This is the first book I have read by Elise Kova and if you like to dive into a magical world, then this story is for you!
Clara lives in the harsh Eclipse city and survives day by day by inking tarot cards through illegal magic. When a job goes wrong, she is sentenced to a deadly prison.
Prince Kaelis is the headmaster of Arcana Academy where the most powerful practitioners yield magic through tarot cards. His only goal is to steal a card from the king and create a new world. He needs Clara’s help for that so he introduces her as the new student of the academy and his bride to be.
I have to say that I picked this book because of its cover and its theme with the tarot cards and I loved it! It was such a unique world of magic, intrigue and adventure. The battles between the students were amazing and the Academy was full of secrets.
Clara is street smart, bold and brave. Kaelis is a little closed off and cold but he hides a sensitive self.
The romance aspect of the story was the one thing that didn’t win me over. I could not feel the connection between the characters. It is slow burn and then suddenly bam! I need tension, banter, something that could make you feel the yearning but this book didn’t have it.
Also, in the beginning there are many side characters with personalities not so distinct so you might get confused by who is who.
Arcana Academy might not be my favorite romance story but it definitely won me over with the tarot cards and the magical setting! I will read the second book for sure hoping for a greater love story!
