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Spellcasters Spy Academy #1
A Legacy Witch
Magic and espionage run in my blood.
But my parents don’t want me attending their alma mater, Spellcasters Spy Academy. They think I can’t hack it. Of course, I plan on proving them wrong.
If I can stay alive long enough.
Someone is attacking witches in my year, and I seem to always be nearby when they strike.
I swear I have nothing to do with it. Shoot, I can barely get my magic to cooperate. But convincing some people of my innocence is impossible. Like hot-as-hell Alex Wardwell, who despises me because of one dumb mistake.
So between proving my parents wrong, passing the trials Spellcasters has in store, trying to convince Alex that he has me pegged wrong, and simply staying alive, it looks like I’m going to have a busy year.
Thank the universe I’ve always been up for a challenge.
A Legacy Witch is an upper YA/NA paranormal academy novel with an espionage twist! With an enemies-to-lovers romance, mysterious deaths, and a diverse cast of supernatural creatures, your enrollment at Spellcasters will be unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
Enroll today!
But my parents don’t want me attending their alma mater, Spellcasters Spy Academy. They think I can’t hack it. Of course, I plan on proving them wrong.
If I can stay alive long enough.
Someone is attacking witches in my year, and I seem to always be nearby when they strike.
I swear I have nothing to do with it. Shoot, I can barely get my magic to cooperate. But convincing some people of my innocence is impossible. Like hot-as-hell Alex Wardwell, who despises me because of one dumb mistake.
So between proving my parents wrong, passing the trials Spellcasters has in store, trying to convince Alex that he has me pegged wrong, and simply staying alive, it looks like I’m going to have a busy year.
Thank the universe I’ve always been up for a challenge.
A Legacy Witch is an upper YA/NA paranormal academy novel with an espionage twist! With an enemies-to-lovers romance, mysterious deaths, and a diverse cast of supernatural creatures, your enrollment at Spellcasters will be unlike anything you’ve experienced before.
Enroll today!
322 pages, ebook
First published September 23, 2019
519 people are currently reading
1578 people want to read
About the author
Ashley McLeo
62 books715 followersAshley lives in the lush and green Pacific Northwest with her husband, their dog, and the house ghost that sometimes makes appearances in her charming, old home.
When she’s not writing urban fantasy and portal fantasy novels she enjoys traveling the world, reading, kicking butt at board games (she recommends Splendor and Dominion), and frequenting taquerias.
For all the latest releases and updates, subscribe to Ashley’s newsletter, The Coven, today!
When she’s not writing urban fantasy and portal fantasy novels she enjoys traveling the world, reading, kicking butt at board games (she recommends Splendor and Dominion), and frequenting taquerias.
For all the latest releases and updates, subscribe to Ashley’s newsletter, The Coven, today!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 170 reviews
February 16, 2025
“I thought so… can you create a shield?”
Hunter took a huge breath and stuck out his hands. His eyes narrowed in concentration. I wondered if he was trying to call a sword or something to him… a dome settled over him. I tilted my head ***wondering what I was looking at.***
WHAT? It’s a SHIELD you dumb c*nt. Is she really this daft?? The coach specifically asked Hunter to create a shield and her first thought when Hunter readies himself to comply is “is he calling a sword?” Then it’s formed and she’s still confused!
(Also, right before this she has no clue what’s going on, showed up *late* to a battle class in a skirt and even though she doesn’t understand the exercise, volunteered to go first. I mean.. at least observe to learn before broadcasting your incompetence?)
So it’s possible my own biases help to cloud judgement here because Legacy admissions are total BS but this chick is totally proving the point!
You have a school full of people who trained their whole lives to achieve admission, physically and mentally. They took a hardcore test, and most importantly seem to know up from down.
Then you have our FMC who can’t even be fucked to read an orientation packet before arriving, wants to throw a party on her first night there, and can’t even get into her own room without wasting other people’s time.
If she were at least mildly informed on the school ahead of time, I think I would like her more. But how are you applying to a school of ESPIONAGE without baseline info?? The idea behind espionage is OBTAINING INFORMATION and she can’t even do that without someone holding her hand.
So yeah. If the moral of the story is “I want to show people what absolute bullshit legacy admissions are” then the author succeeded but I sort of feel like she was going for the opposite since obviously our FMC is going to be some sort of powerhouse who dominates over all the others who actually applied themselves before attending.
I don’t mind bumbling main characters so much but I hate when their ignorance is willful.
Hunter took a huge breath and stuck out his hands. His eyes narrowed in concentration. I wondered if he was trying to call a sword or something to him… a dome settled over him. I tilted my head ***wondering what I was looking at.***
WHAT? It’s a SHIELD you dumb c*nt. Is she really this daft?? The coach specifically asked Hunter to create a shield and her first thought when Hunter readies himself to comply is “is he calling a sword?” Then it’s formed and she’s still confused!
(Also, right before this she has no clue what’s going on, showed up *late* to a battle class in a skirt and even though she doesn’t understand the exercise, volunteered to go first. I mean.. at least observe to learn before broadcasting your incompetence?)
So it’s possible my own biases help to cloud judgement here because Legacy admissions are total BS but this chick is totally proving the point!
You have a school full of people who trained their whole lives to achieve admission, physically and mentally. They took a hardcore test, and most importantly seem to know up from down.
Then you have our FMC who can’t even be fucked to read an orientation packet before arriving, wants to throw a party on her first night there, and can’t even get into her own room without wasting other people’s time.
If she were at least mildly informed on the school ahead of time, I think I would like her more. But how are you applying to a school of ESPIONAGE without baseline info?? The idea behind espionage is OBTAINING INFORMATION and she can’t even do that without someone holding her hand.
So yeah. If the moral of the story is “I want to show people what absolute bullshit legacy admissions are” then the author succeeded but I sort of feel like she was going for the opposite since obviously our FMC is going to be some sort of powerhouse who dominates over all the others who actually applied themselves before attending.
I don’t mind bumbling main characters so much but I hate when their ignorance is willful.
February 17, 2020
This book was a mixed bag for me. I was excited to read it because I heard there were references to Arthurian legends. If you go into it expecting any kind of mythology, though, you’re going to be disappointed.
It started out fairly strong. The main character, Odette, seemed shallow and selfish but I had hopes that she would get better with time. At least she was trying to be friendly, even if her idea of making friends was to throw a party that most of the students didn’t seem to care about. But she shrugs it off like–well, like she seems to shrug off everything rather quickly.
Like the fact that she knows nothing about magic unlike virtually every other student at the school. I realize that her parents were refusing to teach her any magic (for reasons that are revealed later), but if she was so determined to go to a magic school, why wouldn’t she have tried to learn on her own? She didn’t even read the entrance paperwork before orientation. And once she sees how far behind she is, she just complains about how hard things are but doesn’t put in extra work to improve until someone else ultimately figures out how to help her.
The book is fairly detailed for about the first two months of school. You can read how Odette is training in magic, how students are getting attacked and dying, and then the first test of their powers. But then it switches to summaries that tell rather than show most of the action. Just a few scenes quickly show how Odette gets a boyfriend, figures out what’s wrong with her powers, and passes the second test. More time is spent describing random jewelry than how she is actually improving or worrying about her problems.
Then the Arthurian legends finally get referenced in the smallest way. Merlin and Morgan Le Fay are mentioned as powerful witches in the past but there is nothing that ties to older stories. From the descriptions, it could have been any random male and female witches. Maybe there will be more about the legends in later books in this series, but so far it was disappointing.
Finally, the overdramatic description of the school doesn’t follow through. At the start of the year, the teachers emphasize that their first year is called The Culling because not every student is expected to pass. With three tests, they must succeed in at least two or they could be kicked out, and it’s stated that it is possible to die in the tests. But no one actually fails any test (I’m not sure it was even possible to fail the second one). Out of thirty-one at the start of the year, three students die in random attacks outside of the tests and then two more drop out right before the final test because of the deaths. But deaths were supposedly expected in the dangerous spy school?
