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

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 (⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️)

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!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
.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! 🫶🏻

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 !

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

Another fabulous read by Ever King. It was delightful returning to the Academy of Magic. This story focuses on Lyla and Bastian, loosely based on Adonis and Aphrodite. At first glance, Bastian appears reckless and uncaring, but as we get to know him, he reveals much more depth, the perfect example of a morally gray character who commits questionable acts to protect those he loves. Meanwhile, Lyla, though initially quiet and demure, discovers the strength to grow beyond what she thought possible.

I'm loving this series, with its continuing underlying storyline for each couple and the beautiful development of both friendships and romantic relationships.

After reading the first installment in Academy of Villians, I honestly didn’t think that anything could top it. I am so glad to be proved wrong!

Lyla and Bastian are the two characters I wanted to learn more about from the very beginning. Both are such complex characters and it was so nice to experience their journey. I loved their character development & the struggles they both overcame in this story.

Bastions journey as a friend and a mage was one that I think all of us can relate to. Torn between duty to his king and whats in his heart was something that I really enjoyed seeing unfold.

Now Lyla? Lyla was the person that I anticipated to become such a vital part of this trilogy and that she did! Fighting self doubt and learning just how powerful she truly is exactly what I was hoping for!

Thank you to Ever King and NetGalley for an early copy of this book! I loved it and can’t wait for book 3!

I’m a proud member of Ever King’s Royal Court of the Everkingdom—huge thanks to Ever King for letting me be part of this amazing community and for the chance to read this eARC!

Lessons in Loyalty picks up right after book one but shifts the spotlight to two previous side characters—Lyla and Bastain. Lyla is a forestmage (which I LOVE) who is a student at the academy while also tending to the academy's greenhouse. She’s soft and gentle but has that quiet strength I’ve really been into lately. Bastain, a spiritmage (also LOVE), is part of the Raven Society and has definitely been through it, taking care of the King. He’s a bit hardened on the outside, but underneath, he’s super compassionate and just... so sweet. These two balance each other perfectly, and I adored watching their relationship grow.

In book one, I felt like the plot moved a little too fast, so I really appreciated that this book slowed things down and focused more on the characters. It was so nice to really get to know them while still moving the story forward in a way that felt natural. There is a natural progression of deepening friendships which also added to the overall story. Plus, we got some great setup for other characters I’m already dying to read more about (TOBIAS... just, wow).

Easily a 5-star read for me. This book felt like it was made just for me, and I couldn’t be happier. If you haven’t started this series yet—do it! It’s such a fun ride and only getting better!

I find the setup of this series incredibly truly captivating, the way the stories are unfolding with each installment.

If you enjoy Greek mythology, this series is a must-read. In case you miss some connections around the mythology there is a section at the back of the book that explains the mythological connections. Which I found that it made me feel that I was learning something while reading.

I have so many theories about which Greek gods the characters represent. I can't wait to see where this series goes next and whose story we will receive next.

Ever King, I am truly a fan for life. Please never stop writing

Thank you EverKing the author and NetGalley for the ARC.

The magic in this story? Pure poetry Butterflies that shift color with emotion, sentient plants, Barklings... I was completely enchanted.
The tension between Lyla and Bastian starts off sharp, crackling with animosity, but watching it bloom into something tender and beautiful had me hooked. Add in grimoires, heartstrings, charm cards, and secrets that threaten to unravel everything... completely obsessed -
If you love fantasy that feels vividly immersive, layered with emotion, magic, and action, this series is your next obsession. Can’t wait for the next one!

I loved this book so much. This was an amazing Greek mythology Romantasy book. So different from the other things I’ve read. Both have been five stars for me and I can’t wait for the third one to come out as well. I hope I can get it as an ARC as well.

After the cliffhanger at the end of the first book, I couldn’t wait to start the second book to see where this story went next. This book jumps right back into the fantastical world built in the first book, but follows two new characters while still progressing the storyline from the first book! I loved getting to know better two new characters and seeing the story develop! I greatly related to the FMC as a bit of a loner book and plant lover myself who sometimes finds solace in just being alone. And the slow burn will they won’t they between the two main characters as they fight their draw to one another was the best if you love a slow burn with a bit of I hate them but I like them vibes. Now I just need the next one to come out asap so I can see what happens next!!

Thank you to both the author and NetGalley for the gifted arc! All opinions given are my own!

Academy of Villains returns with even more magic, mystery, and intrigue in this thrilling second installment of the series. While book one introduced us to the wonders—and dangers—of the magical academy, book two pulls back the curtain even further to reveal the secrets the magical world has been hiding all along.

This time, the spotlight shifts to Lyla, a quiet but powerful forest mage who prefers the company of plants to people. She spends her days in the academy’s greenhouse, avoiding attention despite the many admirers who are drawn to her.

Enter Bastian, a conflicted spirit mage caught between his obligations and his own desires. With his playful nickname for Lyla—"flower girl"—he slowly becomes a part of her world, even as both are pulled deeper into the academy’s darker truths.

Fans of the first book will enjoy seeing familiar faces while getting to know Lyla and Bastian, whose dynamic adds fresh emotional depth and tension to the unfolding story.

If you love magical academies, layered characters, and slow-burning secrets, Academy of Villains book two delivers on all fronts.

Happy reading!

The second book in Academy of Villains continues to deliver! Ever King has crafted a rich world full of magic, tension, and heart. While this installment follows new leads, Lyla and Bastian, their chemistry more than makes up for the shift, Forestmage meets Spiritmage? Yes, please!

I loved Lyla’s kindhearted bravery and fascinating magic, while Bastian’s powers and layered past made him a standout. The tropes, Grumpy x Sunshine, Rivals to Lovers, Found Family, and a Greek myth retelling were executed perfectly, adding great emotional and romantic tension.

The golden apple mystery remains compelling, the side characters shine, and the butterflies? Pure magic. I’m hooked on this series and can’t wait to see what’s next!

King delivers once again! I just love academic settings and vibes, and this definitely has them. The book picked up right where the first left off and we were able to learn more about the characters to build on their development. I absolutely love the mystery puzzle nature of the way it is written. It kept me interested the entire time. I was never bored. So well done!

Omg this! One of my most anticipated reads of 2025! And boy did everkingdom & NetGalley deliver this was the best dark academia , Greek mythology retelling of the year!!! A medium paced novel this time non the less stunning as we move through the story a great character set up Basitian and Lyla a spirit mage and a forestmage romantasy done so well! This series is going to blow up honestly 5 stars ⭐️ just like the 1st book! It was a pleasure to read I cannot wait to see what comes next and complete the series!

“Only a God can kill a God”

“Flowers don’t bloom for admiration, but they’re worshipped for their beauty. “

“He was the poison in my veins and I savoured every drop”

Loved it, loved it, loved it!!!! I don’t actually know what kind of drug this author puts into these books but I always find myself wanting more. There is something so enthralling about the way she seamlessly puts together the romance between the characters and the development of a plot that is bigger than them and while it has a kind of beginning and end in every single book, it tells the story of something more that is still to com’è, making the reader obsessed with finding that out!!!
Lyla and Bastian story intrigued me in a way I was not expecting. They are the most complicated for of beauty and the beast, grumpy sunshine, good girl bad boy, enemies to lovers, banter and he falls first dynamic I have read about in a while.
All wrapped up in Greek mythology retelling fashion and with an academy setting !!! I couldn’t get enough of them. Unfortunately, life got in the way and I couldn’t keep going for other reasons. But when I finally did manage to finish the book … I knew I was a goner for it !!! And when Bastian threw in the magic “good girl” words … it was too late for me to come back !!!
I loved this book deeply and I can’t wait for the next one in this crazy Greek inspired amazing series !!!
“Why do you call me flower girl?”
“Because you bloom … despite all the rot in this world. And that … that makes you rare”

