This book was everything I wanted and more! It is addictive and entrancing, with the writing being some of the best I’ve ever read. When it comes to the world building, it is so perfectly woven into the story that it never feels like info-dumping is occurring. You are just able to enjoy the story as it begins to unfold in front of you. When it comes to the characters, their nuances and interactions just elevate the story even more. I loved the puzzles and the questions and everything in between! I cannot wait to see everyone fall in love with this book and world.

One of my most anticipated reads this year after I kept seeing it everywhere 😍😍 and I was not let down! I was so happy I got the chance to read this story!

This book was so good! I loved the magical school and training a lot it’s one of my favorite things in books. I also loved how the characters grew, trusted each other and all the plot twists as well. I can’t wait for the second book.

I'm thankful for being on the tour for this; however, this wasn't for me. The synopsis was interesting and made me really interested in reading this, but it was hard to get into. It lagged for quite a bit for my liking. I know there's an audience for this, and I can see a massive amount of people enjoying this. I don't think I was the target audience for this, which is unfortunate because I wanted to like this. There were a few tropes that are not my thing, but that doesn't mean it's not for others. They just weren't for me. I just expected... more, I guess.

One of my reads for Jewish Heritage Month!

This is pure fun; a refreshing, smart twist on the secret magic school trope that actually feels new. In a world where magical academies often feel overdone, this one stands out and actually recaptured a little of the magic of my youth. But honestly, It starts out feeling like a typical YA fantasy setup. But as the story unfolds, it reveals layers of hidden depth that make it stand out. I wasn’t sure where it was going at first, but then the book really comes into its own. And the themes play out in such a thoughtful, unexpected way.

Ada has always struggled with not being good enough, so when she’s chosen for a mission, she’s eager to prove herself. Her voice has plenty of internal drama and sarcasm, but what really makes her work is how much she grows throughout the story. She’s thrown into this hidden magical school when most of the students look down upon her and has to navigate espionage, romance, self-doubt, and some ethically murky decisions.

The romantic subplot doesn’t overpower the main plot but it was a super fun aspect of the story. Bonus points for twists that I didn’t see coming and some genuinely emotional turns; especially when centered around Ada’s sense of belonging and family loyalties. I do not want to spoil anything, so I’m trying to keep things really vague here.

If I had one minor gripe, it’s that it is quite young adult. I hope the second in the duology dives a little deeper and gets a little darker. But that is a personal preference.

Secret societies, lots of twists and turns, and steeped in Jewish culture. Highly recommend if you’re looking for something fun but also thoughtful.

Thanks so much to TBR and Beyond Tours, the author, and the publisher for the complimentary copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.

I am a big fan of anything set in academia, and this was no different. What a beautiful story and world. The enemies to lovers story was super fun and I really enjoyed rooting for them. This story had everything you would want in a YA fantasy. Found family, enemies to lovers, save the world vibes.

Thanks for allowing me to read this as a Simon Teen Influencer.

Fans of world building and unique magic systems, this one is for you. We follow Ada, a girl from a impressively powerful family who just doesn't quite fit the mold. She hopes finding her way into the Genesis Institute, a school for the descendants of exiled Renaissance masters will help her, or at least that's what she claims. Nothing and no one is who they seem.

There are a lot of moving parts to this world and it took me a while to make it all click into place as I read. Elements of both the world as well as the magic comes from places that I am not familiar with (the pigeon golem comes to mind). I'm left with quite a few questions that I'm hopeful the sequel will be able to address.

This was a fun read overall and I will definitely be checking out the next book to see what happens! 4⭐

This book is a treat that absolutely hooks you from the first page and does not let go - I actually elongated my time reading it because I just did not want this story to end.

Somehow this is Andrea Max's debut which makes absolutely no sense, as this reads to me with the same level of world building and intent and care as someone like Naomi Novik. The idea of the world Max has created for Ada is intensely fascinating, and was one I could vividly see in Max's words and writing style. The idea of a Utopia is dangerous in and of itself, and this is no exception, especially once Ada truly starts to fit in and find herself at the school.

This was a story and a world that was almost animated in my head, and I'm usually not one to hope for adaptations but believe me I HOPE this gets turned into a full animated series to do it justice.

I am 100% adding Max to my perma-buy list, and I enjoyed this book so much I am picking up a physical copy ASAP. I will be recommending this to everyone I know!!

Thank you so much to Andrea Max, the Publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this title!!

