I didn’t like this book as much as the first one, it’s still a good book and I definitely still liked it, it just felt a lot slower and I struggled to get into it.

Although I missed reading about Kiara, I did enjoy Lylas and Bastians story. I especially loved Lylas butterflies, I think they are incredibly cool. Lyla and Bastian are strong characters and I loved reading about their powers and their dynamic together.

Another thing I loved was the female empowerment, the girls and their friendship was amazing, how close they all are, their courage and strength, just all of it was so incredible to read, I loved it.

Overall, I did enjoy this book, I just felt like it was quite slow paced and unfortunately I didn’t like it as much as the first one. I still recommend it, it’s a good book, a really good sequel and I’m intrigued to see what happens next.

Full review on Goodreads but this book was well worth all the time it took me reading it and I cannot wait for book 3.

Rich and complex romantasy with the perfect blend of intrigue, adventure, mystery, secrets, prophecies, and sizzle. Strong characters and plot keep everything moving, and I think this one is even better than the first! Can be standalone but even better if you read the first one.

This one was honestly such a joy to read! It managed to mix darkness with the most adorable romantic moments ever and I LOVE the main couple! 💗☺️
It has little touches of Greek mythology which really added to the worldbuilding for me - I loved seeing if I had spotted everything! I cannot wait for the next book, they are all intertwined so we are catching glimpses of the other couples’s love stories through this one (which I have never seen done so well!)🥰

Violence Rating: Level 3 - ⚔️⚔️⚔️ - it’s dark but that is more the aesthetic than gore and graphic violence on page!
Romance Rating: 🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️🛡️I’m not sure what to rate this - it is more explicit than I usually read! We have a couple of open door scenes that last for multiple pages - I would say a Swoony C but the upper end! If you know me you know that I usually read no-spice but this I would say does brush into that category! It all depends on what you are looking for 💗
Damsel Reader Recomendation: Upper YA/NA

As I'm beginning to realise, every book I read of Ever King's (past and future), I will adore and have adored. I cannot begin to explain how much I enjoyed reading this book. This story has so many meanings and messages that make reading it much more than just escapism. Lyla and Bastian were everything of course but the friendships and difficulties they face together also shine through and how they grow together. I also loved the female friendships and support and how even though two friends may seem close, there's always room for more. You must read Ever King's books now and in the future because if you don't you are truly missing out. You get to escape to a world far away but feel part of it through her writing. If you like romantasy then I would definitely recommend the Academy of Villains. This book series is meant for you if you want more than escapism (thank you Ever King). I cannot wait to read the next book (literally I can't wait).

Thank you to net galley, the publisher and Ever King for allowing me to receive an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Actual rating is 4.5 stars

Our next instalment of Academy of Villians did not fail to deliver.

I liked that we carry on from where we left off in book 1 and still have lots of input from Lucian, Kiara and a number of the other characters we met in book 1 but we finally start to get some answers to the mysteries that are going on as well as ending up with even more questions.

I loved Lyra, she is gentle and soft on the outside but once she starts forming friendships and developing a circle of people she cares about she becomes protective and strong.
Bastian is clearly very traumatised by his dark past and he clearly masks a lot so I loved seeing Lyra bring out his tender side.

I cannot wait to see where this story goes next although I have a lot of theories about the missing princess and the witches.

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

✨️I’m not afraid of your truth. I’m afraid of losing you to it.”✨️

This book has the potential to be a good series 👏 the plot, characters and the WORD building is amazing!

It was the thing that drew me to the 1st book, and I was looking forward to the 2nd book and getting the POV's for Lyla and Bastian!! Their powers were cool and I loved getting to know their character; I liked Lyla's the vivid imagery when she would take her Grimorie out and her butterflies around her changed colors depending on her mood was really cool and her little plant freinds adorable!

But unfortunately for ME their relationship
was taken too far for my liking, It was more lust than love. And unlike the 1st book where Lucian & Kiara's relationship was more genuine and more slow burnnn
(Something I really liked)

Bastian's & Lyla's relationship for me was just alot of heavy sensual lustful desires and honestly that's my bad going into this book. Ever King said that she would progressively add more spice.

I wanted more slow-burnn ya know?! Like pretty sure ch 11 they had alREADY started making out lol like dang you guys can't wait a little bit, get to know each other first talk about dreams and goals over some tea or something 🤭 🙈 don't get me wrong the writing is AMAZING & I love the series! But I had to give it 3 stars. Also Ch 33 we got a Lucian chapter ahhhh thank you I missed him!

