Arcana Academy

By: Elise Kova

Narrated by: Anna Burnett

“Magical from nail-biting beginning to shocking end!”—Danielle L. Jensen, #1 New York Times bestselling author of A Fate Inked in Blood

A woman who wields magical tarot cards lands herself in a false engagement with the headmaster of a mysterious academy in this first installment of an enthralling fantasy romance series from the bestselling author of A Deal with the Elf King.

Clara Graysword has survived the underworld of Eclipse City through thievery, luck, and a whole lot of illegal magic. After a job gone awry, Clara is sentenced to a lifetime in prison for inking tarot cards—a rare power reserved for practitioners at the elite Arcana Academy.

Just when it seems her luck has run dry, the academy’s enigmatic headmaster, Prince Kaelis, offers her an escape—for a price. Kaelis believes that Clara is the perfect tool to help him steal a tarot card from the king and use it to re-create an all-powerful card long lost to time.

In order to conceal her identity and keep her close, Kaelis brings Clara to Arcana Academy, introducing her as the newest first-year student and his bride-to-be.

Thrust into a world of arcane magic and royal intrigue, where one misstep will send her back to prison or worse, Clara finds that the prince she swore to hate may not be what he seems. But can she risk giving him power over the world—and her heart? Or will she take it for herself?

Book One of The Arcana Academy Series

Critic reviews

“A mysterious academy, uncertain alliances, and a unique spin on tarot make the perfect backdrop for a sexy romance—Arcana Academy is magical from nail-biting beginning to shocking end!”—Danielle L. Jensen, New York Times bestselling author of A Fate Inked in Blood

“Elise Kova is the queen when it comes to fantasy! Arcana Academy has a brilliant storyline, a unique and refreshing magic system, and a heart-stopping romance!”—Laura Thalassa, USA Today bestselling author of the Four Horsemen series

“Elise Kova’s Arcana Academy is pure magic—dark, dazzling, and utterly addictive. With a lushly built world based on the unique magic tarot system, a morally gray love interest, and a fierce heroine you can’t help but root for, this book hits every note fantasy romance readers crave. Think dark academia, forbidden magic, and slow-burn tension that leaves you breathless. I devoured it and immediately wanted more.”—USA Today bestselling author G. K. DeRosa

“Betrayal and hidden agendas abound in Kova’s (A Dawn with the Wolf Knight) latest, keeping fans of do-or-die magical competitions turning the pages. . . . Perfect for those who like Jennifer L. Armentrout and Rachel Gillig.”—Library Journal, starred review

“Kova’s characters are well-shaded and her tarot-based magic system feels fresh and exciting. . . . Fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sarah J. Maas are sure to be pleased.”—Publishers Weekly

Such a cool concept

This was such a cool and unique story! Such an amazing concept and to see if flesh out like THIS?!? WOW AMAZING can’t wait for the next book 🥹

So fresh and so fabulous!!!

What a fabulous story! I am totally invested in this book and can’t wait for the next installment!

Excellent Narration

I really liked how the story had twists and turns + the narrator did such a good job getting the tone of the characters to match the tension that was felt throughout the story. Can’t wait for book 2.

Wow

I saw a shocking ending coming because we know there will be another book. But man it still had me gasping out loud! I’m kinda mad I finished this so quickly, because who knows when book two comes out! But I’m so glad I read this. This audiobook had me SAT for like 3 hours while doing laundry! I loved this!!! Definitely recommending it to my friends!

Mysterious, magical and different

I enjoyed the book immensely and can’t wait for the next book to be released!