This was such an interesting take on dark academia! I loved that the “magic system” was more metaphysical than actual magic. I loved the characters! I love an unlikable main character!

As a die-hard fan of dark academia and an avid follower of the author’s previous works, the intriguing plot of a hidden school in the heart of Savannah, accessible only to the chosen, teaching the art of persuasion, was irresistible. I dove into this adventure without hesitation.

The journey was long, yet I wished it wouldn't end. The story's progression, pacing, characterization, backstories, tension-building, balance of horror and paranormal elements, and a forbidden teacher-student love story captivated me entirely. It felt like I was reading an entire trilogy because there was so much happening: betrayal, lies, academic politics, secrets, and backstabbing. However, despite the multitude of storylines, everything merged perfectly at the end without leaving any plot holes. I have to admit, by the conclusion, I screamed “Run” so loudly that my house nearly shook. Thankfully, no mysterious elevator appeared, but the epic ending left me exhilarated.

This is the best dark academia novel I've read this year, and I couldn’t recommend it more. I hope the author writes a sequel because some details about the main characters' pasts could further illuminate why they are the way they are and what traumas drove them to their powerful states, beyond just being born that way.

Here’s a quick summary of the plot:

Lennon Carter, recently withdrawn from school and hospitalized after enduring psychological trauma, finally found love and got engaged at 22. But when she catches her fiancé with her best friend, she leaves, driving his car. Stopping at an empty mall lot, contemplating ending her life, she hears a call from a mall phone booth. Answering the call, she realizes it's for her, summoning her to Drayton College to participate in an entrance exam. This magical school is hidden in a secret pocket of Savannah. Despite the incredulity of an unsolicited invitation and an eccentric phone call, she drives eight hours, rides a magical elevator to the administration, and meets the charismatic and intimidating professor Dante. In his early 30s, covered in tattoos, he exudes smart bad-boy vibes and becomes her advisor.

Drayton’s lush, moss-draped campus, her new classmates—who become her first real friends—and Dante’s protective, mysterious charm make her feel at home. However, as she discovers her new powers, she learns that something more sinister threatens Drayton's existence. She must use her powers to protect the school but risks being destroyed by them. Additionally, some at the school have secret agendas to thwart her control. Can she harness her abilities without falling victim to the school's power plays? Read more to find out!

I’m giving this book my highest dark academia rating and eagerly await more works from this author!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this amazing dark academia thriller’s digital review copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.

An Academy for Liars is probably my favorite book of Alexis Hendersons so far! This book immediately gripped me from the very first page and never let go. I could turn the pages fast enough!

Highly recommend for fans of dark academia and time travel!

This is already my top read of the year! This was an adventurous that seamlessly blends sci-fi and fantasy elements into a gripping narrative. And, Henderson’s ability to weave together different worlds is masterful. Overalls, it was a captivating and a thrilling read!