasy fans this is a must, I can't wait for the sequel.

A great start to the series, I really enjoyed this one. I think the most standout part is the FMC, Clara, who is everything I want out of a FMC. Smart, witty, fierce and fearless, with an unwavering confidence and resilience/strength, she takes absolutely no s***t from anyone. I could read her inner monologue for days on end! Her dynamic and back and forth with Kaelis is brilliant, their exchanges are *chef's kiss*.
That's not to take away from the fantastic world that elise Kova has created and delivered. I loved everything about the magic system and how the tarot cards inking, wielding and reading works. I wasn't able to memorise which card did what, but I just went with it and it did not take me out of the story at all!
I wish there was a bit more on the found family but without giving too much away, this is a super enjoyable read, the pace is good, the plot is plotting well and the twists are definitely twisting. the cliffhanger is MEAN and there might have been an audible gasp, I will be coming back for more, too many unanswered questions!!!
For the fans of the genre, you will not be disappointed. It's a great book! a huge thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my review copy, all opinions are my own.

I absolutely loved this book, and this is probably my favourite magic system ever in a fantasy tale. I found the idea of using tarot cards to cast spells really interesting and appreciated the little glossary at the back explaining them.

I loved Clara and Kaelis' chemistry together, and the slow burn was horrible. 10/10 agony.

My only negative (and this is purely me!) is using cvnt in spicy scenes is an instant ick as I like my romance more swoony. Otherwise, I loved everything about it. Oh, except the ending reminded me of why ARCs are a double-edged sword because wtf was that cliffhanger, and now I have to wait even longer?!

This might be the best book I have read this year, and that’s saying something! It’s a slow-burn, enemies-to-lovers set in a magic school where the magic system is based on the tarot.

The book follows Clara, who escapes a notorious prison at the start of the book, only to be captured by Kaelis, a prince and the headmaster of Acarna Academy. Kaelis has his own uses for Clara and her unique abilities, so the two form an uneasy alliance that results in Clara joining the academy and pretending to be Kaelis’ betrothed. But Clara thinks Kaelis is responsible for the death of her family, and as she tries to uncover his secrets, she realises there is a lot more going on than she imagined. There is so much going on between these two characters (and the plot in general) that it kept me on my toes, right till the explosive ending.

This might be the most unique magic system I have ever seen, but it’s one that worked flawlessly. Each card is able to perform a different kind of magic, and the magical duels throughout this book really showcased what was possible. It was a little confusing at first, but I started to understand it quickly enough that it didn’t distract from the story. The world building as well was simply sublime, again matching the tarot system. The academy itself is built on layers upon layers of history, and yet not everything is as it seems.

It you love multi-layered characters, world buildings and magic systems, if you live for the secrets, the yearn and the tension, this book is definitely for you.

…dare I say… this may be one of the best fantasies I’ve read in a very, VERY long time…

A unique magic system, a classic tortured MMC, an ENTIRELY gripping plot and you’ve got me begging for more to be honest. I cannot wait for book 2 already!

This was such an enjoyable book. It was intricate, tense, and mysterious. The magic system was so different and refreshing, I really enjoyed discovering all the new cards and their powers. I loved the dynamic that Clara had with the other characters, notable mentions of course Kaelis. There was also variety in the friendships she had and I was always debating who she could really trust... There was politics and secrecy and I just ate it all up, I can't wait for book 2!

5 stars!! Elise has absolutely outdone herself with this one! I’m not sure where to even begin with how much I loved it from the start right until that ending!!! The magic system is completely unique and it was one of the things that instantly drew me to the story and it was developed so well that even if like me you have zero knowledge of tarot you can still understand what the cards mean and are used for. The world building was superb and I’m honestly so excited to see more of the world and the academy with its seemingly endless passageways! This is one of my top recommendations for the year I need everyone to go read it now!!

A new staple of the genre, this was an action packed, romantic, energetic adventure that will leave you thinking about it for days on end once it is finished.

I LOVED this book! I took my time reading it because it is long, at over 500 pages, but I also wanted to savour it and allow myself to enjoy the detailed worldbuilding, thrilling tension, captivating romance and three dimensional characters, each with their own personalities and desires. The magic style is not I have encountered before, and I'm so glad that it felt unique! I have never read any Elise Kova before, but I am SO excited to get a physical copy of this when it is released! We follow Clara, an illegal unmarked Arcanist (magic wielder), as she attempts to escape prison and find her sister and her family while trying to get revenge against the crown who wrongfully imprisoned her. In order to survive and not be put back in Halazar, the prison, she enters into a reluctant alliance with the dark, ruthless and yet utterly captivating second-son of the King, Prince Kaelis. The Academy enters the fray when it provides cover for Clara and Kaelis to work together with Clara being a student, and Kaelis being its headmaster. I loved the romance, the spice, the magic classes, the pacing, the side characters, the tension... just everything about this book was well thought out and executed to perfection, including the devastating cliffhanger! Cannot recommend this book enough.

Thank you, Hodder & Stoughton, for this eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.

I’M OBSESSED WITH THIS BOOK AND CAN’T STOP THINKING ABOUT IT!!!

Arcana Academy by Elise Kova completely swept me off my feet. From the very beginning, I found myself totally enamoured with Kaelis 🥵—how did that happen so quickly? The idea of someone becoming a headmaster in their twenties gave me major “nepo baby” vibes, but in the most entertaining way possible 😂
The world-building was phenomenal and refreshingly unique. Kova crafted a setting that’s deeply atmospheric, with a deliciously dark academia backdrop and intriguing hidden passages. I was instantly hooked. There was an air of secrecy that kept you guessing, especially when it came to Kaelis and his plans. Also, the tarot powers were extremely cool – I’ve never read anything like that before!
The tension between the characters was incredible, especially the enemies-to-fake-engagement trope that had me absolutely living. Kaelis being so obviously obsessed with Clara (and falling first!) added the perfect amount of yearning. The slow burn romance had me screaming 😍
Beyond the romance, the friendships were written so well and added warmth to the intense mystery and drama. I genuinely didn’t want to finish the book because I didn’t want it to end… but I had to know what happened. The ending was so intense—no, no, no!

Elise Kova has me in a chokehold. I need book 2 ASAP. I can’t stop thinking about this story!

What in the “I could not stop turning the pages” was this? This book had me hooked from start to finish!

The world-building? Absolutely phenomenal—unlike anything I’ve seen before. So immersive, so addictive, and so masterfully explained. The author took the concept of tarot cards and spun it into something rich, vivid, and utterly captivating. Every detail was crafted with intention, making the story feel both magical and grounded in its own logic. It was beautiful and brilliantly original.

I fell completely in love with Clara and Kaelis—their character development was one of the highlights of the book for me.

Clara isn’t your typical whiny FMC. Her strength doesn’t come from having powers alone, but from the real-life challenges she’s faced and continues to work through. She’s incredibly relatable. The same goes for Kaelis—he’s not perfect, he has flaws, but he doesn’t use others to feel better about himself, even though he easily could. He never manipulates Clara, and he doesn’t blame others for his pain. I loved that about him!

Their enemies-to-lovers arc was so well written. The tension? Exquisite. The banter? Perfection. I only wish we had even more scenes between them, but since this is the first book in the series, I’ll forgive it and hope we get much more of them in the next installment(s).

One thing I genuinely appreciated—maybe a bit oddly—is how the author didn’t reveal all of the characters’ secrets in this first book. There’s still so much mystery, and I love knowing that more layers will be peeled back as the story goes on.

And that cliffhanger? What was that?! I'm still recovering.

Phenomenal book! I’ve already recommended it to all my colleagues at work, every one of my friends, and I’ll continue shouting about it to anyone who’s looking for a fantasy read with dark academia, trials, slow burn romance, and tarot cards—especially the tarot, which was used in such a fresh and fascinating way to build the world.

Huge thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I can’t wait for the next one!

Elisa Kova is a new author to me this year and is slowly becoming a favourite, I absolutely loved this book and the journey it takes you on so much so I finished it in two days as soon as I started I just couldn't put it down. It has everything I literally love in a fantasy book, high stakes, trials that are so vicious a slow burn romance all while taking place in a magical academy that is full of the perfect gothic vibes.

Straight from the start it completely captures your attention and slowly weaves together an intriguing storyline and such a unique magic system based on Tarot cards, learning about these different cards and what they could do became a favourite part of the book for me. Then there's the mystery surrounding the disappearance of the fmc Clara's sister which kept me turning the pages wanting to know so many answers.

The romance is very much more of a slow burn between Clara and Kaelis, I enjoyed their interactions so much as they find themselves in this situation of having to work together. It feels more of a subplot to me and I'm looking forward to seeing how everything develops more in the second book especially as it ended on such a cliffhanger I wasn't expecting.

Thank you so much to Publisher and NetGalley for the chance to read and review this book before publication, these are my honest thoughts and opinions.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 5 stars
Arcana Academy is about Clara, sentenced to prison for life for illegally inking tarot cards. She gets an opportunity to be free, for a price. She needs to help Kaelis steal a tarot card from the king.

“I doubt the world around me. I fear what I can’t control. But I do not doubt myself, and I do not feat the one thing I have power over: me.”


Arcana Academy has been one of my most anticipated released, as I’ve been a long-time fan of Elise Kova!! Having won the ARC at YALC made my day and finally diving into this book, I can only jump in joy at how much I loved it and how much it lived up to my expectations of it!!

The opening gives an immediate good idea of the world and also gives a glimpse at the amazing magic system in place. The world-building is unique, and very elaborate, so you do need some time to understand it all. But while the information given is extensive, never was I overwhelmed by the world-building or the magic system itself! I really enjoyed how the information was gradually given at the exact right moments. Also, I started making a list of all the magic of all the cards only to discover at the end, there is an itinerary explaining them all hahahaha

The plot itself was super engaging and had me hooked from the first chapter! I was invested and loved the different little subplots woven into the main plot! The pacing worked perfectly to keep me from putting the book down, once I really got into the story!

Clara is an amazing character in my eyes! I really enjoyed seeing her grow and go through the trials thrown at her. I was rooting for her from the very beginning and can’t wait to see where she’ll go! Kaelis is intriguing and had piqued my interests from the first time he appeared! I always believed there was more to him that it seemed, and boy was I right heheheh.

The romance between them was written soooooo well!! From the first time they met, the tension was palpable, with Clara deadest on hated Kaelis, for believing he was the reason she was in prison. I loved how Kaelis slowly worked to open Clara’s eyes and how she, after realising it, saw him in a different light. The high points in their relationship, I loved them because it felt so satisfying after reading all the build-up to it!!

The ending….. let’s just say I needed 5-10 business days to recover from that one! Holy shit I did not expect this book to end like this. That very last sentence…. It should be illegal T_T it was both the best and the worst way to end this book, because I need the sequel NOW!!!

Overall, I loved loved loved Arcana Academy, with its unique and intriguing world and characters I was rooting for!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with an ARC of this book!

Dark Academia Romance! Magic system around Tarot cards which is intriguing in itself throw in a determined stubborn strong FMC and MMC that will have ur mind boggled with what his motivations are. A story seeking revenge and resistance against a regime that only looks after the elite in society and engaging thrilling read, Throws you right into the action at the start then your in !!! SO engaging a whirlwind i still don't really know what is happening but cant wait to find out where this story goes. Nothing is what it seems