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Society of Magical Botanists #1
Evergreen Academy
Welcome to Evergreen Academy, the secret college for Magical Botanists.
I’d always sensed something peculiar about the reclusive Evergreen Academy, tucked deep in the woods of my hometown. But I never could have imagined it was a college for magical botanists–and that I am one of them.
An invitation to the academy opens up a whole new world of wonder, yet my plant affinity powers remain elusive, and my scientific training is far behind that of my peers.
When I’m assigned a tutor, Callan Rhodes, a powerful descendant of the academy’s founders, I’m baffled by his willingness to help me.
Despite my challenges, I’m enchanted by the academy’s glass schoolhouse, its grounds which are overflowing with plants that defy the climate, and the quirky festivals held each equinox and solstice.
But disaster looms as the verdant shield that protects the academy from the prying eyes of nonmagical people begins to falter. Can Callan and the other founder’s descendants sustain the magic on their own, or will the clock finally start to tick on figuring out my powers?
Elements you'll find in this
Magical academyPlant magicSmall town settingCozy fantasyLight academiaScience-based magic systemSlow burn romance (no spice)First person POVAn enchanting worldAnd so much more
I’d always sensed something peculiar about the reclusive Evergreen Academy, tucked deep in the woods of my hometown. But I never could have imagined it was a college for magical botanists–and that I am one of them.
An invitation to the academy opens up a whole new world of wonder, yet my plant affinity powers remain elusive, and my scientific training is far behind that of my peers.
When I’m assigned a tutor, Callan Rhodes, a powerful descendant of the academy’s founders, I’m baffled by his willingness to help me.
Despite my challenges, I’m enchanted by the academy’s glass schoolhouse, its grounds which are overflowing with plants that defy the climate, and the quirky festivals held each equinox and solstice.
But disaster looms as the verdant shield that protects the academy from the prying eyes of nonmagical people begins to falter. Can Callan and the other founder’s descendants sustain the magic on their own, or will the clock finally start to tick on figuring out my powers?
Elements you'll find in this
Magical academyPlant magicSmall town settingCozy fantasyLight academiaScience-based magic systemSlow burn romance (no spice)First person POVAn enchanting worldAnd so much more
396 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 25, 2024
324 people are currently reading
8714 people want to read
About the author
Heather Schneider
7 books174 followersHeather Schneider enjoys writing cozy novels with a light romance and mystery angle, often inspired by some of her favorite places.
Heather lives in Las Vegas with her husband and their Chiweenie, Toby.
When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, listening to podcasts, traveling, or spending time with family.
Heather lives in Las Vegas with her husband and their Chiweenie, Toby.
When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, listening to podcasts, traveling, or spending time with family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 384 reviews
May 28, 2025
”Haven’t you heard that the rarest blooms are the most interesting?”
★★★★ 4.5 Stars
🌿 Okay, honestly I just discovered this book on KU and decided it sounded cute for springtime - but I seriously had the best time. I fully plan on buying a physical copy!
Vibes: Zodiac Academy (without the bullying and spice) equivalent of powers and different groups, Harry Potter reminiscent of enchanting school grounds, The Honey Witch inspired with the amount of botanical knowledge and wording dispersed
We Get:
🌿 SO much botany talk/knowledge
🌱 An elite enchanting botany college that’s a greenhouse castle with 9 (?) different affinity types for students to be proficient in (ie. florals, ferns, aquatics, trees)
🍃 A dark-haired tattooed man who isn’t an asshole?
🪷 Slow burn romance (closed door)
🌿 Peak plant descriptions
🌱 Cozy, low-stakes fantasy
🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃
Honestly, I don’t know if it’s because I have been in a deep slump for literal months now, but I feel like this book reawakened my love for reading. It was almost 400 pages, and your girl managed to read it in less than a day?
————————————————————————
We follow Briar, a local resident in a small town in Weed, California. She was raised by her aunt who is the owner of a small, well-loved bakery, and Briar works there on her time off from school. As she recently graduated high school, she now attends a local community college, SCC. When taking a mandatory biology prerequisite course (despite her desire to major in art), she tells her professor she sees cells moving within a botanical sample under a microscope. The professor pulls her aside after class, telling her about the mysterious Evergreen Academy due to her ability to see things others cannot under the microscope. When touring Evergreen Academy with the professor, she learns that it is a college for magical botanists that is kept secret from the rest of the world, and each student attending has a natural affinity for at least one plant type (such as trees, mosses, defensive plants). The students use magical properties to enhance the plants to create serums, healing potions, etc depending on their skills. Briar initially does not test positive for any affinity, but eventually finds herself discovering what her affinities are. The question is who is Briar really, and why does she have the powers she has?
This was such a fun, cozy read and the characters were fantastic. I absolutely loved the premise of this book (and can’t wait for the next one that comes out this Friday!). I adored Callan so much - a hot MMC who is a plant nerd? I’m in. I will say I found Briar’s family history…odd? It was jarring to hear who she might be related to and took me out of the story a bit, but I’m curious to see where that goes.
If you want a lighthearted cozy fantasy for springtime heavy on botany, this is for you!
🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃
★★★★ 4.5 Stars
🌿 Okay, honestly I just discovered this book on KU and decided it sounded cute for springtime - but I seriously had the best time. I fully plan on buying a physical copy!
Vibes: Zodiac Academy (without the bullying and spice) equivalent of powers and different groups, Harry Potter reminiscent of enchanting school grounds, The Honey Witch inspired with the amount of botanical knowledge and wording dispersed
We Get:
🌿 SO much botany talk/knowledge
🌱 An elite enchanting botany college that’s a greenhouse castle with 9 (?) different affinity types for students to be proficient in (ie. florals, ferns, aquatics, trees)
🍃 A dark-haired tattooed man who isn’t an asshole?
🪷 Slow burn romance (closed door)
🌿 Peak plant descriptions
🌱 Cozy, low-stakes fantasy
🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃
Honestly, I don’t know if it’s because I have been in a deep slump for literal months now, but I feel like this book reawakened my love for reading. It was almost 400 pages, and your girl managed to read it in less than a day?
