This book is absolutely phenomenal. From the very first page, I was completely fascinated, and it only got better with every turn. Kova masterfully crafts an immersive world, blending intriguing characters with a beautifully complex magic system centered around tarot cards. The dynamic between Kaelis and Clara is captivating—an incredible slow burn that kept me on the edge of my seat. The tension, the complexity, and the ever-building chemistry made every moment of their relationship worth savoring.

The world-building is impeccable, with a university setting that feels alive and a magic system that’s as intricate as it is fascinating. Kova knows how to draw readers in and keep them captivated with the perfect mix of dark academia, fantasy, and slow-burn romance.

It’s a must-read for fans of fantasy, enemies-to-lovers tropes, and all things slow burn with a touch of darkness.
I would even go so far and say if you enjoyed Once Upon a Broken Heart by Stephanie Garber but craved a darker, more complex, and mature twist, this book is absolutely for you.

This is a 5-star book and one of my reading highlights of the year. I’ll definitely be recommending it to both colleagues and customers alike.

#NetGalley #ArcanaAcademy

I was hoping to love this more but I just couldn't connect enough to the characters! But this definitely feels like it's only because of my current reading mood, as I believe many readers will adore this book. The magic system was truly amazing, and the plot was thrilling. I can't wait to see where Elise takes us next!

Read if you like:
-professor x student
-arranged marriage
-unique tarot card magic system
-crazy plot twists!!
-lots of angst

Thank you Del Rey for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I think this has officially taken the number one spot of being my favourite Elise Kova book so far?! Dramatically yearning for more already because I was not able to put this down.

How do I even begin to explain how much I adored this story; Magical academy, enemies to lovers, found family, and a fake engagement in a world with a magic system built off tarot cards ticked all the boxes. Clara could quite easily rise the ranks in terms of favourite FMCs and I am really hoping we see more character development for both her and Kaelis, both as a pairing and as individuals. Some of the unique twists on the magic system and how it was approached and utilised all has me so excited to experience the rest of the trilogy.

It did take me around 10 chapters to settle into the narrative finally; the world-building as a whole was a little intense to start, and the ever-increasing character list sometimes felt a little out of hand to the point where I almost wanted there to be fewer characters with actual personalities over a plethora of random names and vague descriptions which all blended in the background.

Quite a few subplots which I enjoyed in the moment, but felt as though they were left behind too quickly, so I hope we loop back to some of those possibly in future books?

Anyway, I am obsessed and so excited for what's to come in the rest of this series! The second I finished reading I immediately pre-ordered a copy for my shelves on release; and much like EK's other series, I hope this one gets picked up for audiobooks somewhere down the line.

Thank you NetGalley & Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore for the opportunity to read this beautiful arc

What a ride! Arcana Academy solidifies Elise Kova as a master of her craft and an underrated author who deserves so much more recognition.

This first book in a new series introduces Clara, an Arcanist imprisoned for her illegal use of tarot magic. In this world, only those under the crown’s control are allowed to wield such power. But Clara and her sister, Arina, were secretly trained by their mother to hone their forbidden skills.

From the opening chapters, the stakes are high. Clara’s world is upended when Prince Kaelis, the kingdom’z second-born prince, visits her in prison and helps her escape. Soon, she finds herself at Arcana Academy, where she’s forced to serve the prince’s interests while pretending to be madly in love with him—as his fiancée.

The magic system in this book is truly one of the most unique and exciting I’ve encountered. Imagine the intrigue of One Dark Window and The Mask of Mirrors, but with even more layers! Even as someone who isn’t well-versed in tarot, I found the card readings and duels easy to follow and utterly fascinating.

And the romance? Perfection. Enemies to reluctant allies to “I hate you, but I want you anyway”?? Absolutely *chef’s kiss*. The tension between Clara and Kaelis is electric, and I ship them so hard.

As for the ending…wow. Some of the twists were on my radar, but the way Kova executed them left me reeling. With so many questions still unanswered, waiting for book two is going to be agonizing.