As always thank you Netgalley & EverKing for the ARC read

Sensual content; Heavy make-out, magical elements, intense fighting scenes
Ch 17: Heavy make-out scene last half a page
🌶 : Ch 37,48
Mild language

Rating:🐇🐇🐇🐇/5

The narrative continues to unfold. Academy of Villains: Lessons in Loyalty was magnificent. I had truly a remarkable time spending this time with Bastian and Lyla.

The first book was extremely action-packed. It was a great example of being plot driven – jumping right into the action. I think book two really showcased the beauty of a character driven story. It had a healthy dose of plot and intrigue but allowed a deeper look into the characters – their fears, flaws, intentions and their hearts.

I was completely awestruck by Lyla from the very first chapter. We LOVE a Forestmage. She is literally Mother Earth incarnate. I resonated a lot with her. She has such a soft nature that often does not get taken seriously and wants to be recognized for her strength, but she needs to embody that power. I think many women can relate to Lyla’s struggle. Kiara is often revered for her power but there is also immense strength in being soft and embracing one’s true self. I think Lyla was able to demonstrate that nuance beautifully.

BASTIAN. Someone just needed to give this man a damn hug. He is such a sweet, soft man that has been hardened and victimized by his circumstances. I really enjoyed reading about his capabilities as a Spiritmage. That was a very new concept for me and I was transfixed. Bastian is the definition of a protector, and we love to see it.

I ALSO LOVE THE FEMALE EMPOWERMENT. The women and their friendship in this series is just top tier.

I cannot wait for the rest of the series. I am desperately waiting for my Kaspian book – OH LORD THAT MAN IS FINE.

I will say my ONLY hiccup with this was the sex scene between Bastian and Lyla - the one involving like spirits and souls. It was a bit strange and a bit confusing for me. I think it could have done without, personally but other readers may absolutely love that.

This book was so good !
I love this series and the worldbuilding got even better this book. The twists were really good and giving background to the characters was also well done.
I really enjoyed the plot and cannot wait to see where the story goes.

Picking up right where book 1 left off, but with the POV focusing on Lyla and Bastian, the adventure continues as they discover more secrets, uncover more of the kingdom’s history, embark on dangerous quests, and become even closer to breaking the curse and freeing their kingdom.

As an added bonus we get sassy sentient plants, more magical creatures, a funny nerdy ghost, and an extra creepy side villain.

I love that the group is growing, and we get to experience more of the personalities of these characters especially how they interact with one another. Bastian is probably my favorite MMC of all time. The man can do no wrong. Even though he has… a lot.
Unfortunately I was not as enamored with Lyla. Though, I did enjoy her overall development and watching her come into her power. Their chemistry was perfect.

Overall, this was a great read and I’m thoroughly invested in where this goes next.
Thanks for the opportunity!

Ever King has created a series that I absolutely love!! This one is just as good and exciting as the first book!!

Academy of Villains brings mythology and dark academia into a the perfect pairing - making this series one that is worth devouring in a binge read.

I just don't even know how to put into words how I feel about Ever King's series - one thing is for sure, this series and this author is under-hyped, under recognized!

✦ Romantasy + Retelling of Adonis & Aphrodite Rec! ✦

Lessons in Loyalty
by Ever King
Book 2 ✦ Academy of Villains
Pub Date: June 24, 2025

𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 (𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴)
𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴
𝘚𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘵
𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 & 𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘴
𝘛𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 ☠️
𝘎𝘰𝘥𝘴/𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴/𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴

~𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬~
Academy of Villains is a dark academia romantasy where morally complex characters navigate dark magic, fated mate bonds, and secret societies in a cursed kingdom. Each book follows a different couple inspired by a Greek mythology love story, packed with political intrigue, monsters, romance, and high-stakes trials. If you’re a fan of character-driven romantasy, unique world-building, and dual POV storytelling, Academy of Villains is your next obsession.

~𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬~
And the saga continues! A marvelous follow up story weaving myth and magic into a retelling of Aphrodite and Adonis’ love story. I am fascinated with this series and cannot wait to see where it goes next. Ever King has created a fantasy world that is entertaining, empowering, romantic, and just a little perilous and I’m here for all of it. The plot follows a new love story but weaves in the same characters from book one perfectly which solidified my love for this series.

The strength of the Academy of Villains series lies not just in its individual characters but in how their paths weave together, creating a multi-layered narrative filled with unforgettable characters, searing chemistry, clues that have you questioning what’s going to happen next, and action.

Another aspect that I love about this series is the theme of female empowerment. Their courage, their strength, their compassion, and their fierce support for other women in the book was so encouraging to read.

⏩ Swipe to meet the main characters!

Lyla Stark and Bastian Lightcroft’s connection was not forced. It grew and it was sweet. A slow burn with some heat. I love how he calls her flower girl.

✦ Academy of Villains is a series that fans of romantasy should add to their TBR. ✦

Thank you for the #gifted eARC @authoreverking and @netgalley !

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
.5🌶️

Speechless. Shooketh.

Listen, the first book had me by the throat. The story was so fucking good, the characters, *chef’s kiss*, but this one? THIS BOOK???????? Holy fuck.

I’ve always been a fan of Greek mythology and that’s what drew me to this series in the first place. The way Ever mixes in little, lesser known tidbits of myth into the stories, Jesus.

Seeing the overall plot continue and grow from book one only solidified my love for this series even more. I love everything about the magic system, the politics, the characters, the little clues and peeks at things that have you questioning what’s going to happen next.

Lyla was definitely the underdog. To go from a pretty, demure, sweet woman to a fierce warrior who fights for the truth was so incredible to see. Her romance with Bastian, grappling with the truth of her own existence, and trying to stop the King and amorous from destroying the world? She’s more than just a flower girl. She’s a badass.

Sweet baby Bastian. I don’t care what anyone says, he was a victim, too. To lose his brother for defying the king and then living with that terror for himself and his family? It’s no wonder he did what he needed to survive. While I didn’t support everything he did, I understand why he did it and I still feel for him. He deserves all the love in the world.

I cannot WAIT to see where this series goes, who book 3 is about, and what’s going to happen with the entire world.

Thank you so much to Ever for the ARC of this book! 🫶🏻

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

Back in the dark academia halls of a cursed kingdom! SO much pining between Bastian and Lyla. I was glad to see him open up more to her as the story progressed (even if I think she could have let him sweat it out a little but it's all good in the end :P). I loved seeing the girls band together to help work on solving their god problem. Quick pacing made things move right along and the ending has me 👀 for the next one.

Final thoughts? Loved the personalities of all the plants and Samson's snark. I'm sus of the cat and <spoiler>have a theory on the princess</spoiler>

And we are back again! This was a great follow up to Academy of Villains!
I'm loving this fantasy-world, the magic and the story - AND the characters! This was everything I wanted it to be!

The chemestry between Bastian and Lyla was good but the way the relasionship evolved was great!
There's action, tension, banter and so many moments you just want to relive. Oh and there's a bit of spice too ;)

I liked how the first book had Kiara and Lucian ad maincharacters and we got some other POV in Lessons in Loyalty (which is a very fitting title) - and I look forward to see the POV change again/back :)

I really enjoyed the female empowerment and Lyla will be close to my heart - and so will Bastian, but for some other reasons...

4,5 stars and a thanks to Netgalley for the ARC - BUT an even bigger thanks to Ever King for bringing this series to life!

Thank you to the author and publisher for providing me with an e-ARC via NetGalley! That in no way influenced my review of the book and all opinions are my own.

Ever King cannot write a bad book. Like it isn’t possible. Everything she touches is pure GOLD and I am so here for it. I would give her my soul if that’s what she wanted because I am so devoted to this series.

My favourite parts were the angst and the pining. The emotions within this book were so raw and open, and I love the different character POVs. It really helps us to get into the characters minds and understand their thoughts and feelings. Bastian is so pure and I just want to protect him with my life 🥹
Lyla is also incredible and I love a female character who has her own stuff sorted and doesn’t rely on anyone else for support. The fact that she’s a gardener and a forest mage makes my heart so happy. And the Barklings?! SQUEEEEE I love them
The world building is one of my favourite things of this series. The descriptions are so beautifully vivid and I find it really easy to picture the scenes in my head. Especially the library and the celestial sky!!
This book was a good mix of plot and character building. It flowed really well and I found it so easy to follow. There’s a really nice mix of characters that are different, and god my heart hurts for Tobias, I want to protect him and keep him safe forever!!