There were some interesting scenes and ideas in this story, but the overall story didn’t make much sense to me and it seemed to jump around too much in the narrative. I don’t plan to read further books in this series.
It started out fairly strong. The main character, Odette, seemed shallow and selfish but I had hopes that she would get better with time. At least she was trying to be friendly, even if her idea of making friends was to throw a party that most of the students didn’t seem to care about. But she shrugs it off like–well, like she seems to shrug off everything rather quickly.
Like the fact that she knows nothing about magic unlike virtually every other student at the school. I realize that her parents were refusing to teach her any magic (for reasons that are revealed later), but if she was so determined to go to a magic school, why wouldn’t she have tried to learn on her own? She didn’t even read the entrance paperwork before orientation. And once she sees how far behind she is, she just complains about how hard things are but doesn’t put in extra work to improve until someone else ultimately figures out how to help her.
The book is fairly detailed for about the first two months of school. You can read how Odette is training in magic, how students are getting attacked and dying, and then the first test of their powers. But then it switches to summaries that tell rather than show most of the action. Just a few scenes quickly show how Odette gets a boyfriend, figures out what’s wrong with her powers, and passes the second test. More time is spent describing random jewelry than how she is actually improving or worrying about her problems.
Then the Arthurian legends finally get referenced in the smallest way. Merlin and Morgan Le Fay are mentioned as powerful witches in the past but there is nothing that ties to older stories. From the descriptions, it could have been any random male and female witches. Maybe there will be more about the legends in later books in this series, but so far it was disappointing.
Finally, the overdramatic description of the school doesn’t follow through. At the start of the year, the teachers emphasize that their first year is called The Culling because not every student is expected to pass. With three tests, they must succeed in at least two or they could be kicked out, and it’s stated that it is possible to die in the tests. But no one actually fails any test (I’m not sure it was even possible to fail the second one). Out of thirty-one at the start of the year, three students die in random attacks outside of the tests and then two more drop out right before the final test because of the deaths. But deaths were supposedly expected in the dangerous spy school?
There were some interesting scenes and ideas in this story, but the overall story didn’t make much sense to me and it seemed to jump around too much in the narrative. I don’t plan to read further books in this series.
January 18, 2024
This was such a fun read. I highly recommend this to anyone who is looking for a fun, quick read. The characters were so relatable and realistically written. The atmosphere and world of this book was intricate, and listening to the audiobook along with the ebook made the world come alive. This is one of my favorite books of 2024 so far.
March 12, 2023
Maybe 3.5-3.75. Good, quick read. Interesting enough plot to keep me turning the page. I think it is a good intro to the series.
I was unsure at the beginning as I initially did not care for Odette, she seemed a bit of a flake with her naïveté and unpreparedness for something she claimed to desperately want, but she got better and as soon as she made friends with Eva I found myself getting on board.
Pros:
- entertained me and I looked forward to the next chapter
- enjoyed the spellcasters setting
- normal teens who just happen to be supernatural
- main character is not perfect and she is likable
- the idea of training to be a witch spy is at least a bit different and I like hearing about the classes, etc
- Mystery: why is Odettte struggling (which I figured out early since I also read A Discovery of Witches) and why are kids dying
- I liked the foursome together, gave the story more than just Odette
- I like that there is bigger meaning to Odette’s relationship, but won’t go into detail to avoid spoilers
Cons: No big cons, just what I saw as missed opportunities to make the book better
- world building could have been better. Learning about the world the characters inhabit is the best part of books in this genre. In this case, the world is spellcasters. I know not everyone can be JK Rowling, but I felt the author only went into a little more detail when it suited the plot. The details were light in some cases and I wanted more. For instance:
- - - - I would like to have had chapters just about their everyday life, what was the food hall like, what where different classes like, what were they learning, was there extracurricular activities, what about Wandstown, a magical city barely mentioned? I think that would have been interesting to learn more about and understand what was there and seeing them hanging out. Instead everything was strictly plot oriented. I am hoping the author dives into these things more in future books
- - - - Also there was limited talk about specifics of the world unless it came up in the plot and then it was just thrown in. I am unclear as to the inter-magical relationships. Seems like they are all enemies with other magic beings, but yet they all came together at Beltrane? Are fairies little creatures or humans who are magical like witches? Given what happened with the fae, I initially assumed the first, but then during Beltrane we learn there is a fae academy making it sound like spellcasters and it left me kind of unclear.
There also should have been a little more dialogue about the “incidents” too to help explain the world and how and why this could happen, but the plot just kept moving on with little explanation or having the characters dig in or extrapolate on what happened to help the reader along….which brings me the my other point:
- The author often cut off a chapter right when it got good and we never saw any aftermath when something big happened, she would just cut to a few days later and everyone had moved on and nobody discusses the big events. It was disappointing and felt like I was left hanging. At least show the four convening in Odette’s room to discuss or go over events and ponder what they mean to build up the plot, but it is like they take it in stride and move on to worrying about studies or the next challenge and the incidents are barely mentioned again until r addressed by staff. Not realistic. On the plus side, it kept the story moving, but it also felt abrupt and unresolved. Even a few paragraphs would have been nice.
- On the same note, I found it odd that it wasn’t until Penelope’s parents came that they even touch on anyone being concerned what was going on and discuss whether they would continue or take steps of precaution. It seemed odd this wasn’t discussed more, going back to my previous concern that big things were brushed over.
To sum it up, the plot often moved too fast and missed opportunities to build up the mystery or break things down to give the story more depth.
However, I bought the next book, so ultimately I liked it and would recommend if you like this genre.
I was unsure at the beginning as I initially did not care for Odette, she seemed a bit of a flake with her naïveté and unpreparedness for something she claimed to desperately want, but she got better and as soon as she made friends with Eva I found myself getting on board.
Pros:
- entertained me and I looked forward to the next chapter
- enjoyed the spellcasters setting
- normal teens who just happen to be supernatural
- main character is not perfect and she is likable
- the idea of training to be a witch spy is at least a bit different and I like hearing about the classes, etc
- Mystery: why is Odettte struggling (which I figured out early since I also read A Discovery of Witches) and why are kids dying
- I liked the foursome together, gave the story more than just Odette
- I like that there is bigger meaning to Odette’s relationship, but won’t go into detail to avoid spoilers
Cons: No big cons, just what I saw as missed opportunities to make the book better
- world building could have been better. Learning about the world the characters inhabit is the best part of books in this genre. In this case, the world is spellcasters. I know not everyone can be JK Rowling, but I felt the author only went into a little more detail when it suited the plot. The details were light in some cases and I wanted more. For instance:
- - - - I would like to have had chapters just about their everyday life, what was the food hall like, what where different classes like, what were they learning, was there extracurricular activities, what about Wandstown, a magical city barely mentioned? I think that would have been interesting to learn more about and understand what was there and seeing them hanging out. Instead everything was strictly plot oriented. I am hoping the author dives into these things more in future books
- - - - Also there was limited talk about specifics of the world unless it came up in the plot and then it was just thrown in. I am unclear as to the inter-magical relationships. Seems like they are all enemies with other magic beings, but yet they all came together at Beltrane? Are fairies little creatures or humans who are magical like witches? Given what happened with the fae, I initially assumed the first, but then during Beltrane we learn there is a fae academy making it sound like spellcasters and it left me kind of unclear.
There also should have been a little more dialogue about the “incidents” too to help explain the world and how and why this could happen, but the plot just kept moving on with little explanation or having the characters dig in or extrapolate on what happened to help the reader along….which brings me the my other point:
- The author often cut off a chapter right when it got good and we never saw any aftermath when something big happened, she would just cut to a few days later and everyone had moved on and nobody discusses the big events. It was disappointing and felt like I was left hanging. At least show the four convening in Odette’s room to discuss or go over events and ponder what they mean to build up the plot, but it is like they take it in stride and move on to worrying about studies or the next challenge and the incidents are barely mentioned again until r addressed by staff. Not realistic. On the plus side, it kept the story moving, but it also felt abrupt and unresolved. Even a few paragraphs would have been nice.
