Nightshade pulled me in from the very first chapter and didn’t let go. Set against the haunting backdrop of a gothic Scottish university, this story blends revenge, romance, and mystery in the most addictive way.

Ophelia is sharp, guarded, and full of fire—she’s not at Sorrowsong University to make friends; she’s there to uncover the truth behind her parents' deaths. But things get messy fast when Alex enters the picture—her rival, her suspect’s son, and the last person she expected to care about.

Their dynamic is pure tension—grumpy vs. grumpy, hate-to-love, and full of biting banter that somehow turns tender. I was completely hooked on their slow, simmering connection. Their email exchanges had me grinning, and the way their walls start to come down… ugh, my heart.

The dark academia vibes are absolutely spot on: eerie hallways, ancient secrets, academic rivalries, and just the right amount of suspense. There's even a stalker subplot that kept me guessing and totally dialed up the tension.

What I appreciated most was the emotional depth. Both characters are dealing with grief, pressure, and guilt, and you really feel that weight. There are moments that hit surprisingly hard, especially watching Ophelia struggle to let anyone in.

The ending? Cruel. That cliffhanger left me in actual disbelief—I’m going to be thinking about it until the sequel drops.

If you love slow burn, layered characters, messy feelings, and stories that sit somewhere between romance and thriller, Nightshade is one to watch.

Thanks to Netgalley and Zando for the eARC. Ophelia’s parents died four years ago in a helicopter crash as they were leaving the University they worked for. Ophelia gets a full ride to the University and attends with one goal in mind. To find evidence that someone tampered with the helicopter and murdered them. Her suspects son happens to attend the same university. Ophelia and Alex are drawn together but Ophelia fights to stay away. Someone is staking Ophelia. An academic romance with mystery. Couldn’t put it and down can’t wait for the sequel.

I absolutely loved this book!
The setting, characters, plot! Everything
I can't wait for book 2

Alex's character made me fall for him instantly

Omg I am unwell with that ending. I need the second book like yesterday. This is great for fans of LJ Shen and Rina Kent. It's kind of dark academic mafia? They're at a Scottish university but they're all over 21 for some reason and there's murder and hit men and deceit and dark brooding men.

Probably only one pepper - spice is def not the focus. The focus is FMC trying to find the truth about why her parents were killed in a helicopter crash and seek vengeance against those responsible. Except then she falls for one of them.

Side characters definitely leave room for more in the universe.

Huge thanks to zando for the review copy and introducing me to this author

I really don't know what to think.
It took me a while to really enjoy reading it, I felt that the continuity of some scenes didn't make much sense. Sometimes it seemed like a few days had passed, but the characters were talking about weeks. Or that a character was in one place, but in the next paragraph he appeared in another.

When the reading got going, it was a turning point. I really loved the development of the main couple. And the development of the FMC was also great. Alex is a special case, I judged him a lot at first, but now I want to protect him from all evil.

I would have liked it more if there wasn't this cheating plot (it's not between the main couple), but I understand that the author needed a reason for everything and in her head it made total sense.

The ending made me curious to read the next book. I'm anxious!

OMGGGGGGG
I’m actually obsessed with this book. With Ophelia and Alex. With this world. The story. The way he sees her 😭😭😭😭

The way I inhaled the last 30% of this book and I’m SCREAMINGGGGGG. I can’t believe it. 😭😭😭 I need the next book like yesterday wtf

I loved everything about this story. The plot and characters. The yearning and banter. The heavier topics really added to the story but I would check tw. This is a great story. MMC was so supportive, and sweet even if he wasn’t trying. Take a chance on this. You won’t regret it. Good love story!

I need MORE! This book was so good! I was so hooked from page one, it was gripping and the story really had me turning the pages as fast as I possibly can!

3⭐️ 1🌶️

I was so excited for this book. First of all the cover was stunning. The preorder incentive art was stunning. The moody, rainy, dark academia vibes were perfect.

There was a lot I really liked about this book. The banter, the suspense and mysteries, and the way the communicated in crossword puzzle clues was adorable.

But I think I just need to accept defeat and realize that dark academia books might not be for me. Olivia and Alex are young and traumatized so I tried giving them grace, but they were just so immature. I had a hard time believing they were as old as they were supposed to be. I also struggled with the miscommunication/lack of communication trope. So much could have been resolved if Ophelia just talked to Alex.

I’m on the fence about if I’ll pick up the second book. That cliffhanger has me intrigued.

I really loved this book and can't wait for book 2! If you like Dark academia this book will be right up your alley!

Ophelia is our 19th century dressing FMC. She is relatable and you could feel the deep loss she was going through because of losing her parents.

Alex is our dark, depressed rugby player who is falling for Ophelia!

