What do you think?
Rate this book
The School of Necessary Magic #1-8
School of Necessary Magic Full Boxed Set
With great power comes greater mayhem…
Alison is a teen Drow with a past that’s been erased by the murder of her mother and the betrayal of her father.
Well, someone’s going to have to train the girl to use her powers wisely.
Good thing there’s a boarding school created to do just that.
High school is hard. Facing mountains of homework, that cute wizard, mean girl cliques, and mastering magic alone is nearly unbearable.
Enter her new best friend, Izzy. Izzy has a past that could get someone killed.
Too bad she can’t remember a thing.
She's a teenager with no idea who she is or what the power is growing inside her.
Becoming fast friends is a no brainer. Better to tackle the trials and tests awaiting them together.
Especially when they involve dark magic, malevolent forces, and a lost dragon egg.
Welcome to the School of Necessary Magic. Not since Hogwarts has learning been this magical…or dangerous.
For the first time ever, you can get the entire Alison Brownstone School of Necessary Magic in one giant boxed set! All 8 books are included for one low price.
Dark is Her Nature
Bright is Her Sight
Wary is Her Love
Strong is Her Hope
Wicked is Her Smile
Strange is Her Life
Determined is Her Path
Epic is Her Future
1694 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 3, 2019
919 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Judith Berens
78 books199 followersJudith Berens is a figment of your imagination, made up of the fevered brainpower of Michael Anderle and Martha Carr, fueled by a lot of people helping them out - as well as all of you, The Fans. Great stories mixed with a lot of great readers equals more adventures to follow.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
January 31, 2020
Always brilliant
Just loved it. Brilliant. Want more. Great storyline and characters. Can't wait for more. Big C, best wishes. You have a brilliant, magical mind that produce storyline that helped me through My C. I'm 2 months into my new remission life it was a hard fight but I put your books on audio . Looked nuts when laughing out loud with ear phones on but I'm grateful for all your books especially at 3am keep writing. Many thanks
Just loved it. Brilliant. Want more. Great storyline and characters. Can't wait for more. Big C, best wishes. You have a brilliant, magical mind that produce storyline that helped me through My C. I'm 2 months into my new remission life it was a hard fight but I put your books on audio . Looked nuts when laughing out loud with ear phones on but I'm grateful for all your books especially at 3am keep writing. Many thanks
April 5, 2021
Last three books in this series got way to much teenage angsty for me.
May 18, 2020
nothing special so don't bother
Honestly these books aren't that well written, they're extremely predictable and painfully heteronormative. I've read all the other books in this overall aeries and they're just as bad so don't bother
Honestly these books aren't that well written, they're extremely predictable and painfully heteronormative. I've read all the other books in this overall aeries and they're just as bad so don't bother
August 14, 2021
Fantastic series from start to finish!!!
Much like The Unbelievable Mr Brownstone series I was totally caught up in Alison's time at the
School of Necessary Magic and her friends. I'm long passed being a young adult in fact I'm slowly getting towards being 60 but she can give you a deeper appreciation of brilliant writing and allows you to become immersed much more deeply into the characters and their adventures. If I can't see the story playing like a film in my head as I read then it's not the book for me. Each one of the characters in this wonderfully written series compliment each other so well I was totally enthralled and even recommended them all including the Brownstone series to one of the women in my politicians who very quickly wrote them down before I paid for my new reading glasses. I have been extremely thankful that I could increase the font size during this Covid pandemic because of I can't read everyday life would be unbearable for me. I already have Alison's next series downloaded and ready to read as soon as I finish this review.. This series has everything I love to read about and Dorvu was a brilliant addition I love anything Dragon and he was a wonderful suprise. I would recommend this series to anyone who loves fantasy books and she is irrelevant although I would recommend that young adults is the best she to start with. Please just get reading all of this and the other series by this amazing independent publishers and you won't be disappointed!!!
Much like The Unbelievable Mr Brownstone series I was totally caught up in Alison's time at the
School of Necessary Magic and her friends. I'm long passed being a young adult in fact I'm slowly getting towards being 60 but she can give you a deeper appreciation of brilliant writing and allows you to become immersed much more deeply into the characters and their adventures. If I can't see the story playing like a film in my head as I read then it's not the book for me. Each one of the characters in this wonderfully written series compliment each other so well I was totally enthralled and even recommended them all including the Brownstone series to one of the women in my politicians who very quickly wrote them down before I paid for my new reading glasses. I have been extremely thankful that I could increase the font size during this Covid pandemic because of I can't read everyday life would be unbearable for me. I already have Alison's next series downloaded and ready to read as soon as I finish this review.. This series has everything I love to read about and Dorvu was a brilliant addition I love anything Dragon and he was a wonderful suprise. I would recommend this series to anyone who loves fantasy books and she is irrelevant although I would recommend that young adults is the best she to start with. Please just get reading all of this and the other series by this amazing independent publishers and you won't be disappointed!!!