- On the same note, I found it odd that it wasn’t until Penelope’s parents came that they even touch on anyone being concerned what was going on and discuss whether they would continue or take steps of precaution. It seemed odd this wasn’t discussed more, going back to my previous concern that big things were brushed over.
To sum it up, the plot often moved too fast and missed opportunities to build up the mystery or break things down to give the story more depth.
However, I bought the next book, so ultimately I liked it and would recommend if you like this genre.
April 24, 2025
DNF at the beginning of chapter 2.
Our oh-so-amazing (sarcasm) heroine did not want (nor had to to be fair) take the entrance exam because she's legacy and thus a spot for her was already reserved. Not only that, but - especially -, despite her parents' concerns, she could not fathom why someone with a reserved spot would take the entrance exam and earn their spot.
Kill me 20min ago before I found this book.
Our oh-so-amazing (sarcasm) heroine did not want (nor had to to be fair) take the entrance exam because she's legacy and thus a spot for her was already reserved. Not only that, but - especially -, despite her parents' concerns, she could not fathom why someone with a reserved spot would take the entrance exam and earn their spot.
Kill me 20min ago before I found this book.
September 7, 2019
Outstanding New Academy Read - Full Of Class!!😍💥⚡
A Legacy Witch (Spellcasters Spy Academy Book 1)
This has such an outstanding storyline, it's almost ridiculous to lump it into the Academy genre because, like a so few, it's a class above the rest!!🌟
This is an edge of your seat read for a variety of reasons throughout. There are shocks, unfriendliness, spite & belittling, threats & even death!😱😭😡 Secrets have been kept from our very likable main character, Odette 'Odie' Dane, secrets that put her in grave danger as well as set her up to look a fool & a failure!😳😢 Luckily she has a close friendship form with, in the very first moments of meeting, her suite mate, Evanora 'Eva' Proctor. She too is feisty & sassy, loves clothes & looking the part!😂😍 They're both befriended almost immediately by sexy flirt, Hunter Wardwell. His cousin, who has captured Odie's eye & has her almost fixated, Alex Wardwell, isn't friendly to our three, in fact his & Hunters' family has been in a feud for many generations!!😳🙈 He's dismissive to Odie in the extreme.😡
They all want to be Spy's, that's why they're all there after all. But our Legacy Witch 🙈 Odie, stepped in knowing nothing. Can she learn fast enough to survive the Trials of Year One's Culling? Will her magic ever play along? Will anyone tell her what's really going on? Or will Odie be one of the Culled?😳😢 What have her Parent's done??😡😭💥
I devoured this book because it's just THAT gripping!!🌟😍🎉 I can't wait for more.😎
Debbie, 1970, UK
A Legacy Witch (Spellcasters Spy Academy Book 1)
This has such an outstanding storyline, it's almost ridiculous to lump it into the Academy genre because, like a so few, it's a class above the rest!!🌟
This is an edge of your seat read for a variety of reasons throughout. There are shocks, unfriendliness, spite & belittling, threats & even death!😱😭😡 Secrets have been kept from our very likable main character, Odette 'Odie' Dane, secrets that put her in grave danger as well as set her up to look a fool & a failure!😳😢 Luckily she has a close friendship form with, in the very first moments of meeting, her suite mate, Evanora 'Eva' Proctor. She too is feisty & sassy, loves clothes & looking the part!😂😍 They're both befriended almost immediately by sexy flirt, Hunter Wardwell. His cousin, who has captured Odie's eye & has her almost fixated, Alex Wardwell, isn't friendly to our three, in fact his & Hunters' family has been in a feud for many generations!!😳🙈 He's dismissive to Odie in the extreme.😡
They all want to be Spy's, that's why they're all there after all. But our Legacy Witch 🙈 Odie, stepped in knowing nothing. Can she learn fast enough to survive the Trials of Year One's Culling? Will her magic ever play along? Will anyone tell her what's really going on? Or will Odie be one of the Culled?😳😢 What have her Parent's done??😡😭💥
I devoured this book because it's just THAT gripping!!🌟😍🎉 I can't wait for more.😎
Debbie, 1970, UK
October 4, 2023
I listened to the audiobook of this and I have a few comments on that first:
-terrible, terrible production. The voices jumped all over like they were spliced together from a million separate recordings. Not seamless at all.
-the "voice" for the BFF was so annoying I wanted to crawl in the book and put my hand over her mouth.
As for the story itself:
-promising premise, but I am shocked at why this is considered YA. Tons and tons of language and drinking. No character development. Predictable. Unlikable love interest.
-terrible, terrible production. The voices jumped all over like they were spliced together from a million separate recordings. Not seamless at all.
-the "voice" for the BFF was so annoying I wanted to crawl in the book and put my hand over her mouth.
As for the story itself:
-promising premise, but I am shocked at why this is considered YA. Tons and tons of language and drinking. No character development. Predictable. Unlikable love interest.
September 23, 2019
This book was full of drama, romance and Demons! I absolutely loved it.
All Odette’s life she wanted to attend Spellcaster Academy. Her parents have always wanted her to live a normal life, so she didn’t get to use her magic much. Instead of taking the test she took the Legacy route.
She finds out that she has been missing a lot of information that her parents should have told her about.
I can’t wait for the next book.
All Odette’s life she wanted to attend Spellcaster Academy. Her parents have always wanted her to live a normal life, so she didn’t get to use her magic much. Instead of taking the test she took the Legacy route.
She finds out that she has been missing a lot of information that her parents should have told her about.
I can’t wait for the next book.
November 24, 2019
Another winner
Another amazing story. Once you start reading this book you will not be able to put it down. The characters, the storyline the mystery surrounding the students. Everything is perfect. I enjoyed reading it and I can't wait for more.
Another amazing story. Once you start reading this book you will not be able to put it down. The characters, the storyline the mystery surrounding the students. Everything is perfect. I enjoyed reading it and I can't wait for more.
October 13, 2019
What a delightful fantasy story. Odie is wonderful as the main character, brings the story to life.
January 2, 2022
I was given the awesome opportunity of reading this book for an honest review and I am so stoked to deliver it on this. So thank you so much Ashley for letting me read an ARC of this. So...
Wow there was legit SO much to love about this book. First off, being an academy based book was a fantastic start but even if I put that aside I thoroughly enjoyed myself while reading this story. It wasn't long after starting that I was like I'm so gonna love this and I was right. Clearly I know what I like lol. I'm gonna have to give this book like maybe a 4.8 ⭐️
There were so many aspects of this story that I loved. I was intrigued right from the beginning, the story development was well-paced for my liking, the characters were well thought out (which to me is something that is SUPER important), it had awesome friendships that I know are only going to grow more and a plot that I feel is developing quite nicely indeed.
Onto the juicer stuff ;)
That's me ↑ can never not talk about the romance side...and oh man the love interest...adorable. It starts off in I guess the cliche way of guy not liking girl, girl not understanding why...but I kinda like those relationships the most. I think it spices up the book lol. It's not until further into the book that our lovely Mr Handsome Wardwell sees beyond her Legacy title and that just because she entered the school without taking the tests didn't mean she was entitled or thought that everything should just be handed to her because of her family name. Sometimes it just takes the guys longer to learn that you shouldn't take things at face value.
“Well . . . not exactly. But definitely a legacy—from a good family, wealthy, attractive. That you hadn’t bothered to read the paperwork frustrated me. It reminded me of something that I believed Hunter would do. So I took all my anger out on you. With every class, it became more clear that you were unprepared to be here. And I’ll admit I thought you were glory-seeking when the fae was trying to shift Amethyst through the circle. That only added fuel to my fire.”
I let out an exasperated huff. “This apology is going south fast.”
“It was dumb—all of it,” Alex amended, “but I took my first perception and ran with it. Some say the Wardwells have a temper—although I’m pretty sure that’s only my side of the family. Hunter seems to charm everyone.”
....“After we returned from our trial and I saw your face, I knew that I’d misjudged you. You may not be prepared to be here, and you might have gone a little overboard with the saving Amethyst thing, but it’s just because you really care about others. You’re not some entitled legacy.”
