This story is about Clara, our FMC, who has been sentenced to spend the rest of her life in jail after being caught inking tarot cards illegally. But when she thinks her luck had run out, she finds herself having to accept a proposition from Prince Kaelis, our MMC. He isn’t only a prince but also the headmaster of the prestigious Arcana Academy, a place where arcanists go to learn the craft of inking tarot cards.

First of all, I absolutely loved and was fascinated by the magic system in this book. It was so intricate and I kept wanting to learn more about every part of it.

I’m also always up for a school/university/academy setting and this book didn’t disappoint in that area. I loved following the students through their different classes, tests and trials. The entry test was especially interesting.

I loved the first half of this book; I loved learning about Clara, her banter with Kaelis was on point and I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next for everyone.

Sadly, the second half of this book got really repetitive and I struggled to connect with the two main characters and all the other side characters and just didn’t really care about what would happen to them. I didn’t see any evolution or growth from Clara and was waiting for more, especially after such a great beginning. I didn’t mind the plot twists, even if they were pretty obvious, but like we say in French: je suis restée sur ma faim.

I’m not sure yet if I will continue this series, but can totally see people loving this book.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and Hodder & Stoughton for giving me the opportunity to read this e-arc!

Once I wrapped my head around this complex world I was hooked. I loved this! It’s got action, tension, mystery and so many twists. The ending WTF! I think I know where it’s going- but I trust nothing at the this point! This was so well crafted, and had me turning page after page- even though I’d said just one more chapter an hour ago!

Arcana Academy by @elise.kova
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I absolutely get the hype about Arcana Academy! It's such a fun ride! The magic system is one of the best I have read, it uses tarot cards, which is just so cool and imaginative. We have so many badass characters and everyone has their own agenda, which I love. AND THERE IS A HEIST! I love a heist. So much, and is set in a school, and just everything is top tier.

I absolutely loved this one from Elise Kova couldn’t put it down and had to pause the ever growing tbr.

What a way to interpret tarot into a magic system I loved it.

5 star easily and cannot wait to pick up the full trilogy as and when it releases

Arcana Academy completely pulled me in and I couldn’t put it down! The tarot-based magic system was so unique and easy to follow, even as someone with zero tarot knowledge. I loved Clara as a strong yet vulnerable FMC, and the slow burn between her and Kaelis? Perfection. The fake engagement, enemies-to-lovers tension, and forced proximity hit just right.

The story has a dark academia vibe, deep character work, and emotional twists that kept me hooked. That ending? Absolutely wrecked me, in the best way. I need book two immediately.

This book was a bomb. So many good description, interesting relantionships, the worldbuilding was so captivating and the characters complex. I can't decide which one i lime the most, because each of them hâd Something special and unic about them, something that makes you like them sometime and sometime get annoyed with them. Clara's and Kaelis relantion was a like a sweet care with many strawberies, delicious and addicted. Can't wait to see what the future has for our heroine. I want a psysical copy too

So my first comparison was this is very Harry Potter like!

I really enjoyed the dark academia & tarot card magic system. It's a concept that I haven't really come across and it works and is refreshing and interesting to read.

My only negative is that I didn't feel connected to any of the characters!
4.5*

😍 Clara and Kaelis are perfect 😍

The Tarot magic system is intriguing, I really liked learning all the intricacies of each card and all the innate abilities, it's really delved into deeply and I ate it all up. Even the swears are Tarot related, I loved all of it.

'Four Suits' The tension between Clara and Kaelis was utter perfection. I loved every minute of them together and I want more.

The Academy itself was fun to read about with all the twists and turns of the plot culminating in an ending that shocked me.

I have never read from this Author before, but now I will be seeking out her other books as I am enamoured by her writing and I need! the next book in this series.

Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for an eARC copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

Thank you to the author and publishers for allowing me an ARC via NetGalley!!

Wow…I have no words. This book made me feel so many emotions. This is the epitome of ‘slow burn’ and I LOVE it. This book broke my heart into a million pieces, fixed it again, then broke it again. The ending is torturous but my god, it lit my soul on fire. This has so many great tropes and themes, such as dark academia (obviously), enemies to lovers, ‘touch her and die’, and forced proximity; all of my favourite things!!
The depth of the characters was so interesting and intricate, I found them really easy to relate to. There’s a diverse range of characters too which was really good to read. The plot is incredible, and I found it easy to follow, as the writing style is amazing. The characters had their own back stories, and the emotions of the FMC character are complex in the best way. I love a strong FMC who doesn’t need ‘saving’, but there was a nice vulnerability added to her which made her human.
I really loved this book and I will donate my whole entire soul for the second one!

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

Elise Kova pulls us into the kingdom of Oricalis, where magic is powerful—but tightly regulated. The only legal way to practice it is by graduating from Arcana Academy, an elite institution.

But first, you have to pass the Chalice Trial: a difficult test where you sacrifice something personal and fight a possible version of your own future.
Once inside, each student is sorted into a House inspired by the Minor Arcana of tarot, based on a series of trials. Your House defines your rivalries, obligations, and status.

The magic system is entirely based on engraved tarot cards—real cards infused with power. Only certified arcanists can legally craft and use them.
Breaking this rule comes with serious consequences.
In this world, magic is both a gift and a cage—socially and politically.

The main character, Clara Graysword, is a young woman with no privileges, arrested for illegally engraving tarot cards. She's talented, ambitious, and—above all—driven by a clear anger toward a system that leaves behind anyone without the right bloodline or last name.

Her shot at redemption comes from Kaelis, prince and headmaster of the academy, who offers her a deal: pretend to be his fiancée, help him with his plan, and in return, earn a second chance.

Kaelis is your classic cold, calculating, morally gray character. But behind his schemes lies something deeper, and the tension between him and Clara builds page after page—through forced alliances, sharp silences, and boundaries that keep blurring.

Alongside them is a cast of compelling side characters that add depth to the story with rivalries, secrets, and mystery.

Arcana Academy is an adult romantasy and the first in a trilogy, with some (light) dark academia elements.

It’s a story that blends magic, romantic tension, and a subtle reflection on power and identity. Expect a slow-building narrative with immersive worldbuilding, emotional stakes, and twists that hit just right.

Perfect for those looking for a magical academy that breaks the mold, with an original system and unforgettable characters.
It’s not flawless, sure—but it’s engaging. And the tarot-based magic system is genuinely fascinating.

❤️ Fake engagement
🔥 Slow burn
⚔️ Enemies to lovers
🏠 Forced proximity
🏫 Magical school
🕵️ Hidden identity
🖤 Morally gray love interest
👑 Girlboss x cold royal

In the past few months, there were two romantasy reads that really stood out to me: The Rose Bargain and—above all—Arcana Academy 🃏

Is it perfect? Definitely not. There are flaws, clichés, a bit of predictability in the plot, and some rough edges in how different elements are handled.
(But it’s the first in a trilogy, so I’m holding off judgment on some fronts.)

Still, it was fun, it gave me the escape I was looking for, and—most importantly—it hooked me.
I already wish I had book two in my hands!

In the meantime, I’ll definitely be grabbing the physical copy this July!

Thanks again to @netgalley for the e-ARC 🧡

This was my first ever Elise Kova book (I have of course heard of her others, but this one spoke to me the most), and it really did not disappoint. People were not wrong when they said she can't write a bad book. The best way I can explain this book is Fourth Wing-esque trials blended with the magic and wonder of Caraval, and then thrown into a dark academia environment. Basically it felt like a drug to read. I could not stop turning the pages.

To begin with, the magic system in this book is so absolutely unique. I LOVE tarot cards and was so happy to read a fantasy book based on them. The writing explained the system just enough at times but not enough to overwhelm you, which I feel can sometimes happen in fantasy books. I really enjoyed learning Kova's interpretations of each of the cards and what they could be used to do in this world. I loved both the FMC and MMC. I loved the agency the FMC had and the way she fought for herself and her family/friends. I would have maybe liked to see more of the secondary characters, but that is the only critique I could find for this book.

For a book thats over 500 pages, it did not take me long to finish. And then I was on my floor. Wailing. I cannot believe I have to wait until next year to see what becomes of that cliffhanger.

5 stars, honestly.

I have been reading Elise’s books for over 5 years and I was really looking forward to this new series.
The premise was interesting, definitely felt new and original in a genre which can feel very same-y. The magic system did feel a little convoluted at first but became clearer as the story progressed.

3.75 rounded up.

ok this magic system was absolutely brilliant and I loved learning everything about it. it was done so brilliantly that it just wasn't dumped on you and then left you to try and remember what was going on. it felt like a breeze trying to understand the magic system - bravo! It was so unique and clever!

I haven't read any books by Elise Kova before (I am unsure if this is a debut or if Kova has written any other books before) and I was very impressed. If Kova has written more books, I will definitely be reaching for them in the future. I will also be reaching for book two as that ending was just brilliant.

I kept turning the pages as fast as I could and somehow read the book in a mere couple of hours. The element of sacrifice to enter the academy upped the stakes from the very beginning. And if you're a fan of the fake engagement trope, then you are in for a TREAT with this book. AND THE SLOW BURN??????? I LOVED IT!! There are some spicy scenes in this book, but if that isn't for you then I would skip chapter 50 and 52 as these are a bit explicit.

My only fault is that the secondary characters blended into the background a bit too much. I kept forgetting who was who and what they did, whether they were important or not. I think it could have been because this book was a bit complex at points with the magic system and everything else that was going on. But other than that, I absolutely loved it.

If this book doesn't become popular, then I don't know what will.

A beautifully dark academia filled with danger, challenge and the risk of betrayal at every turn.
The main character is forced to keep her cards close to her chest at all times for fear of anyone finding out who she really is.
The power of Tarot creates an air of intrigue and makes this story particularly unique.
All of the characters have something to contribute to the story and helps it along mystery by mystery.
Fighting for life, truth and freedom, Clara regains her tenacity and strength from the one person she always considered her enemy and wound up trusting more than anyone else in her life as an initiate of Arcana Academy.
With tropes of enemies to lovers, betrayal, forced proximity and found family this is a fantasy to watch out for as the series continues.

In a world full of fantasy books that started being repetitive and there’s nothing that stands out THIS BOOK definitely stands out. It’s so refreshing to see a new magic system that’s so well executed and you’re looking forward to read more and more about it and unveil and know everything about it. Obsessed! The characters are so well written, i loved all of them even the ones that wanted me to get inside the book and kill them myself. I’m so looking forward to the next book that i don’t know how am i supposed to wait this long.

For a book that clocks in at over 500 pages, Arcana Academy wastes no time getting to the action. We begin with Clara: imprisoned, vengeful, and newly bloodthirsty - thrust straight into the gilded, dangerous halls of the Academy. The tarot-based magic system felt fresh at first glance, though I’ll admit I occasionally lost track of the mechanics and the number of Arcana involved. Still, if you suspend disbelief and open yourself to the chaos, it's a mostly enjoying and action-packed ride.

One of the highlights was Clara’s dynamic with her classmates: particularly Luren and Alor (an favourite of mine by the end), and their little motley crew. I only wish we’d spent more time with them; the group had the makings of something even richer.

And Kaelis? Our brooding, void-born prince with a utopian dream and a smirk to match. He practically drips charisma. The gravitational pull between him and Clara was electric - two celestial bodies resisting orbit, but always circling back to one another. Their chemistry were pretty off-the-scales, and I imagine is what most readers come for, and will be satiated with.

The writing shines when conjuring up the murky corridors of secret societies and the day-to-day rituals of arcane study. That said, I did find the more intimate scenes between Clara and Kaelis a little jarring in tone, more crass and abrupt, and a bit at odds with the otherwise gentler-paced jibes between the two. I know it probably is intention from their pent-up ~tension~, but reading through parts of it still left me scratching my head slightly.

Still, I’m a sucker for a juicy cliffhanger so I’m looking forward to the next instalment...

I loved the Arcana Academy! From the very first page, it had me hooked. The Tarot magic system was unique and very cool. The worldbuilding was well balanced, allowing us into this new and fascinating world without slowing the story. The MCs had depth and flaws that gave their relationship the layers we need in this genre and specifically in a series. I still don't know what will happen for them! The book ended on a bang and the promise of more secrets and agendas to be revealed. As with all the good books, we're left feeling both thrilled and devastated that we have another book to wait for!

The following review contains HEAVY SPOILRES!!!!!

I had really high hopes for this book by reading the synopsis, but unfortunately this book wasn't for me.
I will start with the things that I liked.
The idea of the magic system was intriguing and the artful and beautiful way they draw each and every card was fascinating, and for 70% of the book it was easy to follow.
But from one point onward it got all over the place that I honestly got confused. One example was at the end scene and why Clara didn't use the Death card she had on Ravin since you have one try of using a Major Arcana that is not yours? Moreover, how did Bristara die? Ravin said Clara's name and Bristara ended up dead, and I wasn't sure if the card that Clara used was to blame? It got a bit muddy and unclear who can use what and how, at least for me.
Clara as a character was extremely toxic instead of badass and driven, and she constantly complained and wondered if she can trust Kaelis and at the same time she made zero effort to know him better so she can decide. Only gave him the silent treatment most of the time and avoided him. No personal questions, only trying to dig info about his mission and Arina and nothing more. Speaking of Arina another confusing thing in the plot was that she struck a deal with Kaelis so he'll help her find more information, and it was not mentioned after that at all….and all of a sudden, after a small chit-chat she decided Alora is her best buddy, and she should disclose such dangerous information about her? It doesn't add up at all.
The problem with Kaelis's character is that he actually didn't manage to do anything for her—he supposedly offered her protection, but the only protection was the false security of his name and nothing else. He is smart, and he should've foreseen that his enemies will dig all the information about Clara so they can harm her, and he did nothing to prevent it. Not to mention, he saw what Eza wanted to do to Clara and just watched.
The love dynamic felt forced and awkward because, as I said, they didn't bond significantly in any way, also Kaelis was absent for a big chunk of the book, only popping here and there for a brief conversation without any substance and disappears again. So, thanks to that, their love game felt like a groundhog day—every time they meet it's like they start from scratch, which made it frustrating. To the point that at the 10 or 15th time you no longer care.
Furthermore, Clara treated Kaelis like a one-time shag after being in prison for so long while he was seeking something more from her, and that made the imbalance in their relationship too much to be enjoyable.

Arcana Academy follows Clara Graysword - a prisoner who once roamed freely using illegal magic - who is now given a lucky escape to join the Arcana Academy and be betrothed to the enigmatic headmaster, Prince Kaelis, but for a hefty price. This book is part of a series which is unfinished.

The characters within this book were very intricate and it’s clear, once you’ve managed to get through to the end, that they all come with their own mysteries which were deceptively hidden throughout the book. Yet, there are still so many characters which remain a mystery to me and who, I hope, will play an important role in the upcoming series.

The romance throughout characters within the book are palpable but still laced with deceit, with worry, with deception. You do not know who to trust throughout the book and I found that to be very exhilarating as it made the more intimate scenes have an even more dangerous flare.

The magic system throughout is easily one of my favourites as it focuses around the use of tarot as weapons and the different Minor/Major aspects of the deck. You do get to learn a lot about a variety of different cards throughout and this was very interesting to me as I have an affinity towards tarot cards.

The writing style of the book was distinctly similar to other books of Kova’s I have read however this one seemed to take a slower pace than others I am used to and is a lot longer. Despite this, it didn’t feel like the book was giving me too much or too little.

Overall, this book would be great for those who like a fantastical world with a complex magic system, deceit and deception, heists and slow-burn romance.

Thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for allowing me to read this in exchange for a review.

thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the e-arc!!

it's no secret that i have read (most of) Elise Kova's books in the past and i have loved every single one of them. when she announced this new book i added it to the tbr so fast and the hype was real!! if i had to describe this book, it would be Harry Potter on steroids (minus the problematic things behind it) with so much romance and tension and politics!!

on a grander scale, the story is simple. Clara wants to get revenge for her mother' death, and was locked up in a horrifying prison only to be broken out by the second prince Kaelis to be part of his master plan to change the world. literally. i loved the magic system of using tarot cards for spells and the way magic use is regulated in the world through Arcana Academy and the trials and tribulations for initiates and students alike. the plot thickens in ways i don't expect (the politics!!) and the way the Majors are revealed and the story behind their cards is so cool. i was on the edge of seat through the last 200 pages or so.

yes i gotta talk about Clara and Kaelis because the romance in this has me absolutely feral. i have not enjoyed a good romantasy in so long and this really scratched the itch. i loved the tension throughout and the way this actually starts as enemies. yes they were enemies, like in a 'i want to kill you but this is mutually beneficial so i won't (yet)' kind of way. yes it is a bit predictable but i love the way their chemistry grows and Kaelis actually softens around her. and she wins over both him and his cat!!

alas it is very much a doomed romance (for now) as they have (spoilers!!) ended up on opposite sides of the fight again!!

" hate you. love you. but i can't be nothing to you. "

" there is no world in which you do not consume my very being. "

i also gotta say i love the found family in this, particularly with Luren, Alor and Silas, all three of which actually do not overlap with each other. Luren and Clara understand each other in their grief, and the way they stand up for each other. Clara giving her the House Cups coin was such a powerful scene, especially after what happened with Kel. Alor is her reluctant roommate turned ally.... need i say more.

Silas had me bawling. he was on the wrong side of this fight and he knows it yet he helps her once he got to know her. his end devastated me very profoundly i will not recover from this.

that final reveal about Arina though...... WHAT. i need to know. i need book 2 omg this was so good guys!!