October 20, 2022
Another enjoyable teen, mystery, action adventure set at the School of Necessary Magic
Alison Brownstone and Izzy have mysteries to unravel. Alison has secrets, Izzy has a past to remember, and the School of Necessary Magic holds more information than just education in things Oriceran. This is the origin story of two of the many inimitable characters who march through the doors of the school. Neither Alison nor Izzy have any problem holding their own in a world rich in legacies.
This series can be read on its own or as part of a big volume of adventures, all set in the same Oriceran universe. For example, Alison’s adopted parents, the formidable James Brownstone and Shay, famous bounty hunter and artefact hunter, have their own sets of series (The Unbelievable Mr Brownstone, No Fear and The Codex). And Izzy and Alison will grow up into equally formidable young women, going on to have their own adventures.
The appearances of characters from other series weave a rich and colourful tapestry, made even more enjoyable when the reader is familiar with the series dedicated to them.
Alison Brownstone and Izzy have mysteries to unravel. Alison has secrets, Izzy has a past to remember, and the School of Necessary Magic holds more information than just education in things Oriceran. This is the origin story of two of the many inimitable characters who march through the doors of the school. Neither Alison nor Izzy have any problem holding their own in a world rich in legacies.
This series can be read on its own or as part of a big volume of adventures, all set in the same Oriceran universe. For example, Alison’s adopted parents, the formidable James Brownstone and Shay, famous bounty hunter and artefact hunter, have their own sets of series (The Unbelievable Mr Brownstone, No Fear and The Codex). And Izzy and Alison will grow up into equally formidable young women, going on to have their own adventures.
The appearances of characters from other series weave a rich and colourful tapestry, made even more enjoyable when the reader is familiar with the series dedicated to them.
November 8, 2020
An uneven read
Overall the origin story for Alison Brownstone at the School of Necessary Magic made for some good moments. However much of the text was slow and often redundant. Slow was the mundane interaction with the other students and descriptions of life at the school. Redundant was a repeat for each book (covering each semester for four years) but the Louper games and some of the very predictable mysteries surrounding students and professors. As for the latter several stories did have some interest, like that of the mysterious prof Powell and his connection with headmistress Bierens and the student Izzie and her parents - all very intriguing. The authors did a great job however in narrating the maturity of the central character, setting a clear introduction of her coming into her own as a Drow Princess and the early mastery of her magical powers.
Will now begin to read the second set of the Alison Brownstone series.
Overall the origin story for Alison Brownstone at the School of Necessary Magic made for some good moments. However much of the text was slow and often redundant. Slow was the mundane interaction with the other students and descriptions of life at the school. Redundant was a repeat for each book (covering each semester for four years) but the Louper games and some of the very predictable mysteries surrounding students and professors. As for the latter several stories did have some interest, like that of the mysterious prof Powell and his connection with headmistress Bierens and the student Izzie and her parents - all very intriguing. The authors did a great job however in narrating the maturity of the central character, setting a clear introduction of her coming into her own as a Drow Princess and the early mastery of her magical powers.
Will now begin to read the second set of the Alison Brownstone series.
December 16, 2021
OMG! What a fantastic box set!!!
All 4 years of Allison's high school education at The School of Necessary Magic! With her friends around her and her 1st luv at her side, she gets into some weird situations but always, with the help of her friends and professors she manages to get through. James and Stay make guest appearances here and there. It is truly an outstanding YA series. Any age will enjoy and be drawn in to the stories and they're not over yet. The Allison Brownstone series is out now and I can't wait to see where Allison goes after this! Don't miss this outstanding book! Highly recommended for all ages.
All 4 years of Allison's high school education at The School of Necessary Magic! With her friends around her and her 1st luv at her side, she gets into some weird situations but always, with the help of her friends and professors she manages to get through. James and Stay make guest appearances here and there. It is truly an outstanding YA series. Any age will enjoy and be drawn in to the stories and they're not over yet. The Allison Brownstone series is out now and I can't wait to see where Allison goes after this! Don't miss this outstanding book! Highly recommended for all ages.
February 6, 2022
Such a good series!
While this series is geared for the YA crowd it still tickles me to no end. I thoroughly enjoyed the Leira books and it was great to see her and Yumfuck make a cameo or several throughout the series.
The adventures are enough to keep any reader on the edge of their seat. I found myself wanting more. More info more stories more about the school. By the end I found myself a little bit obsessed with the characters and the world. I was sad to see it end, then found that YES! The stories continue! So if asked, s this series worth the read by adults. I say hell yes!
In the words of my favorite troll, aloha mother fuckers!
While this series is geared for the YA crowd it still tickles me to no end. I thoroughly enjoyed the Leira books and it was great to see her and Yumfuck make a cameo or several throughout the series.