But guys these two are like super duper perfect for each other! I'll just leave it at that...still being the hopeless romantic that I am I was a little disappointed that a lot of the romance side of things was brushed over. Like I wanted just a little more information on things to get a deeper feel for the bond that was building from day one. But I still enjoyed it.
The one thing that did make me drop my rating of this book just a little bit was sometimes it felt like bulk amounts of time were passing and I get that a whole year needed to be covered in this book but there was just something in me that didn't 100% like that lost time. Especially with the fact that Odette wasn't as familiar with the magical world as everyone else at the academy...maybe it was more to do with the fact that her learning curb of this world was lost a little with the time jumping. I'm not really sure.
Okay so just a little about the book, the blurb is pretty good at explaining the settings. But basically Odette is a witch who has been brought up in the limelight in Hollywood with rich parents that never really encouraged magic use and even kept their distance from other magical connections. She never really knew just how big a deal her parents were even though she was a legacy kid. This life was clearly not something her parents wanted for her, you see that right from the beginning.
But going to Spellcasters Academy was something Odie had always had her heart set on and so she never relented and that's how she finds herself at the school. Nothing though is ever that easy right though? From her first day of classes she realises that her lack of knowledge and experience in the magical world has put her at a disadvantage and when her magic refuses to show much potential her status as a Legacy not doing the entrance exam, makes her a bit of a social outcast. And earns her one heck of a mean girl. But what is an academy book without that one character lol?
Right from the beginning though she is lucky to meet her suite mate Eva in the most hilarious of settings in their joint bathroom and it involved a fair amount of powder lol. The two hit it off extremely well and become tight friends then a little down the line Hunter Wardwell - yes you know that last name right? Mister Handsome Jerk yes? nope...it's his cousin. A cousin that involves feuding families.
These guys friendships and characters you will seriously love from the moment you meet them! Believe me.
But all that aside there was a reason Odette's parents didn't want her going to the school. One that you don't learn until a lot further into the story...but when people start turning up dead (surprising to Odie not so surprising to the other students who have been in on the magical gossip), Odie is made aware of this 'curse' that has been at the academy taking students lives and things really start coming alive then.
I won't say much more but I thoroughly loved the twist of adding in the legends of Merlin & Morgan Le Fay and the use of magical totems and people of the same bloodlines of these magic users had me thoroughly intrigued.
I am truly intrigued to learn what happens next.
If you love worlds of the paranormal with magical users, demons, vampires, fae and academy schools where you can watch as the MC develops and grows this is the perfect story to dive into. I'd def suggest giving this book a go.
Anywho...now that I've talked your ears off..I'm gonna go lol.
Cheerio and happy reading my book nerds
Wow there was legit SO much to love about this book. First off, being an academy based book was a fantastic start but even if I put that aside I thoroughly enjoyed myself while reading this story. It wasn't long after starting that I was like I'm so gonna love this and I was right. Clearly I know what I like lol. I'm gonna have to give this book like maybe a 4.8 ⭐️
There were so many aspects of this story that I loved. I was intrigued right from the beginning, the story development was well-paced for my liking, the characters were well thought out (which to me is something that is SUPER important), it had awesome friendships that I know are only going to grow more and a plot that I feel is developing quite nicely indeed.
Onto the juicer stuff ;)
That's me ↑ can never not talk about the romance side...and oh man the love interest...adorable. It starts off in I guess the cliche way of guy not liking girl, girl not understanding why...but I kinda like those relationships the most. I think it spices up the book lol. It's not until further into the book that our lovely Mr Handsome Wardwell sees beyond her Legacy title and that just because she entered the school without taking the tests didn't mean she was entitled or thought that everything should just be handed to her because of her family name. Sometimes it just takes the guys longer to learn that you shouldn't take things at face value.
“Well . . . not exactly. But definitely a legacy—from a good family, wealthy, attractive. That you hadn’t bothered to read the paperwork frustrated me. It reminded me of something that I believed Hunter would do. So I took all my anger out on you. With every class, it became more clear that you were unprepared to be here. And I’ll admit I thought you were glory-seeking when the fae was trying to shift Amethyst through the circle. That only added fuel to my fire.”
I let out an exasperated huff. “This apology is going south fast.”
“It was dumb—all of it,” Alex amended, “but I took my first perception and ran with it. Some say the Wardwells have a temper—although I’m pretty sure that’s only my side of the family. Hunter seems to charm everyone.”
....“After we returned from our trial and I saw your face, I knew that I’d misjudged you. You may not be prepared to be here, and you might have gone a little overboard with the saving Amethyst thing, but it’s just because you really care about others. You’re not some entitled legacy.”
But guys these two are like super duper perfect for each other! I'll just leave it at that...still being the hopeless romantic that I am I was a little disappointed that a lot of the romance side of things was brushed over. Like I wanted just a little more information on things to get a deeper feel for the bond that was building from day one. But I still enjoyed it.
The one thing that did make me drop my rating of this book just a little bit was sometimes it felt like bulk amounts of time were passing and I get that a whole year needed to be covered in this book but there was just something in me that didn't 100% like that lost time. Especially with the fact that Odette wasn't as familiar with the magical world as everyone else at the academy...maybe it was more to do with the fact that her learning curb of this world was lost a little with the time jumping. I'm not really sure.
Okay so just a little about the book, the blurb is pretty good at explaining the settings. But basically Odette is a witch who has been brought up in the limelight in Hollywood with rich parents that never really encouraged magic use and even kept their distance from other magical connections. She never really knew just how big a deal her parents were even though she was a legacy kid. This life was clearly not something her parents wanted for her, you see that right from the beginning.
But going to Spellcasters Academy was something Odie had always had her heart set on and so she never relented and that's how she finds herself at the school. Nothing though is ever that easy right though? From her first day of classes she realises that her lack of knowledge and experience in the magical world has put her at a disadvantage and when her magic refuses to show much potential her status as a Legacy not doing the entrance exam, makes her a bit of a social outcast. And earns her one heck of a mean girl. But what is an academy book without that one character lol?
Right from the beginning though she is lucky to meet her suite mate Eva in the most hilarious of settings in their joint bathroom and it involved a fair amount of powder lol. The two hit it off extremely well and become tight friends then a little down the line Hunter Wardwell - yes you know that last name right? Mister Handsome Jerk yes? nope...it's his cousin. A cousin that involves feuding families.
These guys friendships and characters you will seriously love from the moment you meet them! Believe me.
But all that aside there was a reason Odette's parents didn't want her going to the school. One that you don't learn until a lot further into the story...but when people start turning up dead (surprising to Odie not so surprising to the other students who have been in on the magical gossip), Odie is made aware of this 'curse' that has been at the academy taking students lives and things really start coming alive then.
I won't say much more but I thoroughly loved the twist of adding in the legends of Merlin & Morgan Le Fay and the use of magical totems and people of the same bloodlines of these magic users had me thoroughly intrigued.
I am truly intrigued to learn what happens next.
If you love worlds of the paranormal with magical users, demons, vampires, fae and academy schools where you can watch as the MC develops and grows this is the perfect story to dive into. I'd def suggest giving this book a go.
Anywho...now that I've talked your ears off..I'm gonna go lol.
Cheerio and happy reading my book nerds
March 14, 2025
Pleasantly surprised by this book. Was drawn in fairly quick and really enjoyed the set up this book brings to what is obviously a series. Can be a stand alone book but definitely encourages continuing the series. Just remember these are 18 year old characters and at times present that teenage valley girl dialogue a bit much for my liking.
I listened to the audio book and while the narrator threw me off when presenting voices for the various characters the normal narration was pleasant.
I listened to the audio book and while the narrator threw me off when presenting voices for the various characters the normal narration was pleasant.
June 9, 2023
This was not good but still entertaining enough for me to read.
May 9, 2023
A fun YA book that tickles your Harry Potter itch but with a bit more sass and much better character naming.