I really liked the banter between our main characters. The ending took me out😳

From the very beginning I was drawn into the book, the setting, the writing, the vibes. It had everything to keep me hooked and I was until the very last page!! Ophelia was so sweet but determined to not let people get the best of her! Alex.. sweet sweet Alex.. amazing book boyfriend material right there!!
The suspense in this was so intriguing but not too much that I couldn’t enjoy the romance story.
That ending?!?!??! I neeeeeeeeex book 2 immediately! This was such a brilliant read and I cannot wait to read more of the series

Nightshade is gothic perfection wrapped in Scottish mist and served with a side of devastating slowburn romance that had me giggling one minute and sobbing uncontrollably the next. (Which is totally a compliment, crying is my favorite hobby)

Finding ourselves alongside Ophelia at the deliciously creepy Sorrowsong University, we're thrown into an investigation in the mysterious circumstances around the death of Ophelia's parents. Alex is the biggest green flag to ever exist. Sure, he's sassy and hilarious, but he has a heart of gold and the protective instincts of a golden retriever with their person. I will commit crimes for this man because he deserves the world. The tension between them was fantastic, but I love the realistic slowburn in him letting her become comfortable and set the pace, not slowburn for the sake of being, well, slow.

I binged through this in a single setting the moment the e-ARC hit my kindle and then was left mourning that I not only didn't have book 2, but that I would have to wait even longer because book 1 wasn't even out yet. The found family elements hit perfectly, the mental health representation was authentic and genuine, and the mystery had me incredibly invested. Alex's sass and unwavering devotion to protecting Ophelia proves that sometimes the best love interests are nothing like their terrible fathers. Fair warning: if you jump into my DMs, I'm going to be screaming and crying about theories on what is coming next.

Overall: 4.5 ⭐️

I was immediately hooked and honestly could’ve read this book in one sitting. This book had all the dark elements I love in gothic romances. Ophelia goes to Sorrowsong University trying to figure out what happened to her parents. What she doesn’t know is that there’s someone there waiting for her. I’m a sucker for mystery and trying to figure out everything before the end. The stalker was really obvious and that’s the only reason this book isn’t 5⭐️s. But that twist in the end had me second guessing everything I thought I figured out😱 Then we have Alex who is just trying to take care of his mom and sisters. From their first encounter they’re drawn to each other. But once Ophelia figures out who Alex’s dad is she starts to push him away. But the invisible string keeps bringing them together and she finds everything she’s been missing in him. I loved the way they cared for each other and how they communicated in the cutest ways. Now after that cliffhanger I need the next book immediately!!!

I also highly recommend the audiobook it was pure perfection. It’s done duet style by Eloise Thompson and Ben Holtzmuller. Since this book is based in the UK the accents made the reading experience so much better!

ARC Review: Nightshade by Autumn Woods
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.5 rounded up)

Nightshade is a fast-paced, atmospheric read that blends dark academia, gothic mystery, and somehow billionaire/mafia romance in a way that feels fresh and addictive. From the very first chapter, I was hooked by the tension, the elite academic setting, and the slow-burning chemistry between Alex and Ophelia. Their banter was sharp, their dynamic compelling, and the romantic undertone gave the story some much-needed softness amidst the darkness.

The dark academia elements were chef’s kiss!! Secrets, cryptic clues, morally gray characters, all set against a moody backdrop. It scratched a very specific itch for me as a reader who loves layers.

That said, the pacing occasionally worked against the clarity of the narrative. There were a few moments where scenes jumped too quickly, settings shifted within the same chapter, or characters were introduced and then seemingly forgotten. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it did leave me wishing for a little more cohesion and depth in places.

The mystery is what truly carried the momentum for me. I found myself flipping pages late into the night just to find out what really happened. While it may not be a flawless masterpiece, it’s absolutely an entertaining ride for fans of romantic suspense, dark academia, and twisty plots with an edge.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and Autumn Woods for the opportunity to read an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

PHEW. My Dark Academia perfection streak continues, because I DEVOURED this. LIke, read in one sitting level of devoured.

The vibes of this were unmatched--it's dark without being bogged down in creating the atmosphere. You really get the "this is a dark and depressing college and everything is anxiety inducing" energy without being reminded about it every 2 minutes.

I LOVED the dual POV, and would read a whole book from Alex's POV, if I"m being honest. I loved that the chapter split wasn't 50/50--that we only occasionally get Alex's POV as a supplement. A little taste of what's going on in his mind. And the main reason I'm okay with it?

The BANTER. I loved all of the dialogue (And emails. And texts.) between Ophelia and Alex. I thought it was absolutely HILARIOUS and relatable, because I too am incredibly snarky constantly and thrive on wordplay and sarcasm whenever possible. I also commit to any bit that comes to my way, and both of them do as well. It's the perfect mix of genuine conversation and banter so it doesn't feel stale, and I think it grows really well with the character development they both have.

This story was so fun and doesn't fall victim to "everything happens in the last 10% of the book, so it feels like it comes out of nowhere." There's a really good ramping up of anxiety and pacing where things start coming together and falling through to the resolution without feeling rushed.