I am heartbroken. I didn't want this book to end! Clara is exactly the kind of bad@ss FMC with flaws and grit that I want to read about, and Kaelis is exactly the dark, cocky, tortured soul MMC I want to read about! Their character development was exquisite along with their sexual tension and banter.
Elise Kova's wonderful world of Tarot magic is so unique and dark and had me absolutely enthralled with a plot that had me on the edge of my seat guessing, gasping, crying, and ultimately had my jaw dropping.

3.5 stars

I honestly thought this was going to be a five star read for me. I absolutely love the world building and the magic system. This is what One Dark Window wishes it could be! And I overall loved the main character, Clara. She's clever and smart and resourceful.

But.

(be warned, spoilery content ahead though I will do my best to keep it vague)

We spend a lot of time with Clara's thoughts, which led to a feeling of being told things instead being shown things. We're told X is happening or has happened. We're told relationships have been built. But there was nothing in the words to show this had happened. This made me feel zero connection to anyone who wasn't Clara so when something good or bad happened to someone else, I didn't really care.

There is a romance side plot that the book would have been better if it was removed completely, or leaned more heavily into. They spend so little page time together, it's hard to be invested or even believe in their love.

Criticism aside, the plot was intriguing and I do plan on reading the next one when it comes out because I am invested in Clara. Would I recommend? Yes if you like tarot magic and a little bit of romance. Maybe if you're wanting something with more yearning and desire.

Thank you so much for an ARC of Arcana Academy!
Arcana Academy was just amazing and an incredible read. I absolutely devoured the story and struggled to put it down. The magic system was great. The setting was great. The characters are great. I have nothing negative to say except that I am sad I have to wait now for the next book. 🥺

I have never been more grateful to NetGalley as I am now for letting me read this book.

IT IS SO INCREDIBLY GOOD. The world building and magic was so unique, detailed, but well explained. I never wanted to leave it or set it down. Every minute my kindle updated my read time to be less and less caused panic.

Absolutely love the FMC, MMC, and all of the surrounding characters. The pacing was fabulous with a delicious slow burn romance. Enough was revealed while still making me so excited for the second book.

Could not recommend this book more.

This book pulled me out of a reading slump so deep I thought I'd never enjoy reading again. From the very first chapter, I was enamored with the main character, Clara Graysword, the magic system, and the beautiful prose that wove everything into a unique tapestry.

Clara is an extremely intelligent mind, exasperatingly beautiful woman, and an absolute sycophantic tarot inker. In a world where tarot inking is heavily sanctioned by the crown, Clara finds herself at odds with the very system that shapes her society. Her journey to uncover the mysteries of the world she lives in—and the history behind the magic that controls it all—is thrilling, romantic, and utterly impossible to put down. It’s reminiscent of Throne of Glass, particularly Aelin’s journey to reclaim her true name and kingdom. However, Clara is more unrefined and raw—her emotional decision-making feels so honest and relatable to human nature.

Kaelis, the void-born prince, seems to be just on the other side of the door from Clara throughout the book. A constant push and pull, like the waves of two oceans that touch but never truly mix. I would love to know his thoughts and experience the story from his perspective, because he feels like too intricate a character to be labeled without hearing from him directly.

This was such a fantastic book. I have so. many. questions. and I cannot wait for the rest of this series. It’s one I won’t soon forget. Thank you so much for the eARC of this book!

I've had this for a little while, and I have no desire to read it. I've tried reading it a few times but I just can't get pulled into the world. That's my own fault, not the authors.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. (via Netgalley)

I received an email with an invite to this and after reading the description including a fake engagement and enemies to lovers in a magical academy? Sold.

The magic system being built off of tarot cards was really cool and something I have not seen before. The dark academia setting gave Harry Potter vibes with the division into houses based off the Minor Arcana.

I felt like most characters were a little morally grey which I love. I liked Clara and Kaelis (void born prince with a cat!) and how their relationship progressed into something real.

I am very much looking forward to the next one after all that went down at the end!

This book is ridiculous. I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!!!!

I started this book in the midst of The Onyx Storm, which you’d think would be a bad idea, and it was… for Onyx Storm. I am going to be waiting on bated breath for the next book in this series.

I don’t want to get into theories with this review, but suffice to say, there’s more than meets the eye. I love the way tarot is used throughout. I know very little about it, but I feel like I learned some things, too!

Kaelis is 🔥🔥🔥 and Clara is such a strong, yet stubborn FMC. She’s a product of her upbringing though. I love them. They’re such great characters and the slow burn is scorching.

I had no idea that I’d be so completely and utterly swept away by this stunning book. Elise Kova is an absolute Queen! 👑 Captivating from the very start—and while I do love an academy setting, the added tarot dynamic is 100% next level. Whether you’re a tarot lover or not, this pulls you into the Clara’s world that she knows, doesn’t know and that which she fights for. So clever and unique this book’s exceptionally brilliant in every way. ✨✨✨ Plus, publishing date is on the Cancer/Leo cusp! So good! 🤌♥️🌙 Going to drink tea and pull cards right now 🍄🔮🕯️

3.5 ⭐️

I went into this without knowing the details or premise, after the publisher reached out to me and offered the opportunity to read an eARC. That said, there were things I really liked about it and things I didn’t.

Personally, I enjoyed the setting and premise of the story as well as the alliance/relationship between Clara and Kaelis. I also liked some of the other characters, at least the ones I could keep straight (because there were A LOT of them, not all of which were well-developed or that I connected to).

Honestly, I was conflicted when it came to the magic system. The cards were reminiscent of One Dark Window, which I loved and was such a unique and cool concept when I read it there. Here, I didn’t necessarily enjoy the connection to tarot. I hold no value or belief in tarot, as the author does, and I was not interested in keeping up with the very many different cards and their uses.

Overall, this surprised me. I did enjoy it and the ending left me interested to find out what happens next.

Thank you Penguin Random House and NetGalley for the ARC.

WOW. This book was everything I hoped it would be. A unique magic system first and foremost, tension, secrets, and so many twists! Clara doesn’t know who to trust and you’re left still not knowing z(as this does end on a cliffhanger.) If you’re reading this for the school aspect, you will not be disappointed. How the school operates, admission, the tests and different houses, I loved and was captivated by it all. The characters are extremely lovable and those who you think you’ll hate you’ll end up liking. I can’t not wait for the next book in the series!

Arcana Academy by Elise Kova is an exciting start to a new series. The story unfolds in an intricate world where magical tarot cards are used in battles, and the magic system is detailed and immersive. I was absolutely captivated by this romantasy.

Our main character, Clara Graysword, has led a life of survival through luck, thievery, and the illegal magic passed down from her mother. After being caught and sentenced to prison, she's thrust into a rather uncomfortable arrangement with Prince Kaelis, the headmaster of Arcana Academy. Clara has to pretend to be his fiancée as they plot to overthrow his father, the king, and his older brother. Over time, Clara begins to see Kaelis as more than just his ruthless reputation suggests.

The blend of magic, royal intrigue, and a dark academic setting made for a thrilling read. There's high stakes action, and had to work along with Clara to navigate through who she can trust and how to protect the family who raised her. The relationships are complex, and the character development kept me hooked. Kaelis and Clara's enemies-to-lovers storyline added a fantastic layer to the plot.

One of my favorite aspects was the magical cards used in battles. They were varied, unique, and added so much depth to the world. Clara's ability to create these cards and the special abilities of other characters brought the magic system to life. Elise Kova's writing is top-notch, and I can't wait for the next book in the series. The story ends on a cliffhanger, so I'm eagerly anticipating where Clara's journey will take us next.

Thank you NetGalley and Del Rey for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest review.

4.75⭐️
Oh my gosh. What was this book?? I am honestly at a loss for words.

First of all, what a brilliant introduction to a new universe! I am so, so excited to know more of it and see all these mysteries unfold!

What you can expect from the book:-
* Academic Setting and brilliant World Building
The academic setting of the story is absolutely enchanting. The depiction of the academy: it’s operations, ancient
history, the four houses, and the plethora of clans, secret societies, and clubs is masterfully done. Each aspect of this world endlessly fascinated me, creating an immersive experience that left me yearning for more exploration in future installments.