October 3, 2019
Odette Dane is a legacy witch just entering Spellcaster’s Spy Academy. In fact, her parents met when they were both students there. She had dreamed of this future for herself for years. For some unknown reason, her parents tried everything to dissuade her. They would have preferred that she follow in their footsteps and pursue a Hollywood career. Even though her parents seem filled with pleasant memories, when they arrive at the school, and are happy to get reacquainted with old friends, they are decidedly edgy about leaving her. The school has great security, with wards set to keep out any uninvited visitors, human or supernatural. So, what could go wrong?
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I’m am always open to helping self and independent published authors by providing a review or interview for their new releases. You can request a promotion of your book by clicking on this link and filling out the required form.
The plot of the first book in the Spellcaster Spy Academy was a real roller coaster. From the first page to the last, the book is filled with tension and mystery. There are so many surprises, twists and turns that I didn’t see coming, that I found it difficult to put the book down. It’s rare that a twist in a story makes me gasp, but this is the exactly what happened here. I was also left wanting more and will be eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
The setting of a magic-based college/academy could have been cliche and stereotypical, but the author does a great job of adding a twist to the setting we’re so familiar with. Adding in the spymasters element, there’s an extra layer of mystery and intrigue in the setting. In some ways, I wish the main character was more oblivious to the ways her world works, since at times I felt like I was left to assume the rules of the world, or things were explained too late into the novel.
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I often struggled to connect to the main character of the novel, Odette Dane. Her situation is interesting, but as she came from a very privileged position, since her parents are powerful witches and spies, she starts out difficult for me to connect to. Eventually, I warmed up to her, but it took longer than I would have liked. Additionally, the male characters were less well-developed than I’d like. They mostly seemed to be arm candy who sometimes played a role in the plot.
A Legacy Witch is the first book in the Spellcaster Spy Academy series. It’s a fun and quick read, with surprises you will never see the coming. The setting is unique, but I wish I’d been able to learn more about the rules earlier on. While I wasn’t a huge fan of the main character, I was invested enough in the plot that I’ll be eagerly waiting for the next book in the series.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I’m am always open to helping self and independent published authors by providing a review or interview for their new releases. You can request a promotion of your book by clicking on this link and filling out the required form.
The plot of the first book in the Spellcaster Spy Academy was a real roller coaster. From the first page to the last, the book is filled with tension and mystery. There are so many surprises, twists and turns that I didn’t see coming, that I found it difficult to put the book down. It’s rare that a twist in a story makes me gasp, but this is the exactly what happened here. I was also left wanting more and will be eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.
The setting of a magic-based college/academy could have been cliche and stereotypical, but the author does a great job of adding a twist to the setting we’re so familiar with. Adding in the spymasters element, there’s an extra layer of mystery and intrigue in the setting. In some ways, I wish the main character was more oblivious to the ways her world works, since at times I felt like I was left to assume the rules of the world, or things were explained too late into the novel.
16430470.jpg
I often struggled to connect to the main character of the novel, Odette Dane. Her situation is interesting, but as she came from a very privileged position, since her parents are powerful witches and spies, she starts out difficult for me to connect to. Eventually, I warmed up to her, but it took longer than I would have liked. Additionally, the male characters were less well-developed than I’d like. They mostly seemed to be arm candy who sometimes played a role in the plot.
A Legacy Witch is the first book in the Spellcaster Spy Academy series. It’s a fun and quick read, with surprises you will never see the coming. The setting is unique, but I wish I’d been able to learn more about the rules earlier on. While I wasn’t a huge fan of the main character, I was invested enough in the plot that I’ll be eagerly waiting for the next book in the series.
September 21, 2019
Shadowhunters Meets Hogwarts! I guarantee if you are either a Cassandra Clare or Harry Potter fan (or both!) you will fall in love with A Legacy Witch. (Spellcasters Spy Academy Book 1)
Odette Dane is a witch who has wanted to attend Spellcaster Academy since as long as she can remember. The only problem is that her parents, the infamous Dane's, who graduated from the Academy, wanted her to lead a normal life so they didn't allow her to use her magic much. However that is not stopping Odette (or Odie) from following her dream. As their daughter she is known as a Legacy Witch and is guaranteed a spot based on that alone. Spellcaster graduates go on to eventually spy for the PIA, the Paranormal Intelligence Agency, and that is Odie's dream.
As soon as Odette steps foot inside the hallowed halls the intrigue, secrets, bullying, romance, friendships and adventures begin. (Everything you expect in school, right?) Since Odette's magic is rusty and basically non-existent, her academics start of poorly and she finds herself at the bottom of her class. In addition, many of her fellow classmates despise and ridicule her for getting admitted as a Legacy instead of "testing in."
When it seems as though Odette will have nothing but struggles she meets her suite mate, Evanora (Eva) Proctor and they become fast friends, BFF's you might say. Hunter Wardell, Eva's crush, befriends Odette as well and they always have her back, often helping with her magic and trying to find the answers to the questions Odette is seeking. Eventually Hunter's HOT cousin Alex, who captured Odie's eye from the beginning, has a change of heart towards her.
Not only are the students enrolled in classes such as Basics of Demonology, and Battle Magic, they are in Physical Conditioning strengthening themselves and thier magic for thier upcoming first year trials, in the hopes of passing and not being culled. As they are focused on their studies everything takes a turn for the worse as their classmates begin showing up dead.
Can they learn fast enough to pass the trials? Can they figure out the reason for their classmate's deaths? Will Odette's magic ever be enough or will she be among the culled?
I honestly devoured this book as I fell in love with all the characters, the outstanding storyline, the plot twists, not to mention Spellcaster Academy itself! If you love vampires, demons, faes, adventures, deaths, love stories and want to be transported into their magical world I highly recommend this book! I am already anxiously awaiting book #2 A Rebel Witch.
***I was given the incredible opportunity to receive an ARC of this book for an honest review.***
Odette Dane is a witch who has wanted to attend Spellcaster Academy since as long as she can remember. The only problem is that her parents, the infamous Dane's, who graduated from the Academy, wanted her to lead a normal life so they didn't allow her to use her magic much. However that is not stopping Odette (or Odie) from following her dream. As their daughter she is known as a Legacy Witch and is guaranteed a spot based on that alone. Spellcaster graduates go on to eventually spy for the PIA, the Paranormal Intelligence Agency, and that is Odie's dream.
As soon as Odette steps foot inside the hallowed halls the intrigue, secrets, bullying, romance, friendships and adventures begin. (Everything you expect in school, right?) Since Odette's magic is rusty and basically non-existent, her academics start of poorly and she finds herself at the bottom of her class. In addition, many of her fellow classmates despise and ridicule her for getting admitted as a Legacy instead of "testing in."
When it seems as though Odette will have nothing but struggles she meets her suite mate, Evanora (Eva) Proctor and they become fast friends, BFF's you might say. Hunter Wardell, Eva's crush, befriends Odette as well and they always have her back, often helping with her magic and trying to find the answers to the questions Odette is seeking. Eventually Hunter's HOT cousin Alex, who captured Odie's eye from the beginning, has a change of heart towards her.
Not only are the students enrolled in classes such as Basics of Demonology, and Battle Magic, they are in Physical Conditioning strengthening themselves and thier magic for thier upcoming first year trials, in the hopes of passing and not being culled. As they are focused on their studies everything takes a turn for the worse as their classmates begin showing up dead.
Can they learn fast enough to pass the trials? Can they figure out the reason for their classmate's deaths? Will Odette's magic ever be enough or will she be among the culled?
I honestly devoured this book as I fell in love with all the characters, the outstanding storyline, the plot twists, not to mention Spellcaster Academy itself! If you love vampires, demons, faes, adventures, deaths, love stories and want to be transported into their magical world I highly recommend this book! I am already anxiously awaiting book #2 A Rebel Witch.
***I was given the incredible opportunity to receive an ARC of this book for an honest review.***
September 18, 2019
This series is like what you'd get if the lighthearted humor of Kelly McClymer's Salem Witch Tryouts met the ethereal realm of Aprilynn Pike's Wings, and got mixed in with a little bit of darkness a la PC Cast's House of Night series. I am ALL for it.
A Legacy Witch is the first book in the Spellcasters Spy Academy trilogy, and it follows Odette Dane (Odie, for short) as she leaves her home, her parents, her human life back in Hollywood, and moves to Maine to attend a three year spy academy. Graduates of this school can eventually can spy for the US intelligence agency. No, not for the CIA, the PIA...Paranormal Intelligence Agency. Paranormal because these spies-in-training are witches, have magic, cast spells, and face paranormal enemies (faes, demons, wraiths, vampires, etc.)
Since Odie is a legacy witch of the famed Dane bloodline, school should come easy for her--except it doesn't. She struggles hard. She's never practiced using magic because her parents always wanted her to have a normal life, and now she finds herself constantly placing at the bottom of her class. Many of her classmates look down on her because they think she only got in because she was a legacy. One of those classmates happens to be a super hot guy named Alex Wardwell. She also has to make it through real-life "trials" during her first year where she has to face some kind of paranormal enemy. Failure or prematurely calling for backup potentially leads to expulsion. And to top all of that, there's someone, or something out there that keeps attacking students in her year.
Reading this book, I was quickly transported into the world that Ashley McLeo created, and devoured this book. There's adventure, excitement, magic, romance, friendship, family, drama, paranormal smackdowns, and even deaths! I've ended up rereading this book twice already, and it is my morning commute guilty pleasure. I can't wait for Book #2, A Rebel Witch, but while I'm waiting for that to come out, I've already read #1.1, A Marked Witch, the short story that takes place during the summer before the next year of school starts. All in all, highly recommend!
A Legacy Witch is the first book in the Spellcasters Spy Academy trilogy, and it follows Odette Dane (Odie, for short) as she leaves her home, her parents, her human life back in Hollywood, and moves to Maine to attend a three year spy academy. Graduates of this school can eventually can spy for the US intelligence agency. No, not for the CIA, the PIA...Paranormal Intelligence Agency. Paranormal because these spies-in-training are witches, have magic, cast spells, and face paranormal enemies (faes, demons, wraiths, vampires, etc.)
Since Odie is a legacy witch of the famed Dane bloodline, school should come easy for her--except it doesn't. She struggles hard. She's never practiced using magic because her parents always wanted her to have a normal life, and now she finds herself constantly placing at the bottom of her class. Many of her classmates look down on her because they think she only got in because she was a legacy. One of those classmates happens to be a super hot guy named Alex Wardwell. She also has to make it through real-life "trials" during her first year where she has to face some kind of paranormal enemy. Failure or prematurely calling for backup potentially leads to expulsion. And to top all of that, there's someone, or something out there that keeps attacking students in her year.
Reading this book, I was quickly transported into the world that Ashley McLeo created, and devoured this book. There's adventure, excitement, magic, romance, friendship, family, drama, paranormal smackdowns, and even deaths! I've ended up rereading this book twice already, and it is my morning commute guilty pleasure. I can't wait for Book #2, A Rebel Witch, but while I'm waiting for that to come out, I've already read #1.1, A Marked Witch, the short story that takes place during the summer before the next year of school starts. All in all, highly recommend!
September 6, 2019
Yeah! A new witch series by Ashley McLeo. Judging by this first episode, it is sure to be as amazing as all her other books! Follow a group of young witches as they train for a very dangerous career.
Odette Dane is a legacy witch just entering Spellcaster’s Spy Academy. In fact, her parents met when they were both students there. She had dreamed of this future for herself for years. For some unknown reason, her parents tried everything to dissuade her. They would have preferred that she follow in their footsteps and pursue a Hollywood career.
Even though her parents seem filled with pleasant memories, when they arrive at the school, and are happy to get reacquainted with old friends, they are decidedly edgy about leaving her. The school has great security, with wards set to keep out any uninvited visitors, human or supernatural. So, what could go wrong?
Odie soon discovers that her future doesn’t look quite as bright as she imagined it. The headmistress’s daughter, along with many other students are unhappy that Odette took the “Legacy” route to claim her position. It seems that every other student, including those with legacy rights, passed a brutal entrance exam before attending.
She is used to being liked. She had plenty of practice being gracious and charming in Hollywood. Here it seems no matter how hard she tries she isn’t easily accepted. At least her suite mate, Evanora, is friendly.
It becomes quickly apparent that all things are not rosy at the school. Her classmates stand at thirty-one, when most years, new enrollment is nearly one hundred. Witches her age have been dying in record numbers. There are even rumors of a curse!
Will the school be a safe enclave for the first-year students? Can Odie bring her magic up to par with the other students before she is dismissed? Will she ever be accepted by the rest of the students? If not, it will prove to be a very long three years!
Odette Dane is a legacy witch just entering Spellcaster’s Spy Academy. In fact, her parents met when they were both students there. She had dreamed of this future for herself for years. For some unknown reason, her parents tried everything to dissuade her. They would have preferred that she follow in their footsteps and pursue a Hollywood career.
Even though her parents seem filled with pleasant memories, when they arrive at the school, and are happy to get reacquainted with old friends, they are decidedly edgy about leaving her. The school has great security, with wards set to keep out any uninvited visitors, human or supernatural. So, what could go wrong?
Odie soon discovers that her future doesn’t look quite as bright as she imagined it. The headmistress’s daughter, along with many other students are unhappy that Odette took the “Legacy” route to claim her position. It seems that every other student, including those with legacy rights, passed a brutal entrance exam before attending.
She is used to being liked. She had plenty of practice being gracious and charming in Hollywood. Here it seems no matter how hard she tries she isn’t easily accepted. At least her suite mate, Evanora, is friendly.
It becomes quickly apparent that all things are not rosy at the school. Her classmates stand at thirty-one, when most years, new enrollment is nearly one hundred. Witches her age have been dying in record numbers. There are even rumors of a curse!
Will the school be a safe enclave for the first-year students? Can Odie bring her magic up to par with the other students before she is dismissed? Will she ever be accepted by the rest of the students? If not, it will prove to be a very long three years!
September 20, 2019
A Legacy Witch follows students who are attending Spellcasters Spy Academy for the first time. The young witches and wizards are in training not only to be a spy but to learn to be better with their magic and to become stronger
The students have different trails they must face it they are to advance to the next class. The students learn about different demons and their abilities and how to fight them. Who will be strong enough to advance to the next class?
There are less first year students this year as someone has been killing them off one by one. Some believe that a curse was placed on first year students a long time ago. Who would want the students dead and why do they want them dead? Can they break the curse?
The students also come face to face with other paranormal creatures like vampires, demons, and elves as they are training and during the trails. The students have to learn to fight together and help each other instead of only fighting for themselves. Or competing against one another if they are ever hope to be a spy. They have to learn to trust one another and take charge of any given situation.
Once I picked up A Legacy Witch I couldn’t put it down I just wanted to turn the pages faster and faster as each student completed in their trails fighting demons and vampires to see who would make it out alive, the students or the demons. I also loved seeing the students use their magic, oh man that would be an awesome sight to behold.. I can’t wait to read more about Odette, Hunter, Alex and Eva in year two of the Spellcasters Spy Academy.
If you like reading about witches, magic, demons, vampires or elves in an academy setting then you are going to fall in love with A Legacy Witch I highly recommend that you one click yourself a copy today to begin this magical journey.
The students have different trails they must face it they are to advance to the next class. The students learn about different demons and their abilities and how to fight them. Who will be strong enough to advance to the next class?
There are less first year students this year as someone has been killing them off one by one. Some believe that a curse was placed on first year students a long time ago. Who would want the students dead and why do they want them dead? Can they break the curse?
The students also come face to face with other paranormal creatures like vampires, demons, and elves as they are training and during the trails. The students have to learn to fight together and help each other instead of only fighting for themselves. Or competing against one another if they are ever hope to be a spy. They have to learn to trust one another and take charge of any given situation.
Once I picked up A Legacy Witch I couldn’t put it down I just wanted to turn the pages faster and faster as each student completed in their trails fighting demons and vampires to see who would make it out alive, the students or the demons. I also loved seeing the students use their magic, oh man that would be an awesome sight to behold.. I can’t wait to read more about Odette, Hunter, Alex and Eva in year two of the Spellcasters Spy Academy.
If you like reading about witches, magic, demons, vampires or elves in an academy setting then you are going to fall in love with A Legacy Witch I highly recommend that you one click yourself a copy today to begin this magical journey.
September 25, 2019
I received a digital arc in exchange for an honest review. This is simply my opinion on the book and is not influenced by any external factor.
I’ve been reading a few academy books this month (possibly because September is usually back to school month). Prior to this month, I hadn’t really read any of these academy books and am still fairly new to the genre. This book has given me a good impression of academy books in general, and definitely left me wishing I had the second book in my hands when I finished it.
TRIGGER WARNING: there are deaths which are very mildly graphic, and one heavy make-out scene (however, is very brief and does not contain any explicit adult content). There are some instances of mild language.
This isn’t your typical academy book, with shifters and all that – this is a school for witches and spies. Think of Harry Potter, but with more spy missions, incredible characters, and more romance.
Odette ‘Odie’ Dane has always dreamed of going to Spellcasters Academy, a school for witches and espionage. Her parents had gone to this school before her, and she has great expectations of succeeding. But there are a few things she forgot to take into consideration – jealous students, difficulties controlling her power, and a curse causing students in her year to die.
Odette has a very strong friendship with Eva and Hunter, her classmates. There’s also an enemies-to-lovers romances that is a little more fast paced than slow burn, and does not overtake the main plot.
Suspense, intrigue, action…all that combined with a school where students with magical abilities learn to be spies, is definitely a treat. The author has really redefined the genre with this book and set the bar high for future installments. The rest of the series is now on my wish list and I will definitely re-read this book in the future.
I’ve been reading a few academy books this month (possibly because September is usually back to school month). Prior to this month, I hadn’t really read any of these academy books and am still fairly new to the genre. This book has given me a good impression of academy books in general, and definitely left me wishing I had the second book in my hands when I finished it.
TRIGGER WARNING: there are deaths which are very mildly graphic, and one heavy make-out scene (however, is very brief and does not contain any explicit adult content). There are some instances of mild language.
This isn’t your typical academy book, with shifters and all that – this is a school for witches and spies. Think of Harry Potter, but with more spy missions, incredible characters, and more romance.
Odette ‘Odie’ Dane has always dreamed of going to Spellcasters Academy, a school for witches and espionage. Her parents had gone to this school before her, and she has great expectations of succeeding. But there are a few things she forgot to take into consideration – jealous students, difficulties controlling her power, and a curse causing students in her year to die.
Odette has a very strong friendship with Eva and Hunter, her classmates. There’s also an enemies-to-lovers romances that is a little more fast paced than slow burn, and does not overtake the main plot.
Suspense, intrigue, action…all that combined with a school where students with magical abilities learn to be spies, is definitely a treat. The author has really redefined the genre with this book and set the bar high for future installments. The rest of the series is now on my wish list and I will definitely re-read this book in the future.
March 12, 2020
Two things that are great separately but together. All I can say is whoa.
September 30, 2019
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review! :)
A Legacy Witch is the first book in a brand-new series by Ashley McCleo- the Spellcasters Spy Academy series! Spellcasters draws immediate parallels to Harry Potter's Hogwarts for me, as both schools train witches and wizards. Spellcasters is more like a college, however, and trains students to become elite spies.
The main character of A Legacy Witch is Odette, who is a first year student at Spellcasters. Though her parents both attended the school and were revered spies, they are very hesitant for her to attend school. As it turns out, they have good reason for feeling this way... but no spoilers here! ;)
When Odette first arrives, she meets Diana, the headmistress's daughter. Diana has a huge chip on her shoulder when it comes to Odette, because Odette was the only student who chose to enroll in the academy based on her "legacy" status instead of actually testing in. Most of the other first years feel that way, too, which is not fun for Odette. She also starts out the year as one of the weakest witches (through no fault of her own) which makes her wonder if she even belongs at the school in the first place. She does make a few friends (and meets a love interest of course!) which makes her time at Spellcasters become more bearable!
During The Culling (as the first year at Spellcasters is officially called) there are two trials and one challenge that the first years must pass before continuing on to the next year. I won't spoil any of the details of them! The ending of the book surprised me, and I bet it surprised Odette too! I can't wait to read about her second and third years at Spellcasters! :)
A Legacy Witch is the first book in a brand-new series by Ashley McCleo- the Spellcasters Spy Academy series! Spellcasters draws immediate parallels to Harry Potter's Hogwarts for me, as both schools train witches and wizards. Spellcasters is more like a college, however, and trains students to become elite spies.
The main character of A Legacy Witch is Odette, who is a first year student at Spellcasters. Though her parents both attended the school and were revered spies, they are very hesitant for her to attend school. As it turns out, they have good reason for feeling this way... but no spoilers here! ;)
When Odette first arrives, she meets Diana, the headmistress's daughter. Diana has a huge chip on her shoulder when it comes to Odette, because Odette was the only student who chose to enroll in the academy based on her "legacy" status instead of actually testing in. Most of the other first years feel that way, too, which is not fun for Odette. She also starts out the year as one of the weakest witches (through no fault of her own) which makes her wonder if she even belongs at the school in the first place. She does make a few friends (and meets a love interest of course!) which makes her time at Spellcasters become more bearable!
During The Culling (as the first year at Spellcasters is officially called) there are two trials and one challenge that the first years must pass before continuing on to the next year. I won't spoil any of the details of them! The ending of the book surprised me, and I bet it surprised Odette too! I can't wait to read about her second and third years at Spellcasters! :)
September 7, 2019
Great start to a series. I loved the characters and the story. It has a lot of elements written it that kept me wanting more.
Odette Dane is a Legacy Witch who has been wanting to go to Spellcaster Academy since she can remember. Here is the twist Spellcaster is a Spy school for witches. What? Right that was what I said. As she navigates through school she is met with disdain because she is not as strong as everyone else. Also because she didn't take the exam so that leaves everyone think about what she really could do. Odette really tries hard to excel but is having difficulty with her magic. She doesn't understand why her parents were reluctant to let her go to school. Then everything just takes a turn for the worst. She tries to get answers and if it wasn't for her friends Hunter and Eva she would be lost. She finds strength in herself and pulls through. Then there is Alex Wardwell who has been mean to her until she changes his view of her. These four go through a lot and learn from each other. Over the course of the school year secrets are revealed, love interest are established and tragedy strikes. Does Odette have enough magic to succeed? Can she change overcome her challenges? What will happen with her and Alex? So many questions but they all get answered.
I loved how Odette was strong through her struggles and is determined to get through school. She didn't back down or let anyone get her down. Once you start, you will not want to stop. This is a definite must read and I loved the originality of it.
*** I received an advanced reader copy for an honest review. ***
Odette Dane is a Legacy Witch who has been wanting to go to Spellcaster Academy since she can remember. Here is the twist Spellcaster is a Spy school for witches. What? Right that was what I said. As she navigates through school she is met with disdain because she is not as strong as everyone else. Also because she didn't take the exam so that leaves everyone think about what she really could do. Odette really tries hard to excel but is having difficulty with her magic. She doesn't understand why her parents were reluctant to let her go to school. Then everything just takes a turn for the worst. She tries to get answers and if it wasn't for her friends Hunter and Eva she would be lost. She finds strength in herself and pulls through. Then there is Alex Wardwell who has been mean to her until she changes his view of her. These four go through a lot and learn from each other. Over the course of the school year secrets are revealed, love interest are established and tragedy strikes. Does Odette have enough magic to succeed? Can she change overcome her challenges? What will happen with her and Alex? So many questions but they all get answered.
I loved how Odette was strong through her struggles and is determined to get through school. She didn't back down or let anyone get her down. Once you start, you will not want to stop. This is a definite must read and I loved the originality of it.
*** I received an advanced reader copy for an honest review. ***
November 20, 2019
A Legacy Witch: Riveting!
Odette Dean was ecstatic; she had FINALLY arrived at Spellcaster's Academy! She KNEW it was the right thing to do; the right place to be!!! Wasn't it?? Odette was stymied when she received a less than warm "welcome" upon her arrival. Apparently not ALL students were thrilled she was admitted as a legacy student. Determined to make friends, Odette suggests a "mixer" for the first year students...
"If there was one thing I learned from my parents, it was that it’s all about who you know." - Odette Dean
Odette is feeling a bit more confident after the mixer; that is, until Diana and Tabitha decide to take the wind out of her sails. After an unprovoked attack lands Odette in the infirmary, Odette begins to question whether she's made the right decision to attend Spellcaster's. She has such weak magic; she can't seem to do ANY of the basic spells... When an eerie howl spirals through the night, Odette is drawn to investigate... And stumbles onto a nightmare...
Who is targeting the students, and why? Is it a curse, or something else? Odette and her friends are desperate for answers.... As danger swirls in the shadows that abound at Spellcaster's Academy...
Gripping! Riveting! Captivating! I'd give this book ten stars if I could! Well written, complex characters, plot lines that twine and weave together into an amazing, entertaining read.
Odette Dean was ecstatic; she had FINALLY arrived at Spellcaster's Academy! She KNEW it was the right thing to do; the right place to be!!! Wasn't it?? Odette was stymied when she received a less than warm "welcome" upon her arrival. Apparently not ALL students were thrilled she was admitted as a legacy student. Determined to make friends, Odette suggests a "mixer" for the first year students...
"If there was one thing I learned from my parents, it was that it’s all about who you know." - Odette Dean
Odette is feeling a bit more confident after the mixer; that is, until Diana and Tabitha decide to take the wind out of her sails. After an unprovoked attack lands Odette in the infirmary, Odette begins to question whether she's made the right decision to attend Spellcaster's. She has such weak magic; she can't seem to do ANY of the basic spells... When an eerie howl spirals through the night, Odette is drawn to investigate... And stumbles onto a nightmare...
Who is targeting the students, and why? Is it a curse, or something else? Odette and her friends are desperate for answers.... As danger swirls in the shadows that abound at Spellcaster's Academy...
Gripping! Riveting! Captivating! I'd give this book ten stars if I could! Well written, complex characters, plot lines that twine and weave together into an amazing, entertaining read.
January 31, 2020
Witches! Demons! Vampires! Fairies ! Shifters! Spies! Mystery! And murder!! All in a magical spy school! (Think hogwarts for 18+ year old spies in training against demons) What more could you want?
I really enjoyed this book! It was exciting and sucked me in right away. I liked the way the magic was described and the mysteries within the plot.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the main character for about the first half of the book, she felt entitled and whiny, but then she started to grow on me :) The other characters are a lot of fun and I like the little friend group we end up following.
I would have liked a little bit more description of the classrooms and things around the school to get a better picture in my mind, but that’s just my preference.
This was a very quick easy read for me but I did enjoy it for sure. The writing style feels almost like the Odette is telling you the story face to face. It reads the way a teenage girl would speak. It took a while for me to get used to it but it was a cool change from other things I’ve read recently. It suits the book and you get a better insight into how the character thinks.
All in all it’s a fun read in a cool world and I can’t wait to read the next one!
I really enjoyed this book! It was exciting and sucked me in right away. I liked the way the magic was described and the mysteries within the plot.
I wasn’t a huge fan of the main character for about the first half of the book, she felt entitled and whiny, but then she started to grow on me :) The other characters are a lot of fun and I like the little friend group we end up following.
I would have liked a little bit more description of the classrooms and things around the school to get a better picture in my mind, but that’s just my preference.
This was a very quick easy read for me but I did enjoy it for sure. The writing style feels almost like the Odette is telling you the story face to face. It reads the way a teenage girl would speak. It took a while for me to get used to it but it was a cool change from other things I’ve read recently. It suits the book and you get a better insight into how the character thinks.
All in all it’s a fun read in a cool world and I can’t wait to read the next one!
September 22, 2019
I'm a big fan of supernatural academy stories and this one did not disappoint. Loved the concept that an academy trained magic users to help the government protect humans from supernatural beings. The history and world building was spot on. The supernatural information was very interesting. I loved all of the characters individually and the friendship between Odette and Eva was fun. I think there was considerable growth for Odette but think there is still a ton more to experience on that front. Two things I didn't love that are related. I don't hate time hops because they help keep the story from getting bogged down with the same daily grind. However, I felt we didn't get to experience Odette's growth in magic nor did we get to experience the build of her relationship with Alex. Her relationship was another area that I found awkward. I appreciated that it wasn't an instalove situation but it seemed very choppy mostly because of the time hops. The relationship felt more plot driven versus genuine due to the lack of build up. Their relationship was better and more real when they "hated" each other. Hopefully in the next book this issue will work itself out. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it. Can't wait for the next installment.
September 17, 2019
Legacy Witch is an interesting story with solid writing. I enjoyed the characters and how the story unfolded.
I struggled a bit to connect with the main character. At the beginning of the story she comes off as very entitled. I figured that this was on purpose and would provide ample opportunity for growth. Instead of growth, it seemed the MC felt more justified in her entitlement. I still think the opportunity for growth is there as the story continues.
One other minor issue I had is the considerable amount of time skips that happen in the book. While overall I don’t generally mind this as a way to prevent the story from bogging down and keeping the plot moving forward, this time we skipped the build of the main relationship. It went from them not being in a relationship, skip a month, and now they are firmly a couple and we missed all the cute beginnings. This isn’t a big grip and is definitely more of a personal preference but I love watching the relationships develop at the beginning and I was very sad to have missed it here.
I would rate this book 3.5 stars but I’m rounding up because I think the story has a great amount of potential moving forward!
I struggled a bit to connect with the main character. At the beginning of the story she comes off as very entitled. I figured that this was on purpose and would provide ample opportunity for growth. Instead of growth, it seemed the MC felt more justified in her entitlement. I still think the opportunity for growth is there as the story continues.
One other minor issue I had is the considerable amount of time skips that happen in the book. While overall I don’t generally mind this as a way to prevent the story from bogging down and keeping the plot moving forward, this time we skipped the build of the main relationship. It went from them not being in a relationship, skip a month, and now they are firmly a couple and we missed all the cute beginnings. This isn’t a big grip and is definitely more of a personal preference but I love watching the relationships develop at the beginning and I was very sad to have missed it here.
I would rate this book 3.5 stars but I’m rounding up because I think the story has a great amount of potential moving forward!
November 12, 2019
I really liked this story where magic, meets academy, meets YA romance.
Odette is a Legacy student and wants to follow her "academy dream" in SSA. Sounds cool, right? Well, not when your magic is dormant and you are the daughter of famous students that DID ALL crazy things at their time!
Join Odette and her crew in their FIRST year of growing up in the academy, first love, looking for their own power in the middle of looking for the events that were happening throughout their lives. Nothing is what it seems, so maybe something will come to the light during that year?
Be ready for the adventure and rollercoaster!
Odette is a Legacy student and wants to follow her "academy dream" in SSA. Sounds cool, right? Well, not when your magic is dormant and you are the daughter of famous students that DID ALL crazy things at their time!
Join Odette and her crew in their FIRST year of growing up in the academy, first love, looking for their own power in the middle of looking for the events that were happening throughout their lives. Nothing is what it seems, so maybe something will come to the light during that year?
Be ready for the adventure and rollercoaster!
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February 24, 2020The MC is incredibly entitled and self-centred with the narrative voice of a preteen, which means the overall tone of the book is immature and somewhat grating. I barely finished the first chapter before I decided to simply end the torture and dnf it. After all, 2020 is supposed to be the year of self-love.
September 23, 2019
Another awesome academy read that I just could not put down! This is a well written upper YA/NA paranormal academy novel with an espionage twist! Filled with With mysterious deaths, supernatural creatures, drama, magic and enemies to lovers, this is a great start to this series and I cannot wait to read more!
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