Arcana Academy by Elise Kova
on July 22, 2025
Genres: Fiction / Fantasy / Dark Fantasy, Fiction / Fantasy / Romance, Fiction / Romance / Fantasy
Pages: 576
Format: ARC
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Step into a world of dark academia, dangerous magic, and sizzling slow-burn romance in Arcana Academy, the gripping first installment in Elise Kova’s new romantasy series.
“Fake fiancés. Forbidden magic. Tarot cards that bite back. Welcome to Arcana Academy.”
Clara Graysword is no stranger to survival—she’s made a living using her rare talent to ink magical tarot cards, a crime that earns her a lifetime prison sentence. But just when her future looks bleak, she’s offered a way out: a false engagement to the enigmatic Prince Kaelis, headmaster of Arcana Academy. Thrust into a world of arcane secrets, political scheming, and forbidden power, Clara must walk a fine line between playing her part and protecting her heart.
This book was such a delight to get lost in. Imagine a darker, more mature Hogwarts full of court politics and morally gray characters, and you’ll start to get the vibe. The tarot-based magic system is incredibly unique—I’ve never read anything quite like it. While it took a moment to grasp (pro tip: check the glossary in the back!), I found myself fully invested as the rules of the world began to unfold.
Clara and Kaelis have that delicious kind of tension that keeps you flipping pages, rooting for them one minute and questioning everything the next. Their chemistry is electric, and the slow build is so well done. The supporting cast is just as compelling—layered and mysterious, with storylines that add depth and intrigue without distracting from the main plot.
The court drama? So good. Twists, secrets, and betrayals kept me on the edge of my seat. By the final chapters, I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. And now that I’ve reached the end, I’m already mourning the wait for book two.
This is a story that pulls you in bit by bit until you suddenly realize you’re completely obsessed. I already know I’ll be re-reading it to soak in all the details I missed the first time. If you love academy settings, high-stakes magic, and characters who walk the line between light and shadow, Arcana Academy will absolutely enchant you.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group – Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore | Del Rey for the eARC of this incredible read!
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