* A Unique and Detailed Magic System
The card magic in this book was utterly innovative and breathtaking. Its uniqueness and complexity demonstrate the sheer effort and creativity the author poured into crafting this magic system. I am in awe of her mind!! This originality was so captivating that it made the book an absolute page-turner. It is, without a doubt, one of the most standout features of the story.

* Morally Grey and Intriguing Characters
The characters in this book exude an enigmatic and mysterious aura. Their morally grey nature and secretive agendas added layers of complexity to the narrative. And the inability to fully trust any character heightened the stakes so much for me, making the reading experience both thrilling and unpredictable!

* The Found Family and
Friendships
The theme of found family was beautifully portrayed. While Clara considered the Star Crossed Club as her only family, it was her friendships with Luren, Dristin, Sorza, and even Silas and Alor, that truly stood out to me. These relationships were heartwarming and felt truly authentic, maybe because I saw them develop throughout the book. I am eager to see these bonds (and more of The Star Crossed Club’s dynamic) develop further in future books!

* A Mystery-Laden Plot
The plot is richly interwoven with mysteries, keeping me on the edge of my seat throughout! The plot’s pacing and engagement were exceptional, making it impossible for me to put the book down. The seamless blend of intrigue and suspense ensured a consistently engaging experience because there was always something to look forward to!


To be completely honest, the romance was the only aspect that felt underwhelming. While Clara and Kaelis were compelling as individual characters, their romantic relationship seemed unnecessary and forced. The lack of steady development between them made their sudden declarations of love unconvincing. There were so many gaps in their interactions that it created a sense of disconnect that undermined their dynamic.
Despite this, the mystery surrounding Kaelis remains intriguing, and I am deeply invested in his journey and his connection with Clara. I have a feeling there’s a lot more to it that will be explored!

All in all, the book's brilliance far outweighs its shortcomings. From the intricate world building to the unique magic system, morally ambiguous characters, and edge-of-the-seat mysteries, it delivered a truly unforgettable reading experience.
While the romance could have been better handled, it is not too bad.
The wait for book 2 is going to be excruciating after *that* ending and especially since even this one is not out yet T_T

But a special thank you to Del Rey and Random House Publishing for inviting me to read this arc!

Thank you to NetGalley and Elise Kova for this ebook in exchange for an honest review.

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Wow, this book was such a fun time! I truly enjoyed the unique magic system there is in this book. The world building was a bit intense, but definitely worth it in the long run. Can’t wait till book 2!!

I went into this completely blind, which honestly was amazing because then I finished (in less than 24 hours!) liking it way more than I'd thought. Of course, this means I'm now stuck waiting for the second book, but Clara and Kaelis are worth it...!

If you're like me and a bit tired after the wave of fae romantasy books, you'll find this so refreshing and original. I loved how the cards and magic intertwine, particularly reflected in the wielders, and I have to admit I did end up falling for Kaelis... No spoilers, but it's nice when the MMC actually does have morally grey practices and a mysterious background (vs. others where it's just instant devotion). Especially so then Clara as the FMC can shine in her own right.

There were a few moments with too much information, and a few subplots that got lost in the shuffle, but I realize that's the cost of setting up a new world. Can't wait to see how they get resolved (and clarified) in book two!!

Thank you to Del Rey & NetGalley for the chance to read early.

bro WHAT


Did I have to sit in silence and process this book after I finished it? Yes. Was I screaming? Also yes.

Slow slow SLOW burn, tarot card magic, magical school setting, found family, trials, a heist, secrets and lies and more secrets

This was sooo good?? I found it super engaging and action packed with a very unique magic system and honestly a pretty complicated plot. The plots between the political intrigue of the kingdom, the academy/school setting, and romance were well balanced. I loved that this wasn’t just another predicable, easy romantasy. The whole time you’re trying to connect the dots, figure out who’s pulling what strings, what we can trust or believe as the reader. I definitely think there’s going to be some crazy reveals in the next book(s).

I cannot wait for this series to continue because I just know that the romance/slow burn is gonna HIT. The scraps (and I say that lovingly) we got in this were amazing, the mutual pining but also trying to ignore their feelings and complete their own personal missions was beautiful. The spicy scenes were chefs kiss. I hope this turns out to be the most epic romance!!





**Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC