Spooky and mysterious!

Faith feels at home at Ellery West. She grew up in the Philippines and moved to the island school of magic for her high school years. She loves the school and the island until she ventures into the forest with Sydney but walks out alone after something takes Sydney’s life. Immediately, Faith is pushed into the group of exiled students who are on the verge of losing their magic if they make another misstep. Her new group of friends, known as the Red Stripes, band together and take care of each other. They also want to help Faith find out what took Sydney’s life and put a stop to the continued deaths. They discover a deep, dark secret that, when exposed, will change everything.

Likes/dislikes: I love how the Red Stripes care about each other and how they help each other. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery behind the story. This book has several interesting characters.
Mature content: PG mention of drugs
Language: R for 28 swears, 5 f-words.
Violence: PG for deaths.
Ethnicity: mixed.

i found the story compelling and the premise was interesting. some of the characters were less interesting than others, but nothing that detracted from the story too much. i am a fan of Elisa Bonnin and this book was a fine addition to her oeuvre

I really enjoyed the system of magic in this book as well as the incorporation of race, neurodiversity, sexuality, and class in a non-stereotypical or tokenizing way. I wish there were more books set in this universe and hope that Elisa A. Bonnin writes more. The plot slowed and was less in-depth during the last 25% of the book, but otherwise it was a fun and spooky ride.

Lovely Dark and Deep drew me in with its haunting atmosphere and richly layered characters. I really appreciated the way the story balanced tension with emotional depth, making me care about each character’s journey. Some moments felt a little slow for me, which kept it from being a full five stars, but the writing and mood were beautifully immersive. Overall, it’s a compelling read that lingers in your mind long after the last page.

Who was she kidding? Magic or not, she would never live a normal life. She would always be the girl who played with fire until the world burned down.


I started this book feeling SO excited. the first like 1/4th of the book I breezed through so fast because I was so captivated by the world, Faith, and the school.

unfortunately, I hit a wall before even getting halfway in. the story started to drag and it felt like we were moving at a snail’s pace. the creepy things were sparse and I felt like we didn’t get enough world building surrounding the school and the magical world as a whole. I get that would be ambitious to try and have everything jammed into one book, but I think the book suffers for it a bit without fleshing out the world more.

the plot opens with Faith (Fay) Castillo (teenage girl) reminiscing on her previous year of school. it was her first year attending the magical school The Ellery Academy of Magic. she left early and told her non-magical parents that she had been caught practicing dark magic off of school grounds. but the truth was something else entirely and it involved the death of her best friend.

Faith needs to go back to school for one more year in order to graduate and keep her magic, but due to the incident at the end of last year, she’s considered a “Red Stripe”. Red Stripes are kids considered to be more volatile or dangerous with their magic and they are held to a much stricter set of rules than the other students. they also live separately from the other students.

the story focuses a lot on Faith’s growth specifically into someone who can let others in and allow herself to just be Faith. watching Faith grow is probably the most rewarding part of the book, which sounds a little crazy when you compare that with defeating a mysterious forest being.

I assumed this was a stand alone story, but the ending definitely leaves it open to a sequel.

plot: ★★★★★
I was really excited to get a fresh take on a new magical school book. I wish the book would have explored that setting more, or that we would have gotten more opportunity to see what all the different kinds of magic could really do. I get that this is a stand alone book, so there’s only so much that could be shoved into a single book, but it almost makes me wish it had been a duology at least to get more of the lore established.

The ending also didn’t really satisfy me. All we know is Sydney is still trapped and she’s trying to get the school to move. so like… what was the entire book for. We have some answers for what happened to Sydney and what the motivation for the forest was, but i feel like we should have seen a clear resolution by the end of the book.

writing: ★★★☆☆
I loved the atmosphere in this story. You pictured Ellery West perfectly - at least the exterior of the school/the forest/the red stripes house. I realize i couldn’t really explain the interior of the school very well. I feel like I just pictured a default boarding school type of setting.

I enjoyed the writing style overall. I feel like it could have gone deeper in depth with the side characters and the school. I feel like we should have had a chapter dedicated to Ellery himself as well to really set up who he was and why he would decide going against a magical forest was worth it. Like, there wasn’t ANYWHERE else this school could have existed??? Why was he so set on this island that clearly did not want him there? What was the reason.cardibgif

The story also got a bit clunky off/on. It would be flowing really well for a while, then suddenly trip on something, and then it felt like we were crawling at a snail’s pace to try and figure out how to run again. It made for a bit of a jarring reading experience.

The world building for Faith’s immediate surroundings were fine, but everything else was lacking. And I feel like it would have made the story feel stronger if we understood more of the inner workings of the school and the differences in magic/magic ability.

ALSO not touching on these weird magical societies feels like a completely missed opportunity??? Like what was the point of introducing them, just to not have their existence mean anything to any of our characters by the end of the book? Just to give Sydney a reason to freak out? I feel like that could have been accomplished by just talking about going to college or being successful outside of school after graduation.

The magic just felt sooo convenient to the plot. Like there was always someone close by who was just the right person with just the right ability or knowledge to move them along. It didn’t feel like they had to work very hard to get answers, and even then, Faith just ended up talking to the forest directly to get her answers anyway so ??? It felt extra like what was the point of the last 5 chapters of trying to do research and getting in trouble for lmao

pacing: ★★☆☆☆
The pacing was a bit stop/go. It took me a long time to finish the book and I feel like it should have only taken me a few days.

romance: ★☆☆☆☆
there really wasn’t much romance in this book. a bit of longing, but no romance.

characters: ★★★☆☆
Faith is a fun main character, but she feels a lot like other immigrant characters. The themes of struggling to fit in and worrying about disappointing family, etc. It was an interesting perspective to read from, but didn’t feel very “fresh” or unique. She was definitely likeable though. I enjoyed reading from her perspective a lot. The rest of the Red Stripe crew were also fun, but very surface level as far as getting to know them.

Alex felt shoe-horned into a lot of parts, like when he came out as transgender felt like there was a weird spotlight added to the scene and it just felt kind of random, especially happening so close to the end of the book. It makes me wonder if Alex was based on someone the author knows personally, because he felt like such a personal character and like the author wanted to reader to care about them A LOT. And don’t get me wrong — I liked him just fine. But it would make more sense to me if the character was based on someone, rather than this random character having so much page time and not really feeling like you got to know them outside of them being autistic and really smart.

The two Red Stripes that come back towards the end felt random to me and like a really convenient way to make the whole showdown with the forest bit more feasible for them to accomplish. Like the author got to that part in writing the story and realized there was no way for the kids to do this on their own with the powers they had.

Rose was a very one-dimensional mean girl for most of the book. I wish we would have seen her character arc come around earlier in the story. I was really enjoying seeing Faith and Rose get to know each other and the implication that they might like each other is like ???!!!!!!

over-all: ★★★☆☆
I really had to struggle to finish reading this book. I would hit little spurts where I would read at a lightening pace, then hit a wall and it would take me DAYS to pick it back up again and get through more than 2 pages. I was definitely interested in seeing where the story went, but the story really struggled to keep me engaged.

Lovely Dark and Deep is a beautifully written young adult novel that blends dark academia, magic, and emotional depth in a way that feels both refreshing and powerful. Elisa A. Bonnin creates a vivid world tucked away on a secret island off the coast of Washington, where magic is real and danger lurks in the shadows of a mist-covered forest.

Faith is a deeply layered and unforgettable protagonist. Her character is shaped by past trauma, cultural displacement, and an overwhelming sense of guilt and fear, yet she remains determined, thoughtful, and resilient. Throughout the book, we witness her wrestle with loneliness, the pressure to conform, and the need to reclaim control over her future. She carries a heavy emotional burden, and the narrative does a beautiful job of exploring how her internal struggles influence the way she wields magic. Her emotional intensity isn’t just compelling, it drives the story forward and makes the stakes feel personal and urgent. I admired her quiet strength, her vulnerability, and her fierce desire to protect her place in a world that feels like the only home she has ever known.

The emotional depth of Faith’s journey is mirrored in the diverse and well-developed cast of supporting characters. Each of them brings their own history, voice, and growth to the story. The Red Stripes, in particular, are misfits forced together by circumstance, but the way they gradually form trust and kinship is truly touching. Their found family dynamic feels earned and heartfelt, offering comfort, conflict, and connection in equal measure. I truly found myself wishing the book was longer, just to spend more time with them.

The pacing was strong and the mystery surrounding the forest and its dark magic kept me hooked from start to finish. This story expertly balances suspense and character growth, all while exploring themes of isolation, belonging, and courage.

Thank you to the author Elisa A. Bonnin, NetGalley, and Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group for the opportunity to read this captivating ARC. Lovely Dark and Deep is a memorable and moving read, and I look forward to seeing what this talented author creates next.
I give this book 4 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️!

Lovely Dark and Deep is an atmospheric and introspective gem that offers a refreshing twist on the dark academia genre. Elisa A. Bonnin weaves a haunting, slow-burn narrative set at Ellery West, a secretive magical academy hidden on a misty island, where power is precious—and perilous.

Faith, a Filipina student navigating her place in a foreign land and an unforgiving school, is a compelling protagonist. Her quiet resilience and deep longing for belonging hit hard, especially as she’s cast out after surviving a mysterious incident in the forest that leaves another student missing. Her punishment? A dreaded Red Stripe on her uniform—branding her as dangerous and placing her under constant surveillance.

Bonnin’s writing is as misty and lyrical as the setting, exploring themes of isolation, identity, and institutional injustice. The Red Stripes, outcasts with jagged pasts and uncertain futures, form a compelling, reluctant found family. Their slow growth into something like trust gives the story emotional warmth amidst all the gloom and creeping dread.

The magic system here is subtle but fascinating—less wand-waving spectacle, more ritual and weight. And as the darkness creeps in, the story leans into psychological horror, unraveling what fear and guilt can do to a young mind already under pressure.

This is dark academia with teeth, but also with heart. Lovely Dark and Deep isn’t just about solving a mystery or surviving a semester—it’s about fighting to be seen as more than the worst thing that’s ever happened to you.

If you liked Ninth House or A Lesson in Vengeance, but want something a little more tender and a little more magical, don’t miss this one.

This is a book in one of my favorite genres, dark academia. If you're looking for a story with just the right amount of pacing, lovable characters and a character-driven storyline, look no further.

With found family and a diverse cast of characters who have beautiful character arcs, I can't help but sing this book's praises. The Filipino and queer representation also had me feeling very seen. I loved this book and all it's little magical details. Give it a read!

Thank you for the eARC, NetGalley and the publisher!

This was one of those dark academia books that i genuinely wished was a series and not a standalone novel. Faith is one of the most complex characters I've read this year I believe. I learnt so much about her - her conflicts, past, guilt, hope, fear, responsibilities, and i trust that this doesn't encompass everything that her character represented. And it's not just Faith, even the side characters were so intriguing, I would have loved for the book to be divided into parts and explore each of them (still am). The story explained the magic system really well, I wasn't left hanging thinking what was going on. Since the magic system was connected to elements, I loved how the author delved deeper into a character's emotions - since that usually controls the elements to a larger extent. Red Stripes were such a cool bunch, they formed a family amongst themselves that was an endearing thing to read. I'm pretty sure I'd be glad to pick up another book by the author anyday!

Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan for an advanced copy of this book.

Faith is a rising senior at Ellery West, a prestigious school for magic on a hidden island off the coast of Washington. She knew the forest surrounding the school is off-limits, but she'd do just about anything for her best friend Sydney, so when Sydney suggests they sneak into the forest to do dark magic, Faith reluctantly agrees. Things go terribly wrong and Faith flees, condemning Sydney to the forest and herself to the dreaded probationary status. She enters senior year a Red Stripe, in danger of losing her magic forever if she doesn't "behave." However, there is more going on at Ellery West and in the forest than anyone imagines, and its up to Faith and her newfound friends and fellow Red Stripes to solve the mystery and save the school.

I loved the Red Stripes and the theme of found family. Each character was well-developed and interesting. Even snooty Rose, a girl from Sydney's hometown, is more than just a mean girl or schoolyard bully. Faith's family emigrated to the US from the Philippines because some of their family and neighbors were afraid of Faith's innate ability to conjure and manipulate fire, so Faith has struggled for years with not fitting in, which only continues at Ellery since she is from a mundane (non-magical) family. She also must come to terms with her own sexuality, being a social pariah, and learning to trust others.

I thought Bonnin did a great job developing Ellery West and the island just enough that the reader felt immersed without info-dumping. The characters were well-fleshed out and felt like teenagers. Since Faith is a high school senior, her ability to reflect on her own actions and feelings didn't come across as too mature for her age; it felt authentic for a 17- or 18-year-old to be thinking. I liked the representation among the students as well. While Lovely Dark and Deep is listed as YA, it is mature enough in its themes to appeal to adults as well.

Elisa A. Bonnin’s Lovely Dark and Deep blends mystery, magic, and emotional depth in a boarding school fantasy that balances atmospheric worldbuilding with a strong, character-driven narrative. Set on a hidden, mist-shrouded island off the coast of Washington, the novel introduces Ellery West—a magical academy that’s supposed to be a haven. For Faith, a Filipino immigrant trying to belong, it has been just that—until everything changes after one terrifying night in the forest.

The premise is gripping: students marked with the Red Stripe are cast out from regular society within the school, exiled because they’re considered too dangerous. Faith’s journey from being one of Ellery West’s model students to a social outcast is both heartbreaking and compelling, especially as she wrestles with guilt, identity, and the fear of losing her magic permanently.

Bonnin excels in exploring themes of otherness and found family, especially through the bond between the Red Stripes, a group of students who’ve all been scarred—physically or emotionally—by the same darkness Faith encountered. Their alliance is tense, messy, and ultimately powerful as they come together to confront the threat lurking beyond the trees.

The pacing occasionally falters, particularly in the middle, where the mystery slows down to make room for interpersonal drama. Still, the narrative finds its footing again as the stakes escalate. The magic system is intriguing, and the island setting is lush and eerie—perfect for a story about isolation and survival.

Ultimately, Lovely Dark and Deep is an emotionally rich, suspenseful read that balances supernatural intrigue with timely themes of identity, trauma, and community. A satisfying blend of dark academia and fantasy with just the right amount of heart.

Pretty good! A little boring at times but overall a fun read. Really liked the characters and the atmosphere.

I'm gonna say 3.75 rounded up. The ending was a little bit of a let-down for me because I felt like it was building in a different direction but I overall enjoyed the story. It was nice to be in a magical school system without the shadow of someone ruining it. I liked the magic system and the little found family most of all. It felt like how a true YA magical school book she feel like for the actual target audience which was refreshing. Definitely one I can say I'd easily recommend to teenagers today.

Such a fun book to read kept me hooked the whole way! All the characters coexisted in a way where it slowed they cared about one another but weren’t letting the others slide is they did something wrong. I’ve been in such a long reading slump (since last summer) yet this was still an easy read. It also has great representation, 100% recommend it!

Faith, the main character, finds herself at Ellery West in the Pacific Northwest. After an incident, she becomes a Red Stripe, a group of people that have one final shot to prove that they're able to keep their magic and use it responsibly. I like how certain things in the book are clearly an allegory for immigration and queer identity, and I appreciate the LGBT rep especially in a magic world.

I love a good queer-confused friendship... set in a dark academia environment? Sign me up! This book was full of mystery and hope and friendship, three things that keep me engaged and turning pages constantly, until the very end. I loved the dark, foggy atmosphere, the Red Stripes and how tight they all are, the magic system, and of course, Faith's questioning journey paired with her magical one.

I think you’ll enjoy this if you are in the mood for a dark academia featuring questioning characters, a magical forest and the found family trope.

This book has so much going for it. I love anything with a magical school in it. But I struggled to get into it and felt like I was forcing myself to read it and that's just not what I want for my hobby activity. I might give it another try if my library ends up getting the audiobook though.

I thought this was very good and I will have to add this to the shop shelves. Thank you for the chance for us to review.

Thank you NetGalley and Feiwel & Friends for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.

For fans of HP and Percy Jackson look no further.
This is a YA dark academia found family, with a magic system. I enjoyed this one as lot. I think its important to consider who this book is written for while reading.
I will say the writing was pretty good!
The plot was pretty intriguing.
Two best friends go into a forbidden forest and only one makes it out. Did she kill her best friend?
Will she find out what happened?
I loved the Filipino heritage discussion and leaving your home country.
Towards the end the book just started to slow down for me and that's why I didn't rate a full 5!

4.5 ⭐️

Lovely Dark and Deep takes place in a magical high school on an island with 3 schools of magic and lots of representation including autism, POC, immigrant, and queer. It follows a group of outcast students, called the Red Stripes, who are close to being expelled for either breaking rules or being too "powerful." If they get expelled they lose their magic forever; otherwise they get a magical license. The book's plot revolves around investigating the island's forest, looking into the disappearance/deaths of a few students including Syndey who is Faith's (FMC) best friend and the reason she got Red Striped, and what happened to the school when it was founded by Ellery. The world reminded me of Harry Potter. For example, magical people whose parents are nonmagical are called mundanes. However, I think it had better world building for what mages can do after graduation.

There is a lot of representation and I think it was all handled well. Faith is a baby gay and an immigrant who came to America from the Philippines when she was a child. I loved that there was one romantic relationship in the book, and it was between two of Faith's friends. The non-verbal autism representation was excellent. Alex writes everything she wants to say in a notebook for others to read, her friends are all considerate about her differences, and they handled her meltdown really well.

I hope this book has a sequel. I'm not ready to leave this world, and I want to see what comes next for this found family. I would love for Cari to find her sister and explore more what it means to lose your magic forever.