“Not every monster is hideous … Some look just like us”

I was a little worried about the main character shift. I am so happy we still get to see a lot of Lucian and Kiara. But I absolutely loved getting to read Lyla and Bastian as the main characters! Lyla is such a sweet girl who learns how powerful she can be. Bastian is someone I didn't really know how to feel about at first. But wow does his character get a lot of development through this book. The story line was so good. The truths that come out are jaw dropping and the battles have just begun. Can't wait for book 3!

aesthetic: 🦋🌸🗝️🍃💀🥀💫📓🏛️🎀

Lessons in Loyalty is a powerful, immersive sequel that not only builds on the magical chaos of book one, but deepens it with emotional intensity, layered storytelling, and standout mythological integration.

What truly sets this installment apart is the intricate weaving of Greek mythology retellings. The lore is handled with both reverence and creative freedom, reimagining familiar gods, legends, and curses in ways that feel fresh and unpredictable. Every myth felt intentional, thematically relevant, and rich with symbolism—especially as it parallels the characters’ internal struggles and choices.

The characters from the first book return with even more weight and complexity. It was incredible to see how their past decisions ripple through this story, particularly as alliances are tested and loyalties questioned. Their growth is tangible—you feel the ache of their mistakes and the strength of their evolution. The emotional impact of their arcs in this book hits deeper than expected, leaving lasting impressions long after the final chapter.

Romance, betrayal, power struggles, and a healthy dose of magical academia—all of it blends perfectly in a world that feels darkly enchanting and morally grey. This sequel strikes a strong balance between high-stakes action and emotional vulnerability, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end.

If book one cracked open the door to this world, Lessons in Loyalty flings it wide open and dares you to walk through. Ever King continues to prove that this isn’t just a dark academia fantasy—it’s a myth-soaked journey of identity, redemption, and what it truly means to be loyal

Thank you so much to Ever King for the opportunity to read an advanced reader copy of this book.

Full Review will also be posted to TikTok and Instagram (@readwithnaeyy) before the scheduled release date 24/06/25.

A spiritmage with too many secrets.

A forestmage who swore she’d never fall for a villain.

And a thread of fate binding them to a destiny neither can escape.

This is their story.

WOW this was such a journey. Ever since finishing the first book which I really loved, I couldn't wait to start the second book. And I can only say that I absolutely loved and devoured this book. I really love the relationship between Lyla and Bastian. Their banter, how they were protective of each other, I absolutely ate it up.I love how he calls her flower girl. This is a slow burn with some heat, but the focus is definitely on character and relationship development. I really loved the butterflies that were a reflection of Lyla's emotions, it was so cute. I love the found family in this series, all the characters have different personalities and you love every single one of them. And you can’t wait to read their book. I really love the fight scenes in this book.
There are so many things that we find out in this book and there is also so much that we need to find out and learn as the story goes on.There are betrayals and secrets, so much going on that you just want to keep reading the book. And once you finish the book, you can't wait for the next book to come out.
Academy of Villains is a dark academia romantasy series inspired by Greek mythology love stories, where morally complex characters navigate a cursed kingdom, secret societies, and heartstring bonds.
What can you expect:
⚔️ Fated Mates (heartstring)
⚔️ Greek Mythology Retelling: Adonis & Aphrodite
⚔️ Secret societies
⚔️ Slow burn with some heat
⚔️ Academic settings
⚔️ Touch her and ☠️

Thank you to the author Ever King and publisher for providing me with an e-ARC via NetGalley! I can’t wait to continue the story and to read the 3rd book.

Fated Mates (heartstring)
Greek Mythology Retelling: Adonis & Aphrodite
Secret societies
Slow burn with some heat 🌶
Academic settings
Touch her and ☠️
Witches, Mages & Gods

Thank you for allowing me to read! Book 2 did not disappoint. Cannot wait for book no.3 .
Fabulous world building . Absolutely loved the writing style . Definitely added to my fav authors list!