I love Ophelia's character arc, shifting from a small and unsure mess with one thing on her mind, to a more confident and angry women...who still has one thing on her mind, but also has a reason to live now. And Alex? We love a man in therapy. Men in therapy is my absolute favorite thing in fantasy/dark academia books, and this one was no exception.

I cannot WAIT for the second book to see what happens next, because these sweet baby angels deserve happiness!!

This one surprised me in the best way. It kicks off with tension and keeps twisting deeper with each chapter. There’s a darker, grittier tone under the romance and tropes that made it hard to walk away from once I got going.

Ophelia is sharp, guarded, and easy to root for. I liked how her grief and anger weren’t glossed over, and how that made her connection with Alex feel a little more earned. Their dynamic is complicated and yes, a little toxic at times, but it worked for me.

It’s dramatic, emotional, and just the right amount of chaotic. Great for anyone craving a darker academic setting with sharp edges and complicated characters.

WHAT IN TARNATION, OMG.

I truly needed a minute to sit with that ending because dear lord Autumn Woods, it just wasn’t even fair. Obviously I knew it was part one of a duet, but somehow I’m always shocked when the ending emotionally destroys my will to live.

Absolutely fabulously written, I had such a good time. I really connected with the author in this one. All of her references hit with me, and even some of the language she used. Felt very authentic university student, which I really enjoyed.

Ophelia, our dear sweet Ophelia. My heart bleeds for her, obviously trying to expose the man who had her parents killed takes a toll on her psyche. But I really just felt for her, all she really wants is people.

And Alex. So perfect, he’s a god tier yearning I swear. If you are here for the “who did this to you trope” I’m pretty sure this one changed my life. He just checked all of my boxes, mysteriously aloof, cold and distant BUT secretly a cinnamon roll. 10/10, I mean I guess he would have to be with SIX sisters.

Nightshade feels like mafia meets academia romance and I am so here for it. If you liked Nocticadia by Keri Lake, I think you will love this one too!!! I highly recommend it, but be cautioned- it hurt !!!! Also always check your triggers obviously!

4.5 ★
OKAY. I’ve been pressed about this one for weeks and when I got approved for the trad pub edition on NetGalley I smoooooth almost cried. I’d been seeing the author post about the vibes, the characters, the dark academia energy, and I just knew this would be my thing—and it was.

Let me start by saying: I had just DNF’d three books in three days. THREE. I was in a slump, a wasteland. Then Nightshade walked in with its fog-drenched Scottish university, mysterious deaths, enemies-to-lovers slow burn, and I was hooked. Ophelia Winters is that girl—sharp, hurting, on a mission—and I would follow her through fire. Alex Corbeau-Green? Unfairly hot. Tall, damaged, morally gray heir to generational trauma and a suspicious legacy? I’m listening (also this man is literally me, just a depressed king trying to off himself, hello??)

The chemistry between these two is fire. Like genuinely hot af. No thoughts, just vibes.

Also, this book had me in a chokehold with its pacing. I was getting toward the end thinking, “Okay, this is all wrapping up nicely… wait… huh… WHY IS THERE SUDDENLY EMOTIONAL DEVASTATION???” I was played. Utterly. It’s a duology and I have to wait??? WHEN WILL I KNOW PEACE???

Tbh, I really liked all of it—the atmosphere, the tension, the hidden motives, the heartbreak. It gave what it needed to give. If you're into dark academia, twisted legacies, and slow-burn romance with teeth, this one’s for you.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be screaming into the void until book two drops.

4.5 ★

“𝙈𝙮 𝙨𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙄 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙙𝙤 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚. 𝙎𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛𝙞𝙨𝙝. 𝙎𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙫𝙤𝙡𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩, 𝙢𝙮 𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛𝙞𝙨𝙝 𝙖𝙘𝙩, 𝙢𝙮 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙧𝙚."

Oh, this was ADDICTING. From the first chapter I was hooked, pulled into the dark mystery that Ophelia had been working to uncover. From there, it was the relatable emotions and insecurities, banter, and mysteriousness that had me wanting to read this non-stop.

Ophelia and Alex; a gloomy, introverted swimmer with a traumatized past on a mission for revenge, and a rich, sarcastic rugby player. They were never meant to be together yet worked so well. They became the light in each other's darkness, the comfort one another needed, the best of friends. I loved seeing their relationship develop from fiery angst to desire and yearning. Alex is a MAN, I loved him, have no notes. I loved Ophelia's development throughout the story, as well, seeing her grow from this broody, quiet woman to one who opened up and let others in.

Also, the emails?! I was living for those and the crossword flirting. The stalking, the mystery, the unraveling secrets, everything about this book kept getting more intense and more intriguing.

I can't wait to read book 2 after that ending because I desperately need to know what's going to happen between them now

This was a fun read! Was it a tad predicable? Yes. But was I hooked in to every moment with a brilliant cliffhanger! Eagerly waiting for the final part!
Dark academia, who done it, murder mystery, grumpy main characters with yearning and angst!!
This book really did take me by surprise with how much i enjoyed it.