The adventures are enough to keep any reader on the edge of their seat. I found myself wanting more. More info more stories more about the school. By the end I found myself a little bit obsessed with the characters and the world. I was sad to see it end, then found that YES! The stories continue! So if asked, s this series worth the read by adults. I say hell yes!
In the words of my favorite troll, aloha mother fuckers!
September 12, 2022
Fantastic series.
Truly this was a fantastic series in the universe created by Michael and Martha. It may have been a young adult in genre but it was amazing storytelling it kept me going and staying up late and maybe reading when I should’ve been working. It really was that gripping and so much fun to read. I can’t wait to go and see what the next books in this universe hold for me I thoroughly enjoyed everyone that I’ve read and look forward to someday getting all of them read
Truly this was a fantastic series in the universe created by Michael and Martha. It may have been a young adult in genre but it was amazing storytelling it kept me going and staying up late and maybe reading when I should’ve been working. It really was that gripping and so much fun to read. I can’t wait to go and see what the next books in this universe hold for me I thoroughly enjoyed everyone that I’ve read and look forward to someday getting all of them read
October 2, 2020
Couldn’t put it down
I was completely drawn into the story, and had difficulties putting the story down as I walked thru the different attitudes and feelings as I got thru the series. Looking forward to continuing the story. I only have 1 question; the story alludes to a very large pumpkin that Horace grew, but don’t remember if it was ever explained what happened to it. He did like his surprises and secrets!
I was completely drawn into the story, and had difficulties putting the story down as I walked thru the different attitudes and feelings as I got thru the series. Looking forward to continuing the story. I only have 1 question; the story alludes to a very large pumpkin that Horace grew, but don’t remember if it was ever explained what happened to it. He did like his surprises and secrets!
August 27, 2021
Best books I've read!
I don't normally read YA books but I decided to give this set a try and I am so glad that I did. I was unable to put them down and now I'm looking forward to the next set. The characters are wonderful especially Alison and Izzie. The friendship they have will last lifetime. I would tell everyone no matter what your age or gender read this box set. You won't regret it.I give it 5 stars and 👍👍👍👍👍
I don't normally read YA books but I decided to give this set a try and I am so glad that I did. I was unable to put them down and now I'm looking forward to the next set. The characters are wonderful especially Alison and Izzie. The friendship they have will last lifetime. I would tell everyone no matter what your age or gender read this box set. You won't regret it.I give it 5 stars and 👍👍👍👍👍
December 8, 2021
This was alright, Kindle unlimited so that's always good. The authors clearly have potential though sometimes sentences contradict themselves, especially about Alison.
I know that this is set in a whole universe called Oriceren which is another world. So there's a bunch of series set in this universe and I definitely want to read the rest. Also will we get a series with just Izzy, I want to see what she will do in her future,.
I know that this is set in a whole universe called Oriceren which is another world. So there's a bunch of series set in this universe and I definitely want to read the rest. Also will we get a series with just Izzy, I want to see what she will do in her future,.
April 9, 2020
Amazing 🙌 I love this series... What's the next series in regards to Alison and the other friends...
I choose this series because I love books about awesome, amazing Wish it were true. I love reading a series about fun, exciting thrilling stories that you can pretty close to be living while reading it. It's just awesome. Thanks
I choose this series because I love books about awesome, amazing Wish it were true. I love reading a series about fun, exciting thrilling stories that you can pretty close to be living while reading it. It's just awesome. Thanks
April 14, 2020
Great start of what may be a series for the ages!
High school, being different, and a brand new school full of other magical people. What could go wrong? Basically everything and anything for a group of kids of all descriptions and races. And ones you expect to be dark aren't but some are even without knowing it.
High school, being different, and a brand new school full of other magical people. What could go wrong? Basically everything and anything for a group of kids of all descriptions and races. And ones you expect to be dark aren't but some are even without knowing it.
June 19, 2020
Great read
I missed a lot of these. Others I read referred back to incidents in these books so I felt that I almost remembered them but mostly these are new prequels to stories I have read. Once again Michael you have a treasure here! For DLM. The library is of course a major scene in these books.
I missed a lot of these. Others I read referred back to incidents in these books so I felt that I almost remembered them but mostly these are new prequels to stories I have read. Once again Michael you have a treasure here! For DLM. The library is of course a major scene in these books.
July 10, 2023
This is the second time I have read this box set, it was worth the while there were lots of little things I picked on that I had missed the first time round. Great read but I still think that there are a few to many "Louper" games they were a bit repetitive. that is why I I only gave 4 stars. I have now started the Alison Brownstone series for the second time fingers crossed i`ll enjoy it as much as the first.
April 29, 2020
What a ride!
I couldn't put this series down. It's creative, exciting, and full of new plots. I could easily put myself into the story. And it's strong enough to hold your interest, no matter your age. You'll love it.
