Totally DEVOURED this book! I've read a couple of Kova's series in the past and enjoyed them which is why I wanted to read this one! This one is my new favorite! I absolutely LOVED the world she created with the tarot. Tarot has always been interesting to me but now I may be a bit obsessed, I adored Clara! She was smart and incredibly resourceful! I can't wait for the next installment!!!!

Arcana Academy pulls you into a world of magic, secrets, and a forbidden connection that’s hard to put down. The writing style stands out for its immersive, evocative quality, making the magical elements come to life without coming across as overwhelming. Clara is a fantastic protagonist. She is smart, resourceful, and full of flaws that make her journey feel authentic. The romance is slow-burn, filled with tension, and the plot twists feel carefully constructed, never cheap or rushed. The author builds a world rich with intrigue, and the ending leaves you hungry for more. It’s a perfect balance of suspense, magic, and character development, and it’s clear this is just the beginning of an exciting series.

This is a really good romantasy, i loved the uniqueness of the world building and lore. The fmc is wielding tarot card magic and she’s a prisoner that finds herself in engaged to the headmaster of the tarrot card magic academy. The magic system and world was built well, i understood what was going on and why. I like the idea of going to a school where you practice and learn how to get better with using magic tarots. The romance is an enemies to lovers and he’s also the second prince. There is so much tension and their relationship is a will they wont they one. They do get together but there are secrets, plots, and political drama between them. I liked the drama between families, hidden identities and also found family aspect. Overall an interesting fantasy, it’s long but I couldn’t put it down! Thank you Del Rey for the arc!

Read for:
- Morally grey characters
- Secret academy
- Slow burn
- Forced fake engagement
- Magic tarot world
- Secrets and hidden identity
- Dark Academia