I’m so thankful to be part of this community that Ever has built!

Rating: 5/5 stars (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

Yes!!! This book absolutely delivered—and at a much quicker pace than the first one, which made it such a fun and thrilling ride. Ever King is killing it with this series!

✨ Spoiler-Free Summary:
The crew is back, piecing together clues and mysterious necklaces… all while leveling up their gardening game. We get a deeper look into Mr. Sketchypants himself—Bastian—and trust me, it’s a side you won’t expect. A surprising new romance blooms (and nope, it’s not the one you’re thinking of!). Meanwhile, a certain predator finally gets what’s coming to him after harassing a very important flower—wink wink.

🌟 Vibes & Themes:
This installment moves at a much quicker, more engaging pace, which made the mystery-solving even more enjoyable. There’s a delicious game of cat and mouse filled with tension that builds until two characters finally confess their feelings. The romantic tension is chef’s kiss.

What really stood out was the strong sense of female empowerment. The women in this book support each other fiercely and don’t rely on the guys to put the puzzle pieces together. It’s refreshing to see women solving problems, backing each other up, and growing into their own.

Character development continues to shine—each character is on their own journey, and the way their partners support them (without overstepping) was beautifully written. Respect, boundaries, and growth all get a moment in the spotlight.

🏫 Other Highlights:

The school setting still adds charm, and the group shenanigans are as entertaining as ever.
The FIGHT SCENE? Iconic. Flower finally serves Grunge Regina George the audacity she’s been carrying around, and it’s so satisfying.
Loved the underlying message: You can be independent and happy on your own—but having a supportive partner doesn’t take away from that. It’s a powerful and positive takeaway for readers.
🔥 Spice Level: 2/5
A slow burn with some heat, but the focus is definitely on character and relationship development.

🌸 Final Thoughts:
I am obsessed with this series and cannot wait to see where it goes next! Ever King has created a world that’s fun, empowering, romantic, and just a little dangerous—and I’m here for all of it.

Tropes:
Magic
Touch her and die
Closed Proximity
Gods/Witches
Falls fast

As a member of the Royal Court of Ever King, I'm able to ARC read the academy of Villains books when they are ready to be proof read. I'm so blessed with the opportunity to do so.

This book is the second Academy of Villains book called "Lessons in Loyalty" and will be released on the 24th of June and is categorized as a Greek mythology / dark fantasy novel.

I loved the first book, uncovering heartstrings and unlocking them for all of the other people out there. A heartstring is a bit like a soulmate but on another level, a tether of sorts. Dark magic roaming the kingdom, a king that's nothing more than a vessel. Kiara and prince Lucian are the main characters in book 1.

In this book, we still follow Kiara and Prince Lucian, but have a new pair of Main characters.. Lyla, the girl from the greenhouse and Bastian, alchemist and member of the raven society. This storyline is also enemies to lovers but the story from the first book progresses. With the king being possessed by a God named Moros, and the Darkwing Bloodline being nothing more than a vessel of sorts, Lucian is struggling, is his father truly gone? Lost to this god?

Lyla, Kiara and Octavia are studying about starwarriors and how to access their pendents but also train with Bastian to learn how to fight in combat and how to be more confident in casting magic. The way the greenhouse is described is so magical. The butterflies... Surreal. I really liked to get to know Lyla better and how misunderstood Bastian really is. How the love progresses, or lust?

Bastian is a guy with soooo many secrets, with the amount of secrets and the danger of some of them coming to light or the danger of people getting hurt he keeps everyone at arms length, no one truly knows him, not even his "brothers" from the raven society. His association with the beast of thorns and how deep his tasks for the king are.. He will open up, eventually.

The story is somewhat slow paced, it's really story building with a lot of.. How do I say it? Extended descriptions? Let me explain, if a read a few lines and close my eyes, I can actually imagine seeing it in my mind.

This quote was my favorite, Bastian is the one that says it "better to die chasing something extraordinary than live ordinary.

The line that actually made me roll my eyes because this line is used way to much in stories by all different authors is " I let out a breath I didn't realise I was holding " or a variety of it. It's in this book 3 times (maybe more) I really dislike that line.

But the story, the backstory, the fantasy, the details and the enemies to lovers keeps me hooked. 4,5 stars from me.