————————————————————————
We follow Briar, a local resident in a small town in Weed, California. She was raised by her aunt who is the owner of a small, well-loved bakery, and Briar works there on her time off from school. As she recently graduated high school, she now attends a local community college, SCC. When taking a mandatory biology prerequisite course (despite her desire to major in art), she tells her professor she sees cells moving within a botanical sample under a microscope. The professor pulls her aside after class, telling her about the mysterious Evergreen Academy due to her ability to see things others cannot under the microscope. When touring Evergreen Academy with the professor, she learns that it is a college for magical botanists that is kept secret from the rest of the world, and each student attending has a natural affinity for at least one plant type (such as trees, mosses, defensive plants). The students use magical properties to enhance the plants to create serums, healing potions, etc depending on their skills. Briar initially does not test positive for any affinity, but eventually finds herself discovering what her affinities are. The question is who is Briar really, and why does she have the powers she has?
This was such a fun, cozy read and the characters were fantastic. I absolutely loved the premise of this book (and can’t wait for the next one that comes out this Friday!). I adored Callan so much - a hot MMC who is a plant nerd? I’m in. I will say I found Briar’s family history…odd? It was jarring to hear who she might be related to and took me out of the story a bit, but I’m curious to see where that goes.
If you want a lighthearted cozy fantasy for springtime heavy on botany, this is for you!
🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃🪷🌱🌿🍃
December 26, 2024
Evergreen Academy felt like traveling back into a nostalgic, magical world - following Professor Sprout's Herbology class at Hogwarts 🌱🌻✨. The book gave me a deep sense of safety & belonging as I found myself fully immersed in its cosy, botanical atmosphere, with each element contributing to an overwhelming feeling of warmth & wonder.
The blend of science & magic, especially the use of Latin terms & technical plant descriptions, initially worried me - that it might turn out too complicated. To my surprise though, it was so smoothly executed that it added a refreshing twist, turning into an effortless blend of magic & plant science.
The pacing was perfect, balancing Briar’s self-discovery journey & the slow-burn "romance" between her & Callan. Unlike many romance stories I’ve read lately, where the relationship feels rushed, the anticipation in this one was built slowly, making their connection feel more authentic & satisfying 🤍.
The looming disaster of the magical shield malfunctioning created a subtle tension from the start. The academy's casual dismissal concerning these issues only increased the suspense, keeping me hooked throughout the story.
Briar’s struggle with her powers resonated deeply with me. Her journey of self-discovery, whilst exploring her family heritage, felt raw & authentic. Watching her confidence grow as she gets to know herself better was one of the most rewarding parts of the story.
Callan Rhodes starts off as the classic “bad boy” — arrogant & standoffish. But as the story moves along, he is revealed to be a much more complex & relatable character - his sincerity & passion turning him into one of the more compelling characters.
In short, Evergreen Academy strikes the perfect balance between cosy & intense fantasy. The light academic aesthetic, with its close-knit community & sense of belonging gave me a sense of warmth, while the tension surrounding the shield kept simmering in the background. It’s the kind of story that makes you feel like magic will always guide you home. So, when can I enrol, Professor East? 🤔🤪👩🎓
The blend of science & magic, especially the use of Latin terms & technical plant descriptions, initially worried me - that it might turn out too complicated. To my surprise though, it was so smoothly executed that it added a refreshing twist, turning into an effortless blend of magic & plant science.
The pacing was perfect, balancing Briar’s self-discovery journey & the slow-burn "romance" between her & Callan. Unlike many romance stories I’ve read lately, where the relationship feels rushed, the anticipation in this one was built slowly, making their connection feel more authentic & satisfying 🤍.
The looming disaster of the magical shield malfunctioning created a subtle tension from the start. The academy's casual dismissal concerning these issues only increased the suspense, keeping me hooked throughout the story.
Briar’s struggle with her powers resonated deeply with me. Her journey of self-discovery, whilst exploring her family heritage, felt raw & authentic. Watching her confidence grow as she gets to know herself better was one of the most rewarding parts of the story.
Callan Rhodes starts off as the classic “bad boy” — arrogant & standoffish. But as the story moves along, he is revealed to be a much more complex & relatable character - his sincerity & passion turning him into one of the more compelling characters.
In short, Evergreen Academy strikes the perfect balance between cosy & intense fantasy. The light academic aesthetic, with its close-knit community & sense of belonging gave me a sense of warmth, while the tension surrounding the shield kept simmering in the background. It’s the kind of story that makes you feel like magic will always guide you home. So, when can I enrol, Professor East? 🤔🤪👩🎓
September 25, 2024
This book was absolutely fantastic. I have been in a reading slump and it immediately pulled me out. I could not put it down. I am in fact so sad that I do not have book two in my possession.
The scenes were set beautifully and I feel like I know exactly what Evergreen Academy looks like. I really enjoyed all of the characters and have been coming up with wild theories about what is going on.
I'm so excited to continue with these characters. As a side note, if I got invited to a magical Academy and they told me I had to take math classes I would really be weighing my options.
The scenes were set beautifully and I feel like I know exactly what Evergreen Academy looks like. I really enjoyed all of the characters and have been coming up with wild theories about what is going on.
I'm so excited to continue with these characters. As a side note, if I got invited to a magical Academy and they told me I had to take math classes I would really be weighing my options.
December 22, 2025
This was delightful! I felt like I was at Hogwarts but for Herbology with magical botanists only instead. It was very well developed and it laid out the sequel perfectly. It’s cozy, light academia with a magical twist. I definitely look forward to the next one!
Content: Loss of loved ones (past), romance (no kissing or anything else), injuries (over all very mild)
Content: Loss of loved ones (past), romance (no kissing or anything else), injuries (over all very mild)
September 16, 2025
3.5⭐️- Was actually yearning a bit for the romance and um… not much happened there. But what can you do! Magical botanists, light academia, gorgeous greenhouses, and plant magic. Would highly recommend for younger / teen audience.
December 19, 2025
Big Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the Publisher for the advanced copy! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
'Evergreen Academy' is the first book in the 'Society of Magic Botanists' series by Heather Schneider, and it follows Briar, an aspiring art school student, as she learns that she is a magical botanist and enrolls in the prestigious Evergreen Academy.
First of all, I enjoyed how whimsical and magical this book was. The plant magic was interesting, though only touched superficially, and everything about it was beautifully crafted and felt straight out of a fairytale.
The characters were also interesting and endearing, especially Briar, who was enjoyable to follow and easy to like.
The plot was entertaining as well; however, it felt like the first part of the story and not a cohesive first book. The mystery was barely touched upon, the romance hadn't even bloomed by the time the last chapter rolled in, and there were many loose ends about the world built.
Finally, the writing was beautiful, the book cozy and cute, and the audiobook was nicely narrated, with the narrator providing it with many voice variations for each character, and its production was enjoyable too.
'Evergreen Academy' is the first book in the 'Society of Magic Botanists' series by Heather Schneider, and it follows Briar, an aspiring art school student, as she learns that she is a magical botanist and enrolls in the prestigious Evergreen Academy.
First of all, I enjoyed how whimsical and magical this book was. The plant magic was interesting, though only touched superficially, and everything about it was beautifully crafted and felt straight out of a fairytale.
The characters were also interesting and endearing, especially Briar, who was enjoyable to follow and easy to like.
The plot was entertaining as well; however, it felt like the first part of the story and not a cohesive first book. The mystery was barely touched upon, the romance hadn't even bloomed by the time the last chapter rolled in, and there were many loose ends about the world built.
Finally, the writing was beautiful, the book cozy and cute, and the audiobook was nicely narrated, with the narrator providing it with many voice variations for each character, and its production was enjoyable too.
October 20, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. My rating is 2.75 but I rounded up to 3.
Evergreen academy follows Briar Whelan who is has just started her first semester at SCC where she wants to work towards an art degree. While at SCC she soon discovers that she is a magical botanist and is immediately enrolled in the mysterious Evergreen Academy.
The story itself is not bad, however, I found myself consistently wanting more. While I was intrigued by the magical botanist storyline I felt the pace of the book to be overall too slow. We spent too much time with Briar not knowing what her affinity was and barely anytime honing her skills before they were taken away again.
We also would get very short paragraphs with the characters doing one thing (like having a conversation) for it to end abruptly and it going into a completely new scene.
Something odd is happening at the school but the stakes felt way too low. And while the characters would mention feeling off or being worried their actions did not show any urgency.
We also see a lot of telling but not showing, briar ALWAYS has a feeling in the pit of her stomach or can’t shake off the feeling something is off but it never felt valid.
We also were introduced to some characters like Maci and Alex who just completely disappeared (and I have a feeling Alex is important) but I wish we had gotten more from them or they just hadn’t existed in the first place.
I also had a hard time with the nickname Callan gave Briar. Everytime he called her “local” I couldn’t help but say “where the hell have you been loca?!” Every single time this nickname was mentioned I just couldn’t help but laugh.
At the end of the day the story was interesting, however, the execution was lacking and the ending was so unsatisfactory and abrupt. I literally screamed at my screen saying “this is it?!” Not because there’s a huge cliffhanger but because it felt like an incomplete sentence.
Evergreen academy follows Briar Whelan who is has just started her first semester at SCC where she wants to work towards an art degree. While at SCC she soon discovers that she is a magical botanist and is immediately enrolled in the mysterious Evergreen Academy.
The story itself is not bad, however, I found myself consistently wanting more. While I was intrigued by the magical botanist storyline I felt the pace of the book to be overall too slow. We spent too much time with Briar not knowing what her affinity was and barely anytime honing her skills before they were taken away again.
We also would get very short paragraphs with the characters doing one thing (like having a conversation) for it to end abruptly and it going into a completely new scene.
Something odd is happening at the school but the stakes felt way too low. And while the characters would mention feeling off or being worried their actions did not show any urgency.
We also see a lot of telling but not showing, briar ALWAYS has a feeling in the pit of her stomach or can’t shake off the feeling something is off but it never felt valid.
We also were introduced to some characters like Maci and Alex who just completely disappeared (and I have a feeling Alex is important) but I wish we had gotten more from them or they just hadn’t existed in the first place.
I also had a hard time with the nickname Callan gave Briar. Everytime he called her “local” I couldn’t help but say “where the hell have you been loca?!” Every single time this nickname was mentioned I just couldn’t help but laugh.
At the end of the day the story was interesting, however, the execution was lacking and the ending was so unsatisfactory and abrupt. I literally screamed at my screen saying “this is it?!” Not because there’s a huge cliffhanger but because it felt like an incomplete sentence.
January 3, 2026
An interesting mix of modern botanical science and botanical magic. The romance is slow boil, and the plot focuses on the challenges that the protagonist faces and the things she learns. So if you are looking for a hot romance, this is not it. Nonetheless, it is an interesting story with the combination of modern science and magic, of two worlds which are next to one another but with the magical world hidden.
October 23, 2024
|| A big thank you to Heather Schneider for sending me this e-ARC in exchange of an honest review! ||
I loved it. It's cosy fantasy, with botanical magic school with studies and classes, with some tiny disturbances but no big problems to follow, and it feels just so good to read!
I really loved the idea of Evergreen Academy (and I wanna go there) and its diverse classes of botanical magic, it was really well developed and original - really had good researches on plants and flowers and it was amazing to read. I loved seeing Briar following her different classes, struggling to keep up and slowly getting it once she gets her affinity. And as it's cosy fantasy, there's no big issues and high risk problems going on, it feels good to not have to stress about something bad that should be happening soon because we reached x% of the book.
I loved Briar and her character, but I mostly enjoyed seeing all her relationships with other characters. There's friendship that's all about support with no petty issues, a start of a slow burn romance with honesty and no ambiguity between them, and outside of what she must not say for the sake of EA/magic, there's no big secrets she's keeping that could destroy everything. And I can't stress this enough but it feels so good to have none of that relationship issues in a upper YA / NA book!!
I loved it. It's cosy fantasy, with botanical magic school with studies and classes, with some tiny disturbances but no big problems to follow, and it feels just so good to read!
I really loved the idea of Evergreen Academy (and I wanna go there) and its diverse classes of botanical magic, it was really well developed and original - really had good researches on plants and flowers and it was amazing to read. I loved seeing Briar following her different classes, struggling to keep up and slowly getting it once she gets her affinity. And as it's cosy fantasy, there's no big issues and high risk problems going on, it feels good to not have to stress about something bad that should be happening soon because we reached x% of the book.
I loved Briar and her character, but I mostly enjoyed seeing all her relationships with other characters. There's friendship that's all about support with no petty issues, a start of a slow burn romance with honesty and no ambiguity between them, and outside of what she must not say for the sake of EA/magic, there's no big secrets she's keeping that could destroy everything. And I can't stress this enough but it feels so good to have none of that relationship issues in a upper YA / NA book!!
December 21, 2025
Recommend-O-Meter: Are you really gonna say no to a book with magical botanists?
I came in for a fun time and I GOT a fun time so I really can’t complain. Throughout the story, we follow Briar, a college student who willingly signs up for a second college to study at concurrently with her existing work. Which sounds insane, but then again she did get invited to a magical academy for plant lovers so I mean. I get it.
Briar herself is—and I say this with all the love in me—such a Mary Sue it was honestly kind of funny. It felt very much like the Chosen One trope was working on overdrive here, especially with the [redacted] reveal at the end. But again: it was FUN! So I don’t really mind too much, even if she and her tattooed, super talented love interest with family issues were not just a tiny bit cringe.
As a lover of fun magic systems, I really liked seeing the differing styles of plant magic in here. Which is good, because a good chunk of the plot focuses on them. There’s definitely an undercurrent of mystery and deeper machinations, but as the first book in a series, this particular title was more focused on setting up the world and its main character. Kinda slow, but it was nice to just chill while reading for a change. Definitely still enough to make me want to read the next book!
Audio Assessment: It was smooth listening AND I didn’t wince while listening to the narrator speak a bunch of Latin phrases, which I count as an absolute win.
[I received an ALC of this book from the publisher on NetGalley. This does not in any way affect the contents of my review.]
I came in for a fun time and I GOT a fun time so I really can’t complain. Throughout the story, we follow Briar, a college student who willingly signs up for a second college to study at concurrently with her existing work. Which sounds insane, but then again she did get invited to a magical academy for plant lovers so I mean. I get it.
Briar herself is—and I say this with all the love in me—such a Mary Sue it was honestly kind of funny. It felt very much like the Chosen One trope was working on overdrive here, especially with the [redacted] reveal at the end. But again: it was FUN! So I don’t really mind too much, even if she and her tattooed, super talented love interest with family issues were not just a tiny bit cringe.
As a lover of fun magic systems, I really liked seeing the differing styles of plant magic in here. Which is good, because a good chunk of the plot focuses on them. There’s definitely an undercurrent of mystery and deeper machinations, but as the first book in a series, this particular title was more focused on setting up the world and its main character. Kinda slow, but it was nice to just chill while reading for a change. Definitely still enough to make me want to read the next book!
Audio Assessment: It was smooth listening AND I didn’t wince while listening to the narrator speak a bunch of Latin phrases, which I count as an absolute win.
[I received an ALC of this book from the publisher on NetGalley. This does not in any way affect the contents of my review.]
May 20, 2025
I had a good time with this one! Warm and academic with just a hint of mystery, this was the perfect way to break up the more intense fantasy I usually read.
The pace meandered pleasantly, neither stagnant nor rushed, the delicious atmosphere and botany magic intrigued me, and the characters were genuine and wholesome.
As a 20-something reader, I appreciated that the story focused on college academia rather than high school, and it was satisfyingly low drama. I don't love it when stories in school settings use contrived drama to beef up their plots, so I was happy Heather focused more on character relationships, the school aspects, and the fascinating magic.
Characters felt real and normal, in a comforting and endearing way. And although it took me a while to feel connected to the FMC, Briar really won me over with her hard-work, humility and, kindness. I was prepared to cringe a little at the love interest when he was introduced as a typical "dark and brooding hot boi," but again, I was pleasantly surprised. Callen turned out to be well-rounded and interesting, and I'm really hoping to see much more of him in the sequel (perhaps even a POV? 👀)
The magic is a carefully crafted blend of science and whimsy, with a clear nod to the author's background in botany (if I'm remembering correctly). I would love to have an affinity for florals or herbs! And honestly, the tree walking sounded so fun too!
Give this cozy botanical academia a try if you enjoy any of the things I've mentioned!
The pace meandered pleasantly, neither stagnant nor rushed, the delicious atmosphere and botany magic intrigued me, and the characters were genuine and wholesome.
As a 20-something reader, I appreciated that the story focused on college academia rather than high school, and it was satisfyingly low drama. I don't love it when stories in school settings use contrived drama to beef up their plots, so I was happy Heather focused more on character relationships, the school aspects, and the fascinating magic.
Characters felt real and normal, in a comforting and endearing way. And although it took me a while to feel connected to the FMC, Briar really won me over with her hard-work, humility and, kindness. I was prepared to cringe a little at the love interest when he was introduced as a typical "dark and brooding hot boi," but again, I was pleasantly surprised. Callen turned out to be well-rounded and interesting, and I'm really hoping to see much more of him in the sequel (perhaps even a POV? 👀)
The magic is a carefully crafted blend of science and whimsy, with a clear nod to the author's background in botany (if I'm remembering correctly). I would love to have an affinity for florals or herbs! And honestly, the tree walking sounded so fun too!
Give this cozy botanical academia a try if you enjoy any of the things I've mentioned!
January 17, 2025
Read if you like: cozy and whimsical fantasy, cottagecore, science-based magic, light academia, magic academy, very slow-burn romance, and botany.
I was completely charmed by this lovely book! The descriptions were beautiful and the atmosphere was so well done. I felt like I was there at the magical academy, and it was such a nice escape for a while. The story felt refreshing and uplifting. It was nice to read something with undertones of danger but wasn't very dark and heavy. I'm also impressed with the magic system and thought it was brilliant. I've never read a book with a plant-based magic system before and it reminded me of the beauty of nature. The visuals! Ugh. Now I want to go to a garden party in a pretty dress with flowers in my hair. The FMC, Briar, discovers a lot about herself throughout the book. I like how she is humble and hardworking. Also, I love that the subplot romance seems to be developing very slowly because it just makes the tension and everything so much better. Callan, the MMC, is definitely an intriguing character, too. I'm excited to learn more about him in the next book. And the friendships!! We looooove good representation of female friendships. I'm usually not even a fan of contemporary fantasy, but I was totally sucked into this story. I CANNOT WAIT to see how it continues in book two!
Spice: None!
TW: references to death of loved one
I was completely charmed by this lovely book! The descriptions were beautiful and the atmosphere was so well done. I felt like I was there at the magical academy, and it was such a nice escape for a while. The story felt refreshing and uplifting. It was nice to read something with undertones of danger but wasn't very dark and heavy. I'm also impressed with the magic system and thought it was brilliant. I've never read a book with a plant-based magic system before and it reminded me of the beauty of nature. The visuals! Ugh. Now I want to go to a garden party in a pretty dress with flowers in my hair. The FMC, Briar, discovers a lot about herself throughout the book. I like how she is humble and hardworking. Also, I love that the subplot romance seems to be developing very slowly because it just makes the tension and everything so much better. Callan, the MMC, is definitely an intriguing character, too. I'm excited to learn more about him in the next book. And the friendships!! We looooove good representation of female friendships. I'm usually not even a fan of contemporary fantasy, but I was totally sucked into this story. I CANNOT WAIT to see how it continues in book two!
Spice: None!
TW: references to death of loved one
December 9, 2024
A fun little story about a school for magical plants, and while I did enjoy it somewhat, there were lot of aspects that I wish had been more fleshed out, which held me back from really falling in love with the story. The magic world overall is very vague (Are there other kinds of magic in this universe or is it just plant magic? Why do tree affinities have a sort of air magic when other affinities don’t seem to have any elemental magic?), I wish we would have gotten more scenes inside the classes rather than montage-style descriptions, I would have liked more scenes of the main romantic couple bonding beyond surface-level dialogue, and I couldn’t really discern any outstanding character traits from both the fmc and mmc other than that they were Nice.
This would be a nice read for a teenager or someone who doesn’t normally read fantasy and wants a lighter fantasy to get into the genre, but for someone like me who’s older and reads a lot of fantasy, this fell short for me.
This would be a nice read for a teenager or someone who doesn’t normally read fantasy and wants a lighter fantasy to get into the genre, but for someone like me who’s older and reads a lot of fantasy, this fell short for me.
May 31, 2025
Another delightful cozy modern fantasy series by Heather Schneider. I really enjoyed how she gave us the fun, lighthearted, whimsical, clean romance, nostalgic aspect of middle grade fantasy while writing it for a new adult audience. If you like Harry Potter, plants, or fantasy this book is for you!
May 18, 2025
This was pretty fun. I feel like not a lop happened though. The ending was very weird and didn’t feel like an actual ending as well
January 26, 2026
3.5 stars
October 25, 2024
Note: I received an Advanced Reader Copy in return for an honest review of the book.
Such a cozy read about self discovery and a sweet YA slow burn love story. Loved the plant based magical system and the balance of cozy with fantasy plot still being prominent. Adding this to my list for my daughter to read right after Harry Potter one day.
Such a cozy read about self discovery and a sweet YA slow burn love story. Loved the plant based magical system and the balance of cozy with fantasy plot still being prominent. Adding this to my list for my daughter to read right after Harry Potter one day.
July 13, 2025
I really liked the concept of this book. A university of magical botanists? It sounded awesome, but the story fell flat for me. Nearly all the information we get about the magic system and world comes through conversational exposition. Most everything is explained to Briar, but nothing feels discovered by her. As the reader, this lead to a lack of curiosity on my end. Additionally, I felt like I didn’t get to experience the characters, because most of what I know about Briar or her friends was explained to me, rather than demonstrated. This made the characters feel somehow homogeneous, especially during conversations. In my opinion the stakes were too low with the whole “verdant shield failing” mystery. It didn’t seem to affect Briar directly in any way, and I wasn’t given reasons to strongly desire a different outcome; I just did not feel persuaded to care. Much of the conflict felt this way to me. The fact that big problems could trickle down into specific character defining obstacles and decisions just seemed lost here.
I did like some of the ideas that were explored, like the variety of ways botanists use their powers. For medicine, makeup, and cuisine, but overall I really wanted to like it more. I even started reading the second one, but gave up less than halfway through.
I did like some of the ideas that were explored, like the variety of ways botanists use their powers. For medicine, makeup, and cuisine, but overall I really wanted to like it more. I even started reading the second one, but gave up less than halfway through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 17, 2024
I originally was going to give the book 4 stars but I ended up giving it 3 stars for 2 reasons: the first half of the book was pretty slow and the ending was building up to a great cliffhanger, but it just ended.
For a YA fantasy, this has great plot, I love the characters and learning about their infinities and the writing is very good. This gave me botanical Harry Potter vibes and I loved it! I look forward to reading book 2.
For a YA fantasy, this has great plot, I love the characters and learning about their infinities and the writing is very good. This gave me botanical Harry Potter vibes and I loved it! I look forward to reading book 2.
December 4, 2025
4.25⭐️ Thank you Netgalley for the ALC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely lapped this up - we follow our FMC Briar who is starting college in the small town of Weed (also very cosy vibes - her aunt owns a bakery so big yes please). She is mysteriously headhunted by her biology teacher to complete a research project at the Prestigious (and very secret) Evergreen Academy. It later transpires that this is a college for magical botanists and this opens a whole magical world that was previously unknown.
I loved the school system, the magic system felt so unique and individual and I was so interested in it! I also loved the romance and the political intrigue involved and the ongoing mystery elements! I will definately be continuing the series!
Our narrator Jesse Vilinsky did an absolutely stellar job as well! Her voice was perfect for the new adult vibes and carried across Briar so well and I also loved her voice for our MMC! A fantastic one for audio.
I absolutely lapped this up - we follow our FMC Briar who is starting college in the small town of Weed (also very cosy vibes - her aunt owns a bakery so big yes please). She is mysteriously headhunted by her biology teacher to complete a research project at the Prestigious (and very secret) Evergreen Academy. It later transpires that this is a college for magical botanists and this opens a whole magical world that was previously unknown.
I loved the school system, the magic system felt so unique and individual and I was so interested in it! I also loved the romance and the political intrigue involved and the ongoing mystery elements! I will definately be continuing the series!
Our narrator Jesse Vilinsky did an absolutely stellar job as well! Her voice was perfect for the new adult vibes and carried across Briar so well and I also loved her voice for our MMC! A fantastic one for audio.
January 22, 2026
You know, I like the ideas in this series quite a bit: a school for magical botany that is at risk of being usurped by an almost authoritarian ruling class. The problem, however, is that the protagonist is a massive Mary Sue who experiences ex machina after ex machina to help her save the day. She's perfect, she's gorgeous, she looks like Linda Evangelista (sorry, I couldn't help myself). She manages to achieve great things despite possessing several significant handicaps. Everything goes her way again and again. And worst of all - her personality conveniently changes to match different situations that arise. It's very frustrating to see such good ideas and overall good writing derailed by frankly weak character work and plotting. This series is somewhere in the realm of romantasy, so if you're into that, go for it. But if you're not... proceed with caution.
November 21, 2025
A book about a magical botanical school. A story when the students can have multiply affinities, which mean that they can control flowers/trees/aquatic plants and rots. Also the story is so light, there is very few conflicts. We follow Briar in Evergreen Academy, take her classes and try to integrate in that world. Yes, there is a main interest. But is a very slow burn, we just know that Briar likes Callan. The book focus more in her friendships, her journey to discover her powers and her dream to became an artist.
November 10, 2024
A perfect blend of magic and science. This book was a joy to read. It's relaxing but didn't leave me bored. It reminded me so much of Professor Sprouts Herbology class from Harry Potter. I love the romance between Callan and Briar. It wasn't rushed. It came about naturally. So many times there is insta love with romances. There is no time to actually build a relationship. This author did well on that front. The book itself and the rest of the story are great, too.
May 29, 2025
honestly really enjoyed this one! I loved that it focused on botany and there is a secret academy! My only complaint was it felt like things were mentioned that you would assume would have been discussed/resolved but then never were.
January 5, 2026
4.75/5
Yes, yes, and YES!! This was so magical and whimsical and exactly what I was hoping for based on the cover and description. I loved the style of the writing and all of the characters were super endearing!! Younger me would have gone FERAL for this book if I read it as a young teen. It has everything I was obsessed with as a kid: plant magic (desperately wanted that), birthstones, and a school for magical botanists?! Obsessed. I still love these things and so I felt connected to this book in a really nostalgic way! The audiobook narration was fantastic, I appreciated that everyone had a distinct enough voice that I could tell them apart; Jesse Vilinsky did a wonderful job. I am so so eager to read the next book and cannot wait until it's out in audio format. I have some ideas on who the culprit is for what's causing the issues we see in this book but I will NOT spoil my thoughts just yet... Can't wait to see more from Briar and Callan and what transpires with all the loose threads to be tied off in the following books!
Thank you to RBmedia for sending me this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. Releases December 9th, 2025.
Yes, yes, and YES!! This was so magical and whimsical and exactly what I was hoping for based on the cover and description. I loved the style of the writing and all of the characters were super endearing!! Younger me would have gone FERAL for this book if I read it as a young teen. It has everything I was obsessed with as a kid: plant magic (desperately wanted that), birthstones, and a school for magical botanists?! Obsessed. I still love these things and so I felt connected to this book in a really nostalgic way! The audiobook narration was fantastic, I appreciated that everyone had a distinct enough voice that I could tell them apart; Jesse Vilinsky did a wonderful job. I am so so eager to read the next book and cannot wait until it's out in audio format. I have some ideas on who the culprit is for what's causing the issues we see in this book but I will NOT spoil my thoughts just yet... Can't wait to see more from Briar and Callan and what transpires with all the loose threads to be tied off in the following books!
Thank you to RBmedia for sending me this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts. Releases December 9th, 2025.
March 23, 2025
What a delightful and whimsical read!
Evergreen Academy was the perfect mix of science and magic! This delightful, easy paced, relaxing, and cozy read is an excellent palette cleanser of a book!
The author managed to perfectly build a stunning landscape for the reader with just enough detail to allow Evergreen Academy to bloom in your minds eye!
The different affinities were plentiful, but you never felt lost in the details, and the slow burn, no spice romance leaves so much room for growth in book two as book one builds a foundation on friendship. Usually, relationships develop super rapidly in fantasy books, so I am delighted as the incredibly realistic and natural timeline that the author chose for her characters!
Although you can see where certain elements of the plot are heading as you read, you really feel content simply going along for the ride.
I also loved that the FMC was able to build lasting female friendships without the need for petty conflict, another wonderfully refreshing showing of supportive side and main characters!
I am so glad I was able to read this lovely story, and I am very much looking forward to book 2!
P.s. the way i now DREAM for a tree affinity! ❤️
P.p.s no MC pregnancy tropes
Evergreen Academy was the perfect mix of science and magic! This delightful, easy paced, relaxing, and cozy read is an excellent palette cleanser of a book!
The author managed to perfectly build a stunning landscape for the reader with just enough detail to allow Evergreen Academy to bloom in your minds eye!
The different affinities were plentiful, but you never felt lost in the details, and the slow burn, no spice romance leaves so much room for growth in book two as book one builds a foundation on friendship. Usually, relationships develop super rapidly in fantasy books, so I am delighted as the incredibly realistic and natural timeline that the author chose for her characters!
Although you can see where certain elements of the plot are heading as you read, you really feel content simply going along for the ride.
I also loved that the FMC was able to build lasting female friendships without the need for petty conflict, another wonderfully refreshing showing of supportive side and main characters!
I am so glad I was able to read this lovely story, and I am very much looking forward to book 2!
P.s. the way i now DREAM for a tree affinity! ❤️
P.p.s no MC pregnancy tropes
December 12, 2025
4.5⭐️
This was such a cozy, cute, light-academia read. I truly enjoyed every bit of it. I did an immersive reading for this one, and it was everything. I could picture every little detail so clearly that it all felt real—and yes, I absolutely went to talk to my plants right after. 🤭🌿
I listened to the audiobook ALC as well, and the narrator did such a wonderful job. The performance was smooth, engaging, and thankfully light on breathing sounds (a huge win).
This story blends magic and science in the dreamiest way—one of my favorite combinations. The setting was enchanting and warm, like stepping into another world for a little while and then gently returning home. You’ll see exactly what I mean once you read it.
The slow-burn romance… oh, it reminded me of my younger years. Sweet, soft, and quietly heart-fluttering. Callum was mysterious in the loveliest way, and some of the things he said were genuinely swoon-worthy. Like this line right here 🤭😍🥰:
“Haven’t you heard that the rarest blooms are the most interesting?”
Overall, I definitely recommend this if you’re looking for something sweet, light, and wonderfully cozy. Perfect for a gentle escape. ✨📚🪴
Oh! I also took the quiz on Heather’s website and my affinity is Trees! 🌳💚
ALC provided by Netgalley. Courtesy of Tantor Media | Tantor Audio
This was such a cozy, cute, light-academia read. I truly enjoyed every bit of it. I did an immersive reading for this one, and it was everything. I could picture every little detail so clearly that it all felt real—and yes, I absolutely went to talk to my plants right after. 🤭🌿
I listened to the audiobook ALC as well, and the narrator did such a wonderful job. The performance was smooth, engaging, and thankfully light on breathing sounds (a huge win).
This story blends magic and science in the dreamiest way—one of my favorite combinations. The setting was enchanting and warm, like stepping into another world for a little while and then gently returning home. You’ll see exactly what I mean once you read it.
The slow-burn romance… oh, it reminded me of my younger years. Sweet, soft, and quietly heart-fluttering. Callum was mysterious in the loveliest way, and some of the things he said were genuinely swoon-worthy. Like this line right here 🤭😍🥰:
“Haven’t you heard that the rarest blooms are the most interesting?”
Overall, I definitely recommend this if you’re looking for something sweet, light, and wonderfully cozy. Perfect for a gentle escape. ✨📚🪴
Oh! I also took the quiz on Heather’s website and my affinity is Trees! 🌳💚
ALC provided by Netgalley. Courtesy of Tantor Media | Tantor Audio
October 23, 2024
Thanks to the author for gifting me this ARC in an exchange for an honest review.
This novel focuses on Briar Wheelan, a teenager who who works part time at her aunt’s bakery and spends her time drawing when she isn’t at school. However, her world is changed when she is made aware that she has a magical affinity with plants and therefore must attended the Evergreen Academy to harness and train her abilities. Will she rise to the occasion, or will she realise the academy holds some strange secrets?
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love anything magic and witchy in literature, and this book has all of that and more! I loved the focus on magic and plants (it reminded me of Kalynn Bayron’s ‘This Poison Heart’) with the addition of magical art. The art element seemed very unique and I’m excited to see how this develops further. I noticed a lot of reviewers seemed to compare this to Harry Potter, but apart from the magical school I didn’t personally see the comparison and felt this book stood out on its own!
The characters themselves were also very likeable/intriguing. I liked the protagonist as she was very relatable. She had a chosen one vibe, but was also far from perfect and was shown to struggle a lot. If anything, I preferred her character when she had no magical affinity as I felt she stood out from the stereotypical perfect protagonist, but she was still likeable even after receiving her abilities. Her love interest, Callan, was mysterious, and so were his parents, so I’m curious to learn more about them as the series progresses.
The book ended with many answered questions which was exciting and equally frustrating. Who is trying to hurt the academy? Will B and Callan get together? Where has B’s powers come from and does her aunt know about them? We will have to wait for the next book to find out!
My only gripe with this book is that I felt it ended rather abruptly. There was a big build up with the issues at the academy but the novel then wrapped up before the climax which I didn’t expect and left me feeling dissatisfied. I’m also hoping the author will add some queer characters in book two as, from how it seemed, all of the characters were heterosexual so I’d love to see some kind of same-sex romance develop as the series progresses.
Overall, a great fantasy book that anyone who loves magic, nature, or art will enjoy! I absolutely loved it.
This novel focuses on Briar Wheelan, a teenager who who works part time at her aunt’s bakery and spends her time drawing when she isn’t at school. However, her world is changed when she is made aware that she has a magical affinity with plants and therefore must attended the Evergreen Academy to harness and train her abilities. Will she rise to the occasion, or will she realise the academy holds some strange secrets?
Anyone who knows me knows how much I love anything magic and witchy in literature, and this book has all of that and more! I loved the focus on magic and plants (it reminded me of Kalynn Bayron’s ‘This Poison Heart’) with the addition of magical art. The art element seemed very unique and I’m excited to see how this develops further. I noticed a lot of reviewers seemed to compare this to Harry Potter, but apart from the magical school I didn’t personally see the comparison and felt this book stood out on its own!
The characters themselves were also very likeable/intriguing. I liked the protagonist as she was very relatable. She had a chosen one vibe, but was also far from perfect and was shown to struggle a lot. If anything, I preferred her character when she had no magical affinity as I felt she stood out from the stereotypical perfect protagonist, but she was still likeable even after receiving her abilities. Her love interest, Callan, was mysterious, and so were his parents, so I’m curious to learn more about them as the series progresses.
The book ended with many answered questions which was exciting and equally frustrating. Who is trying to hurt the academy? Will B and Callan get together? Where has B’s powers come from and does her aunt know about them? We will have to wait for the next book to find out!
My only gripe with this book is that I felt it ended rather abruptly. There was a big build up with the issues at the academy but the novel then wrapped up before the climax which I didn’t expect and left me feeling dissatisfied. I’m also hoping the author will add some queer characters in book two as, from how it seemed, all of the characters were heterosexual so I’d love to see some kind of same-sex romance develop as the series progresses.
Overall, a great fantasy book that anyone who loves magic, nature, or art will enjoy! I absolutely loved it.
October 11, 2024
This ARC was hard for me to rate because I really loved it, but I was left wanting more from the story. There was quite a bit of worldbuilding in this book, which was interesting and kept me engaged, but I expected a little bit more of a story arc than I feel like this book had, although it seems to have set it up nicely for the next book. The author already mentioned book 2, and I will definitely want to read it! Evergreen Academy gives a bit of a Hogwarts vibe. It’s a cozy fantasy with a magical realism slant, written in a first person POV. Sometimes I find first person POV annoying, but I barely noticed it here. The descriptions of the school, its activities, and the students are all lovely and charming.
Briar is attending the local college in her hometown of Weed, California, majoring in art, when one of her professors invites her to attend the mysterious Evergreen Academy. Evergreen Academy turns out to be a school for Magical Botanists. Each student has an affinity for a certain type of plant magic, which is revealed through a quick test in each. When Briar is tested, it seems she has no affinity powers and she questions whether she truly belongs at Evergreen Academy. She meets Callan, a descendant of one of the school founders, who has almost every affinity. He begins to tutor Briar and they become closer as the year progresses. There is a verdant shield hiding the school from anyone without magical botanist powers, but the shield begins to fail. Only descendants of the school’s founders can charge the shield, but even they are encountering issues with keeping the shield up. This book covers Briar’s experiences in her first year at Evergreen Academy, so I’m assuming the next book will cover her second year.
*I received a free ARC copy of this book, but all opinions are my own*
Briar is attending the local college in her hometown of Weed, California, majoring in art, when one of her professors invites her to attend the mysterious Evergreen Academy. Evergreen Academy turns out to be a school for Magical Botanists. Each student has an affinity for a certain type of plant magic, which is revealed through a quick test in each. When Briar is tested, it seems she has no affinity powers and she questions whether she truly belongs at Evergreen Academy. She meets Callan, a descendant of one of the school founders, who has almost every affinity. He begins to tutor Briar and they become closer as the year progresses. There is a verdant shield hiding the school from anyone without magical botanist powers, but the shield begins to fail. Only descendants of the school’s founders can charge the shield, but even they are encountering issues with keeping the shield up. This book covers Briar’s experiences in her first year at Evergreen Academy, so I’m assuming the next book will cover her second year.
*I received a free ARC copy of this book, but all opinions are my own*
October 12, 2024
Cozy fantasy, light academia, and a slow burn romance. Evergreen Academy was like a magical hug from nature itself!
Imagine starting your first semester at college and you find out you’re a Magical Botanist. And that mysterious academy in the middle of the woods right outside of your small town? Yeah, that’s THE school for Magical Botanists! And you just enrolled! Talk about double majoring.
This was such a fun read with a diverse cast of lovable characters. Briar was a relatable main character to follow throughout this story. Because I would also be totally anxious about taking algebra AND magical studies within the same day, all while keeping said magic a secret! This story follows a full year at Evergreen Academy. So we get to experience every season, dance, tea party, and even a thrilling game of capture the flag. But mystery and twists hide within the gorgeous grounds of Evergreen Academy. Some things about Briar’s magic just don’t add up, and the world of Magical Botanists may be more cunning than she realized.
I felt totally immersed into the world of Evergreen Academy. The descriptions of the magical school, its giant library, and the never ending gardens on the grounds were so beautiful. Each description felt like a perfect spring day full of greenery and flowers galore. I also loved how the magic system intertwined with real science and biology. It added to the world building and was explained very well. Science was never my strong suit, but I never felt lost or confused while reading this book.
In conclusion, I give this book 4.5 stars!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you so much to the author of this book, Heather Schneider, for gifting me an ARC copy of Evergreen Academy in exchange for an honest review!
Imagine starting your first semester at college and you find out you’re a Magical Botanist. And that mysterious academy in the middle of the woods right outside of your small town? Yeah, that’s THE school for Magical Botanists! And you just enrolled! Talk about double majoring.
This was such a fun read with a diverse cast of lovable characters. Briar was a relatable main character to follow throughout this story. Because I would also be totally anxious about taking algebra AND magical studies within the same day, all while keeping said magic a secret! This story follows a full year at Evergreen Academy. So we get to experience every season, dance, tea party, and even a thrilling game of capture the flag. But mystery and twists hide within the gorgeous grounds of Evergreen Academy. Some things about Briar’s magic just don’t add up, and the world of Magical Botanists may be more cunning than she realized.
I felt totally immersed into the world of Evergreen Academy. The descriptions of the magical school, its giant library, and the never ending gardens on the grounds were so beautiful. Each description felt like a perfect spring day full of greenery and flowers galore. I also loved how the magic system intertwined with real science and biology. It added to the world building and was explained very well. Science was never my strong suit, but I never felt lost or confused while reading this book.
In conclusion, I give this book 4.5 stars!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thank you so much to the author of this book, Heather Schneider, for gifting me an ARC copy of Evergreen Academy in exchange for an honest review!
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