What a phenomenal debut! Andrea Max delivers an electrifying mix of history, magic, and mystery. I agree with the Legendborn and Da Vinci Code vibes, but I would also add a dash of Harry Potter (but way more inclusive, progressive, and LGBTQ+ friendly). 💜

The world-building is fantastic—love the map and the Genesis Institute Guilds guide at the front. The contrast between the utopian Maker’s world and the deeply flawed Provincial world is powerful and thought-provoking. I love stories that include social commentary, and this one delivers, exploring themes like inequality, sustainability, and universal medicine.

Read this if you love:
✨ Secret Societies
✨ Renaissance-era Lore
✨ Magic Powers
✨ Found Family
✨ Romance Tropes - fake dating, love triangle, enemies to lovers
✨ Diverse and Inclusive Cast (including Jewish rep!)

🎧 Narration Note: Emily Lawrence is a standout! Her voice work brings to life Ada Castle (our fierce and funny FMC), and she beautifully captures Ada’s relatable self-doubt, determination, and wit.

Final Verdict: An unforgettable ride full of secrets, power, and purpose. Can’t wait for Book 2!

Enemies to lovers? Yup. Light academia? Absolutely. This book had so many of my favorite things—secret societies, magic, found family, and a love triangle that didn’t feel forced. Andrea Max crushed it.

The culture and magic were totally intertwined and Ada was a great main character, and her friendships felt real and earned. Also, Rafe? Total favorite from the moment he showed up—snarky, protective, and the perfect balance to Ada.

I do wish the world had been a bit more fleshed out. There were a few spots that left me feeling like I missed something. But overall, I was hooked and can’t wait for the sequel.

Omg I enjoyed this book so much! Honestly I don’t know what I was expecting but this was better than I thought it would be! This book gave us everything- light academia, fantasy with romance and mystery subplot. As far as the romance goes we have enemies to possibly lovers? As well as forbidden romance and possible love triangle lol. It’s a lot of possibles but there ended up clearly being two men who had an interest in our FMC. The mystery of this book was figuring out how you could trust as there were other ppl working behind the scenes. Ada came to the school under false pretenses but ended up falling in love with the school and the people. I love how she also unexpectedly ended up “finding” herself. It is at the school where she realized her true power and just how special she was. It’s sad that she had to leave her own home to discover her greatness bc at home she was made to believe she wasn’t great or special.

I am a lover of learning and consider myself lifetime learner, so I’m finding I’m really liking the academia genre! If you are someone who is a lover of the arts, sciences and even some history- then you will love this! The Genesis sounds like an amazing place! I want to apply to the Genesis as well! Sign me up as a student! I enjoyed the references to the renaissance era with mention of all the artists and more! There were also Ancient Greek reference as well.

It got really good and the story took off once the guild ceremony occurred. I absolutely loved seeing Ada selected and having her pick of which guild she’d join! For me, I’m team bioscience. I will say that the way it ended, I’m curious if there will be a book 2. My suspicion is that there will be, and if so, I’ll be reading!

A heartfelt thank you to @andreatothemax and @simonteen #SimonTeenInfluencer for the e-book and @simonaudio for the #gifted audiobook!

This debut novel is excellent. It seamlessly blends elements of light academia, secrets, mysterious societies, found family, and a captivating love triangle.

The author masterfully intertwines academia, romance, and politics, delivering a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The prose is beautifully crafted, making for an effortlessly enjoyable read, while the plot unfolds in a clear and compelling manner. The worldbuilding is immersive and expertly executed, drawing readers into its enchanting depths. With a brisk pace and action-packed storyline, the book keeps you on the edge of your seat.

At the heart of the story are relatable teenage characters, each on their own path to mastering their magical abilities. Ada, in particular, embodies the struggles of adolescence—starting as a self-doubting young girl but ultimately embarking on a transformative journey toward adulthood. While there is a love triangle, it was secondary to Ada’s mission.

The narrator brings this vibrant cast to life, skillfully crafting distinct voices for each character, making their experiences and emotions resonate deeply.

If you're a fan of fast-paced adventures set in magical societies within an academic backdrop, look no further—this book is available now.

Ada has spent the majority of her life being told she was unexceptional. So when she's kidnapped in Italy and rescued by the (very charming) recruiter for the elusive Genesis Institute, she finally can prove her worth to her family by infiltrating the school and collecting its secrets.

The Genesis Institute feels like a utopia to Ada. Functioning on perfect, sustainable technology, the members have cured diseases and revived age-old mythical creatures. As she learns more and more about the advancements Genesis has made, she gets angrier: Why haven't they shared their technology with the rest of the world?

Bent on changing that, Ada secretly collects information to report back to her family. But the nature of Genesis nurtures Ada's talents, enables her creativity, and starts to make her doubt her anger. Now, Ada has to choose a side: Her family and the world they claim to help, or the Genesis Institute and its flourishing society.

I could yell about this book to anyone who will listen!! The Exiles of the Genesis Institute are founded on a blend of mythology and science, including Jewish culture and mysticism! With two Jewish main characters, I'm going from page to page with a bright smile because finding Jewish Fantasy in YA is like uncovering a diamond in dirt.

Max has crafted a diverse, intricate world filled with political intrigue, whimsy, and societal questioning. I am so glad this book found its way to me, and I cannot thank Simon Teen enough for publishing this novel and, coincidentally, for seeing through the valuable representation during Jewish American/Canadian Heritage Month.

Very unique premise, immense world building and action packed! Absolutely enjoyed, but the last 10% was confusing. I can’t wait to see where the story goes.

Thank you to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing/Margaret K. McElderry Books for a chance to read and give a honest review an advanced copy of this book

A unique YA novel, The Art of Exile, will be popular with all audiences that enjoyed the Harry Potter series as well as the Twilight Saga. Ada is a young woman who belongs to a Family of secrets and special abilities. She receives an invite to a special academy where she begins to realize not only her talents but also abilities. Torn by her loyalties and her secret mission, she finds much more than she bargained for. The first in a series, I look forward to the next installment! Five stars for a gripping novel.

Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this, and Happy Release day to the author!

The Art of Exile had me intrigued from the start. This YA fantasy had a unique spin and story line that kept me engaged throughout it. I look forward to seeing where this series goes.

This book had high-stakes secret societies, morally murky missions, and a really cool spin on history. The stakes kept me hooked and I loved the Renaissance meets sci-fi vibes.

My only struggle? The writing style didn’t totally click for me—but to be fair, I read Robin Hobb right before this. So… maybe it was just me.

Would recommend if you like:
✨boarding school chaos
✨ethical dilemmas with a side of romance
✨secret knowledge and power vs privilege

This will be a very niche read for those that like to dabble in academia themed books, due to the heavy art influence. But, once you get past that you will enjoy a great mystery with a good set of characters.

The Art of Exile book review ✨

Thanks, Simon Teen, for the arc! #SimonTeenInfluencer

THE ART OF EXILE by Andrea Max is the first book I’ve read that is categorized as light academia. Does that mean I know what light academia vs. dark academia is? No. I just know I like academia books—light or dark. And this world that Max has created makes me wish I could be part of it because it was like stepping back into the old fantasies from when I was younger.

A magical school that can only be arrived at by a magical train. Students are separated into guilds and play a team sport with their guild, which the whole school gets excited about. It felt like coming home in a new, exciting way.

Let’s not forget to talk about the characters. I’m usually not a big fan of love triangles, but this one entertained me. I think it was because it was a girl falling for a teacher and also having an enemy feeling for a student (like a Dramione's enemies plot). The tension and snarky comments from all three are so good! The whole book, I was like, “Kiss, kiss, kiss! I don’t care who, but kiss now!”

I really enjoyed this one, and I need the second one immediately after that cliffhanger! Definitely pick it up!

THE ART OF EXILE is out tomorrow, 5/13.

💭 This book has many beautiful art descriptions, so do you have a classic art piece you would love to see in person? (Or have seen?) I was shocked at how tiny the Mona Lisa is!

#TheArtOfExile

Wow! As soon as I saw this cover I was immediately intrigued. This was super fast paced and so interesting from beginning to end. Reading this book felt like you were there with all the protagonist navigating all their adventures and intrigue.

Ada Castle has always been judged by her family, she is the only one without any special abilities. Or so she thought. The book opens up with us meeting Ada in a really big predicament, she has been kidnapped and taken to an undisclosed location. What we start to notice is that as her stress levels go up something in her body changes dramatically. After luckily being rescued, her life will never be the same again. Not only she finds out she has special abilities, she will have to sneak in to one of the most secretive schools ever to exist. This felt like reading The DaVinci Code, full of secrets, secret societies and hidden super powers.