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

Arcana Academy is Elise Kova's foray into dark academia, which combines a fascinating and creative version of tarot magic with an exquisitely slow burn enemies-to-lovers romance. Every part of this book was set up for me to love it (and I did) - from the first moment I loved our main character Clara, and the way she was willing to do anything for her family and friends. I really appreciated how she didn't keep her skills and knowledge to herself just to protect her in every way possible; she was willing to share knowledge and also smart enough to bargain her skills for other things she needed. I love when an author manages to actually show a smart main character, instead of just telling us that the character is smart with no proof. Elise Kova nailed that perfect balance of having a smart and powerful main character who also faces challenges that test her.
I loved the setting of Arcana Academy, and all of the world-building surrounded it. One piece of world-building surrounding the school that I really liked was the Chalice, and how pretty much everyone in the world was set up to believe that you had to rely on the academy and the Chalice to have power when that really wasn't the case but was so well hidden by the nobles.
By far my favourite part of this book, though, was the magic system. The fact that we have learned so much of the way the magic works and yet we still have so much that we don't know speaks to the depth of planning and careful consideration that have been done. Needing to see where things go from here with the magic, the romantic relationship, and Clara's friends and family has me eagerly awaiting the next installment in this 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! This book kinda reads like a YA/NA book but it does have a couple of steamy scenes.

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

Where to start with this book? The world building was beautiful, the magic system was really well developed and kept me wanting to learn more. The characters were unique, and I found myself wanting to know more about them. So many secrets and so much more to learn about this world. I knew there was going to be a cliffhanger but that is not where I was excepting it to go. Can't wait to see where the rest of the story is going.

I loved this book! The beginning hooked me immediately and the characters have such vivid personalities. The end was insane in the best way!

Arcana Academy, an amazing slow burn fantasy.
The story opens with our FMC, a young woman named Clara, being held in a prison called Halazar.
Clara lives in a world where there are people gifted with magic. Instead of wands they use a deck of cards, the magic is separated into four categories: Swords, Coins, Cups and Wands. More powerful than even those are the ten Major spells the ability to kill someone with just their name, the power to remove pain, being able to revive someone from death and teleportation (just to name a few).
The King that rules over them made it against the law for anyone to practice magic without his knowledge, this is so he can use the magic for himself and be more powerful than all the other lands. To accomplish this he has his son, Prince Kaelis, run Arcana Academy a school that teaches and monitors the kids that come into their powers.
This story is one of revenge, betrayal, finding love where it’s least expected, learning to trust again and self-empowerment.
I couldn’t believe how vivid Elise Cova’s world building is and how remarkable her attention to detail is. I felt like I was seeing everything through Clara’s eyes, like I was shadowing her through her journey. I was so engrossed in the story I didn’t want to put it down.
There are a lot of supporting characters that have stories of their own and although they are just as interesting or important none of them overshadow Clara and Prince Kaelis’s.
This is book one of three and ends with a mind blowing cliffhanger.