I couldn't put this series down. It's creative, exciting, and full of new plots. I could easily put myself into the story. And it's strong enough to hold your interest, no matter your age. You'll love it.
June 20, 2020
A really great series
After finishing this series, I want more!!! I started this set totally backwards, and now I am dying to start the series about Alison's parents. Well worth the time you will put in reading it
After finishing this series, I want more!!! I started this set totally backwards, and now I am dying to start the series about Alison's parents. Well worth the time you will put in reading it
September 29, 2020
Eight books covering 4 years of Alison and her friends.
Young adult characters learn magic and life lessons together. Set in the Oriceran Universe this series does have some continuity errors. It also has lots of creatures, adventures, and ethical dilemmas.
Young adult characters learn magic and life lessons together. Set in the Oriceran Universe this series does have some continuity errors. It also has lots of creatures, adventures, and ethical dilemmas.
October 11, 2020
Good Read
Liked the story that had well made characters, good world building, magic, friendship, mayhem and romance. Was a little disappointed that some of the story jumped to something else and that Izzy was not featured more when she is definitely one of the main characters.
Liked the story that had well made characters, good world building, magic, friendship, mayhem and romance. Was a little disappointed that some of the story jumped to something else and that Izzy was not featured more when she is definitely one of the main characters.
January 1, 2021
Awesome series
I simply couldn’t stop reading this.. 8 books, almost non stop. It might be meant for young readers, but this senior has thoroughly enjoyed it. I definitely recommend it.
I simply couldn’t stop reading this.. 8 books, almost non stop. It might be meant for young readers, but this senior has thoroughly enjoyed it. I definitely recommend it.
February 19, 2021
Review
Great story, but on to read more books. For as long as I live I will read every day. This was not only forthe young it is for he old folks trying to remembsr what was. Keep up the good work. Thank You.
Great story, but on to read more books. For as long as I live I will read every day. This was not only forthe young it is for he old folks trying to remembsr what was. Keep up the good work. Thank You.
October 31, 2021
Buy it, borrow it now!!
Absolutely wonderful story from start to finish! I broken my reading record easily because I haven't out this series down until it was finished! If there is one thing you do in your life please read this series you will not regret it!!!
Absolutely wonderful story from start to finish! I broken my reading record easily because I haven't out this series down until it was finished! If there is one thing you do in your life please read this series you will not regret it!!!
June 22, 2022
half finished young adult read
It’s like the author has ADHD, the chapters are all half done or 3/4 with no finish. They start a task but don’t ever finish it and it gets very annoying. It’s like reading a bunch of half fished novellas that have been put together.
It’s like the author has ADHD, the chapters are all half done or 3/4 with no finish. They start a task but don’t ever finish it and it gets very annoying. It’s like reading a bunch of half fished novellas that have been put together.
January 11, 2023
School of necessary magic boss set
This was a great read. There are so many twists and turns trying to save the school from the darkness. Now it's time to move to Allison brownstone boss set2. Move this author
This was a great read. There are so many twists and turns trying to save the school from the darkness. Now it's time to move to Allison brownstone boss set2. Move this author
May 12, 2023
Dark is Her Nature
4 stars
Bright is Her Sight
4 stars
Wary is Her Love
4 stars
Strong is Her Hope
4 stars
Wicked is Her Smile
4 stars
Strange is Her Life
3 stars
Determined is Her Path
3 stars
Epic is Her Future
4 stars
4 stars
Bright is Her Sight
4 stars
Wary is Her Love
4 stars
Strong is Her Hope
4 stars
Wicked is Her Smile
4 stars
Strange is Her Life
3 stars
Determined is Her Path
3 stars
Epic is Her Future
4 stars
February 1, 2024
Great read
Another great series from the Oriceran universe! Alison really comes into her abilities through this series. Izzie and the other friends grow a lot as well and it's cool to go through high school with them all.
Another great series from the Oriceran universe! Alison really comes into her abilities through this series. Izzie and the other friends grow a lot as well and it's cool to go through high school with them all.
April 12, 2025
Very entertaining
I enjoyed this book bundle. Tons of action and magic. Great characters with a lot of different talents. No graphic sexual content and nothing to gory. Great for all ages.
I enjoyed this book bundle. Tons of action and magic. Great characters with a lot of different talents. No graphic sexual content and nothing to gory. Great for all ages.
March 28, 2020
Exciting adventures
Loved these books - characters grew and expanded with each book.looking forward to Alison coming in to her full powers.
Loved these books - characters grew and expanded with each book.looking forward to Alison coming in to her full powers.
May 5, 2020
Love this series.
I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys reading 📚. Enjoy reading and getting lost in the story line.
I would recommend this book for anyone who enjoys reading 📚. Enjoy reading and getting lost in the story line.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews