Stormwind of Shadows

Wicked Academia #2

by Jasmine Jenkins, Sophie Suliman

The Greywicks may have survived their first trials, but more dangers await at the Celestial Academy for Fallen Stars. As the triplets attend classes and learn more about the star magic inside of them, they realize that no student or professor can be trusted. Not even the castle walls are safe.

Vivian’s condition worsens, but she finds herself drawn to the arms of Prince Darius. But it’s not just her secret that may tear them apart, but his: a secret that not only threatens their love, but her life.

Marion struggles to accept her place as a Lost Star, unable to control the magic within. Despite throwing herself into solving the mysteries around the castle, Marion’s destiny is determined to claim her… whether she is willing or not. She could find help from the enigmatic Khalid Ali Bagheeri, but only if she can learn to trust him.

And Timothée, now a Dark Star, finds himself feared and hated by the rest of his classmates. Desperate to escape the same fate that befell his brother, Timothée seeks solace in his cold and unforgiving roommate, Valentine Sun. Timothée must discover if heroes can be heartless and if villains can save the world.

All the while, a new terror emerges, threatening to tear down the very foundation of which the Celestial Church is built…

One of the Greywicks will become a monster. The other, a queen. The last, a god.

Anything is possible at the Celestial Academy for Fallen Stars.

Wicked Academia: Lost Stars is a new adult fantasy romance. It has magic, adventure, swoon-worthy romance, and steam!

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Fiction, Paranormal, LGBT, School, Science Fiction Fantasy

352 pages, Paperback

Published August 23, 2022

About the author

Jasmine Jenkins and Sophie Suliman are sisters who write new adult fantasy. They live in British Columbia, Canada. They love telling stories full of magic, adventure, and romance. When not writing, you can find them exploring the beautiful forests of their home, playing Dungeons & Dragons, or connecting with their amazing readers on social media.

Reviews

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Stormwind of shadows —> 10/10 ✨

- THIS REVIEW IS FROM AN ARC COPY -

I fucking love this book. I know what they say about second parts being the worst, but this installment for me solidified Wicked Academia as one of the best na fantasy saga in the market right now. If lost stars offered a peek into the world and plot, then stormwind of shadows really consolidates it. Sexy romance, danger around the corner and its fascinating characters made me a die hard fan. Also, I have so many theories for the future of this books! You can tell there are little easter eggs planted here and there for the fans to pick up and investigate, which for me is really fun to do. SPOILERS AHEAD!

I am CONVINCED Val and the Prophet of stars are the same person. Think about it: he has a strange fascination with Noctis and Tim, refuses to call him by his name and from the books you can tell he’s heartbroken. Who broke his precious heart? Noctis. And by the way, this is fundated not only in canon BUT the Valentine’s Day playlists of the characters the authors released. Val and the Prophet have identical songs! If that’s not an Easter egg, then I don’t know what is.

Because all of this Stormwind of shadows is a solid 10/10, no complaints, no issues, fantastic, brilliant and so soooooo addictive. I can’t wait for the third installment.

[Betty Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

(Review from ARC)

🇬🇧
After I finished the first book, I was so into this world that I needed the second part asap, so I was beyond thrilled when I received the ARC.

In the first book, I was completely enthralled by the story of each and everyone of the characters. I found the book so whimsical, magical, and even unique, and that made me love the world they created. Also, it has a really good magic system, what else does it need?

In this one, I still loved the characters but for a reason I wasn’t as hooked as in the previous one. It might have been the fact that I was busier and couldn’t read as much as I wanted, or simply that I was expecting more action since the very beginning, and it wasn’t until the second part that I got it.
I would have loved to find some of my questions solved by the ending of this one, and a little bit more of depth regarding the academia stuff, after all it was what drew my attention at first.

With all that in mind, I have to say that, overall, I did enjoy this book and I am waiting for the third installment of the saga.


🇪🇸

Después de terminar el primer libro, estaba tan enganchada al mundo que lo único que sabía era que necesitaba la segunda parte asap. así que me puse contentísima cuando recibí el ARC.

En el primer libro, estaba completamente enamorada de la historia de cada uno de los personajes. El libro me resultó tan mágico, maravilloso y único que me hizo amar el mundo que habían creado. Además, tiene un sistema de magia muy bien explicado, ¿qué más necesita?

En este segundo, he seguido amando a los personajes, pero por algún motivo no estaba tan enganchada como en el otro. Puede haber sido el hecho de que estaba muy muy ocupada y no podía leer tanto como me habría gustado, o que simplemente estaba esperando encontrar acción desde el principio, y no es hasta la segunda mitad que empieza a haber.

Me habría gustado también que alguna de las preguntas que tenía hubieran encontrado respuesta al final, y tal vez un poco más de profundidad en la parte de la academia, que es, a fin de cuentas, lo que me llamó la atención desde el primer momento.

Con todo esto dicho, tengo q decir que, en general, sí que he disfrutado de este libro, y estoy deseando que salga el 3º.

[chemofprocrastination (Mariana) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ out of 5
(I requested an ARC and was granted one. This is still my honest opinion.)
I decided to round the rating to 4 ⭐️ out of respect for the second half of the book.
What can I say about this book? The things I wish were improved weren’t. This doesn’t has to be negative, I enjoy the first book and had as much fun with the second. However, them being in a magical university and adults: sometimes that doesn’t cross the page. I believe Chapter 26 and 34 had the best writing and Timothée and Valentine’s storyline was the only one who was actually improved and developed in the most interesting and captivating way.
I am disappointed (in a way) we still barely got any answer for all of the questions raised by book one - the vampire stuff, Timothée’s magic, the conflict between Darius, Khalid and Carmilla’s families…
The pacing for the first half of the book could have been better.
As I said and will say again: TIMOTHÉE AND VALENTINE CARRIED THIS BOOK ♥️♥️♥️♥️ AHAHAHA WHEN I THINK OF ENEMIES TO LOVERS??? This is what I am talking about. Literally congratulations for their storyline because it is actually pretty good and their chemistry and character work and dynamic are as well.
I need to reflect upon the book as I just finished it but I can say that I would continue with this series. Meanwhile, I do believe some aspects of it have to change to keep us invested in the story.

[Emma Juhala · Rating 5 out of 5]

[REVIEW FROM ARC COPY]

I was granted early access to the book in exchange for an honest review. Despite my temptation to talk about specific plot points, I have kept this review SPOILER FREE

I enjoyed this book FAR more than I did the first. Where book 1 takes time introducing the characters, setting, and magic, book 2 is where the plot really takes off and develops.

Below are a few reasons I rated the book 5 stars:

Unpredictability

Something I greatly appreciate in the book is its unpredictability. I don’t like figuring things out early on. It’s more fun to be wrong and get slapped in the face with the unexpected truth. I could try to piece together all the cryic lines and foreshadowing, but there was always a piece of information missing.
This is likely due to how untrustworthy all the supporting characters can be. As the trio learn more about the academy, I found myself better understanding Marion’s mistrust towards the Celestial Academy. In fact, it’s hard to trust what any of the supporting cast says, as it feels like everyone has their own personal agenda or knows more than they’re letting on.

Magic System

This applies to book 1 too but it's interesting to have the starlings rely on starlight to perform magic, effectively leaving them vulnerable during the daytime. It brings more value to characters who have applied skills that don't require magic. I like that it's something new that I, personally, have not read in a book before

Characters

I liked having a large cast of characters, all with interesting personalities, values, and motives. We spend more time with the side characters in book 2 and can get more emotionally invested in their lives.

Romance (18+)

The romance scenes were really well written. They didn't feel awkward or make me cringe at any time, which is pretty fantastic if you ask me.

I like how the 18+ scenes were not all absurdly ranchy. The characters haven't known each other for a long time, so it was great to see smut scenes that seemed to be written accordingly. (That's not to there isn't still a great deal of passion between the characters). I applaud the authors for how well they can write an 18+ scene without the characters having to go all the way.

Overall, I LOVED reading Stormwind of Shadows. It kept me on my toes asking questions (some answers I have figured out, some I have not). I rate books on Goodreads based on enjoyability. In other words, I don't care if a book has common tropes, clichés, or fancy literary writing. I care about if it was fun and interesting and exciting, and it TOTALLY WAS. I'd recommend this as an enjoyable and easy-to-read series.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the ARC version, and now I am giving an honest review! I was so excited for this book to come out after reading the first one! While the first book was more slow paced in order to world build and introduce the characters, this book gets straight into the plot! Warning: Some spoilers?

First, I love the distinct personalities of each of the characters! Every character is so different. I loved reading the interactions with all of the characters -- how their personalities intertwine with each other to create such complex relationships. What I have learned in this book -- I apparently can't trust any of the supporting characters haha! The most trustworthy characters seems to have secrets and motivations of their own concerning the Greywick twins, and perhaps, the villians of this story might not so evil after all. Lastly, I loved the character development for both Timothée and Darius the most! Darius really plays on the "typical hero" trope, but he has a corrupted sense of justice which I will be interested to see how that will play out with Vivian.

Second, the magic system in this book is so unique. As far as I know, I have never heard of a magic system based off of stars! Plus, I like the fact that there are characters who do not have magic but are still so powerful! Can't wait to see what future powers the Greywick siblings will gain as they become more experienced.

Third, I always appreciate a romance element to fantasy books! The romance is done quite well in the book. At first, I was concerned how some relationships seemed to be instantiated so quickly, but this book lends clues to why feelings came to the surface (or appeared to) so quickly for some characters.

Now, for some improvements? I do wish this book had more answers about certain things -- such as Vivian being a vampire, Khalid's true intentions, how Noctis and Timothée are connected (and I mean beyond the sibling relationship), etc. I think there could be some more focus on the classes and other activities that the siblings will participate in? Lastly, I do feel the most action is kept towards the end of the book -- which is not wholly negative, but I would like to see more action in the middle of the book as well!

That being said, I am still giving the book a 5 stars. I still liked it, and I assume a lot more will happen in Book 3! So can't wait!

[Olivia Panzica · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to the wonderful authors for my ARC. Stormwind and Shadows is a fun and multilayered story, further building upon the triplet's story, as well as their godly heritage.

What I loved:

-The characters are all so well defined and unique and I care about literally all of them.
-Timothee! Sweet boy deserves everything!
-Timothee and Val's storyline
-The interweaving of the past lives of the Gods into the present of the triplets.
-Any scenes that explore the students in the Dark Star House.

What Could be improved:

I loved the first novel "Lost Stars" and found it to be so whimsical and unique. Somehow, a lot of that whimsicalness that drew me in got lost in this novel. Any time I read a story about a magic school, I want the authors to fully immerse me and allow me to feel like I am a student. Unfortunately, I never got this feeling. Outside of some beautiful descriptions of the castle, there was never enough time dedicated to the school or the classes to make it stand out. I'm all for character-driven stories, however, in a magical school, more time needs to be dedicated to the setting and how it influences the protagonists.

My other criticism is the ending. The attack felt like it came out of nowhere, and was also very underwhelming. I don't know what else to say except I'd expect a magical university to be a little more secure.

Overall Thoughts:

I enjoyed Stormwind and Shadows, however, I wish this book would take its time, like the first book. Allow us readers to be immersed in what makes the school whimsical and wonderful. I'm looking forward to the next books in the series <3

[Bree · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

First of all, I want to say that this was an excellent follow-up to Lost Stars. I knew the second installation of the triplets' story would keep us on our toes. I usually have a sixth sense when it comes to where the plot of a book is going, but I can honestly say that I was not expecting the awaited us at the Academy. Some spoilers ahead; you've been warned.

The relationship development between the Greywicks and the respective lost interests makes me want to jump up and down and throw the book against the wall. My most significant prediction for book three is that Tim and Val are the reincarnations of Noctis and The Prophet of Stars. The similarities between the two couples cannot be a coincidence. Next up, Marion and Khalid; ugh, the tension but the best kind of tension, and I am requesting that we see much more of them in the next book. Finally, Viv and Darius a true testament to the notion that letting go of someone you love may be the best thing for you. Since the beginning of book one, we've seen these two together. I am excited to see how they act apart. I'm hoping Viviane will become stronger because of this decision.

The voice of the castle has me on the fence about its intentions. While it can be argued that this whole "Welcome your monster, feed your monster, and emulate your monster" has me leaning towards bad. However, I feel like there is more we are not seeing, but for the life of me, I cannot narrow down what that is. The closest conclusion I can come to is that the castle is preparing them for whatever comes next, which begs the larger question of how a castle knows what's coming.

I am anxiously waiting for book three.

[Skye Mason-Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky to get an ARC of this book, and oh my god I’m so happy I did.

This book was AMAZING, I enjoyed it far more than the first one. Now that the character and world introductions are over and the plot can really pick up, it was easy to sit and finish this in one go, I’m so sad I finished it so fast and have to wait for the next one now, but I have no regrets.

I’m such an impatient person, and I NEED to know what happens next. I’m fully on the train that Val and The Dark Prophet are the same person, but I cannot wait for more details on the connection between Tim and Noctis, and the story behind the name Morbis.

I’m not entirely sure if I trust Khalid and what he has up his sleeve, but his character dynamic with Marion is to DIE for, and I’m really hoping to see more from their evolving relationship in the next book.

Overall this book was a 5/5, and I’m so excited to see what comes next.

[Nicole Adams · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed this about as much as I enjoyed the first. It’s a solid read. I really like how the characters are developing and changing. I still adore Tim and his relationship with Val is fascinating. Viv is interesting too, with her struggles of being a vampire. I feel like Marion’s character in this story didn’t get as much screen time as the others. I really love the inclusion of the artwork, but I can feel the story becoming a bit predictable. I like it, but I’m not loving it as much I thought it would.

[Samantha McComas · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the first one, and was hoping the second picked up a little quicker to keep my interest. I was not disappointed. There is enough uncertainty and plot twists that make you need to know what happens next. I rarely find myself sympathizing with the villains.... but it's not so easy to distinguish who is good or evil, so I end up loving them all (almost all). Looking forward to the next one!

[Danielle Jolie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! So much character development and character interactions! I won’t spoil anything in this review, so this review may seem pretty vague. I really grew attached to the characters throughout this book, Timothée specifically. I feel like they’re all growing a lot and this book really focused on that. The action scenes were so intense and kept me on my toes. Even the downtime in this book made me want to keep going. Sometimes, a book will get boring if there is too much downtime, but the pacing was perfect, and the downtime actually helped me understand the characters more. I am so grateful to have been given an ARC of this book, and I can’t wait to read the next one!

[Janelle Doucet · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loves this book! I havent found a series that captivated my attention like this for a long time. If you love Vampires, Magical schools, Gods and love this is for you. Highly recommend this series. I cannot wait for book 3

[Amber · Rating 5 out of 5]

[REVIEW FROM ARC COPY]

Once again, could not put this book down! I love love loved the first Wicked Academia book and the way the ending was just thrown upon you. This book had beautiful story- telling all throughout and I so appreciated the complex personalities and histories each of the main characters brought to the story.
Nothing felt out of place and the pacing of the book was just *chef's kiss*.

[Pauline · Rating 5 out of 5]

📜 I had the chance to get this book early, after reading the E-ARC of the first one and was so excited to get this new ARC.

First of all here's the blurb 💫

The Greywicks may have survived their first trials, but more dangers await at the Celestial Academy for Fallen Stars. As the triplets attend classes and learn more about the star magic inside of them, they realize that no student or professor can be trusted. Not even the castle walls are safe.

Vivian’s condition worsens, but she finds herself drawn to the arms of Prince Darius. But it’s not just her secret that may tear them apart, but his: a secret that not only threatens their love, but her life.

Marion struggles to accept her place as a Lost Star, unable to control the magic within. Despite throwing herself into solving the mysteries around the castle, Marion’s destiny is determined to claim her… whether she is willing or not. She could find help from the enigmatic Khalid Ali Bagheeri, but only if she can learn to trust him.

And Timothée, now a Dark Star, finds himself feared and hated by the rest of his classmates. Desperate to escape the same fate that befell his brother, Timothée seeks solace in his cold and unforgiving roommate, Valentine Sun. Timothée must discover if heroes can be heartless and if villains can save the world.

All the while, a new terror emerges, threatening to tear down the very foundation of which the Celestial Church is built…

One of the Greywicks will become a monster. The other, a queen. The last, a god.

Anything is possible at the Celestial Academy for Fallen Stars.

Wicked Academia: Lost Stars is a new adult fantasy romance. It has magic, adventure, swoon-worthy romance, and steam!

Now to the review 🔎

This book did not disappoint, you got characters developments, actions scenes, love and steamy scenes, schemes and plot building, new characters, romance, everything. You will not be bored, that's for sure.

The writing is addictive with each page you turn, you don't want to stop. You want to learn more to discover about the academy and those little starlings.

I have said it before but will again : the character are relatable, I found that they were not the typical "chosen one" ready to embrace their destiny, they are not just brave and ready for adventure. Their flaws are visible and sometime you're a coward and you can't do thing and really it's truly amazing to be able to read about that. So I think, Sophie and Jasmine did a great job with the triplets and everyone you can truly understand their habits and I think there is a character for everyone and every taste. And with that second book we see them grow accept who they are.

I will give it a 5/5 ⭐, this book was even more addictive than the first one because it was a more dark and grey for the characters.

A big thank to Jasmine Jenkins and Sophie Suliman for this book and sending it to me early in exchange for a review.

[ReadWithKate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sequel doesn't disappoint! The Greywick siblings are back and have to face more dangers than ever, as the line between friend and enemy starts bluring together.
Vivian is going through a lot, but she learns that she can't change for someone else, especially Darius, because he plans on killing every vampire ever. I was very sad that they separated, but I understand that it was the best for them! I hope he learns to let go of his prejudice and stars seeing that not all vampires are evil!
Marion finally accepts she's a Starling and a child of the gods! I really enjoyed her scenes, especially the one where she gains control of her power! She's an amazing character and quite the inspiration!
Khalid is playing a dangerous game, and if he loses, he loses everything. He's quite deceitful, and honestly, I'm not sure he actually cares about Marion. After all, he admitted that he only cares about people's usefulness, so he's probably using her.
Carmilla is also involved in this game, having decided to replace Val with Tim. I'm very curious about what she plans to do next! It's obvious that both their plans have to do with their homelands being conquered by Darius' father, making them lose their freedom and their thrones, but it's still too early to have the full picture, which leaves me even more excited to find out more about them!
Timothée also has quite the journey along with Val! Both of them are outcasts, due to being Dark Stars ( it was quite sad reading about the discrimination Timmy faced for this, even his sisters took their time to accept his magic!). To add, both of them have a startling similarity to Noctis and The Prophet of Stars! Are they their reincarnations or simply a mirror from the past? I can't wait to find out!
I must admit, I'm starting to think that maybe the Dark Prophet is Vivian's best shot at getting better pr accepting her life as a vampire! I'm quite worried for her since pretty much everyone at the academy hates vampires.
I loved this book, so I reccomend it 100%! I'm super excited for the sequel!

Tw: sexual content, death, violence, blood.

[audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off this book is just magnificent! I remember when i was first reading the first book of the series i was instantly captivated by the characters and world. and after i finished the first the second was a must. i received my online copy of the second book yesterday and just finished it today and i have to say the amount of romance, surprises and magic surprised me.

I have to say that the romance in the book was much more than i expected but i can’t say that it’s a bad thing. but a very good thing, i was worried that the romance might have been played down in the second book instead it went way above my expectations. also timothee and val, i must admit i wasn’t super interested of them at first but after that dance, i am a fan. marion and ali i hope the best for them but i just don’t like marion that much and she my least favorite triplet by a long shot. finally darius and vivian my favorite couple of the series. the fact that she is a vampire and darius literally talks about how he hates them and kills them is grating on my nerves. like viv just tell him and get it over with. anyway i do love them and their blue ribbons even if they make me rip my hair out sometimes.

the plot of this book is emaculant. the dark prophet and the dance were made to be major plot points even though they take course of a small moment of time. also i am totally on the train that val is the dark prophet. like it makes sense, the weird obsession with noctis and timothee and how he is weirdly amazing at using shadow craft. it all adds up.

anyway that’s the end of my review

[RosesandSundragons16 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wicked Academia #2: Stormwind of Shadows is getting 5 / 5 Stars from me.

I want to thank Jasmine Jenkins, Sophie Suliman, and Luna Fox Press for giving me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I would like to apologize for my lateness in uploading this post. I currently have a backlog of books and reviews I am trying to get through.

Themes, Tropes, & Warnings: New Adult Fiction, Fantasy, Romance, LGBTQ+, Multiple POVs, Enemies to Lovers; Graphic Violence, Murder, Blood, Explicit Sexual Content, War, Discrimination, Prejudice, Bullying, Hatred, Attempted Non-Con, Magic, Secret Society, Vampires, Fear of Losing Control, Mythical Beasts, Living Castle.

Thoughts: Wicked Academia 2: Stormwind of Shadows follows the Greywick triplets as they officially start their new lives as students of the Celestial Academy for Fallen Stars. Between going to classes, making new friends, figuring out their powers, searching for the truth behind their father, and a mysterious voice that comes from the castle they now call home, what could go wrong?

The second book in the series takes the momentum built up in the first and blows your expectations out of the park. It’s wild, adventurous, emotional, mysterious, romantic, and hopeful. Everyone has a secret to hide inside the academy, secrets that could very well have the foundation crumbling, and as pressure mounts, it is only a matter of time before it all comes boiling over.

Reviewed under RosesandSundragons16 @ Amazon, Goodreads, Instagram, and StoryGraph.

[GiulianaCM · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

In this second volume, we were able to appreciate the things that already captivated us in the first volume, but in more depth. When it comes to books, I find that depth is something very important to me, be it of the characters, locations, world building, etc. This book did not disappoint me.

I was really happy to read it and explore the pieces of lore, like a puzzle I, as a reader, was expected to pick up on and solve. The magic system becomes clearer the more we get information about the gods and the world history. It is truly exquisite and captivating.

Also, the characters are way more developed in this volume than in the first one, which I was really happy to read. The character development and growth is fantastic, and made me relate more and more to their journey. We get to see how each different character think, and what are their fears and priorities in this new stage of their lives.

The descriptions are the last piece of what I consider essential to create the proper environment. I could feel the magic sewing its way through the lines, and giving life to this amazing castle/school that's so alive.

Reading this was truly an amazing experience, and I cannot wait to read what's coming next. This story is great, and it has the potential to become even more.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a bit late with this ARC review I know. Just hear me out. I was in a horrible reading slump and just like the last time it happened, this book yanked me out of it. This novel took me on an entire journey- the lectures(which was one of the things I anticipated reading the most in this book), delving deeper into the magic system, emotions ranging from happiness to annoyance to butterflies-in-my-stomach to S.T.F.U…the whole ride.
I'm a bit of a coward so I get anxious when things seem uncertain and loyalties are unclear. When secrets aren’t revealed when they ought to be. It makes me worry for the future and I'm okay with that ...perfectly fine really...no need to worry about me. There were times I'd read a scene and wonder what could be going through the minds of those characters at that point in time because my thoughts would be running in so many directions and it's that curiosity that the books evoke that makes me so enthralled by it.
The writing style is so simple yet so beautiful and it brings me joy to know that I don't have to be very artistic or masterful to write something that people will love to read. And boy that extra chapter...loved it. I'd recommend this book to anyone who enjoys reading books where they believe they've only just finished chapter 1 only to discover that they've reached chapter 5.

[Hails · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stormwind of Shadows picks up right where Lost Stars left us. The Greywick siblings have swallowed their stars and are finally attending classes at the Academy. Of course, nothing is quite that simple and they find themselves in many unexplainable situations, especially Tim (of course it’s Timothée). While they thought coming to the Celestial Academy would help answer all their questions, it definitely seems that we end this book with more questions than answers about Vivian’s secret, their history, and Tim’s connection to the darkness.

Stormwind of Shadows has steamy enemies to lovers, a spooky All Hallows Eve ball, and so many scheming characters. I cannot get enough of Timothée and Val together (IYKYK) and I have so many theories about their tense relationship. I’m still WAITING for more Khalid and Marion steam. Hopefully the next book will take us there, though after reading the bonus chapter from Khalid’s POV…I’m questioning everything!

This is a solid 4/5 star read for me! I am absolutely in love with this web series turned traditionally published books. While that does mean the writing style and flow of the book differs from other books, it is such an enjoyable story to become immersed in.

[Georgia Husselbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

I adored the first instalment of Wicked Academia so when I had the chance to read the second book it was an immediate yes. The stakes for the Greywicks are even higher in this one, as they’ve successfully completed their first trial at the Academy.

‘We might stab each other in the back a little, but we’re family all the same.’

It’s hard to tell who to trust in this book as everyone seems to be keeping secrets. Each sibling is learning to master the magic that comes with their star. Timothee is a Dark Star and has to room with Val, the boy who went into the trial with him. Val seems to resent Timothee, but there is a lot of tension between these two and I loved the way this developed over the course of the novel and I cannot wait to see it develop more in the next book!

‘That’s the problem, darling. That dance has ruined me for all other dances. It’s you in my arms or nothing.’

Vivian is still a vampire, but now Khalid also knows, which comes in handy at various points throughout the novel, as she struggles with controlling her fangs. Prince Darius is determined to exterminate every vampire in existence to avenge his family, so this does not bode well for their growing relationship. Marion and Khalid’s relationship is full of tension that I just needed more content from them. I suppose that’s what you get when you read a book with multiple perspectives!

‘I’ll fight it for you, brother. I’ll fill the world with light if I have to.’

I don’t want to say much more so as not to spoil but these siblings have to come together to understand their powers, whilst one is almost greatly feared by their classmates. I can’t wait for the next book as I am desperate to see what happens to these three next! If you love magic boarding schools filled with romance and adventure then this series is for you!

*Thank you to the authors for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.*

[Tim · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm going to keep this brief.

Just like with the first book, I did have some difficulties with it. Mostly, I have to admit I'm not so sure anymore about Carmilla - is she good or wicked...? She was my favourite before, but now I'm getting a bit more hesitant...
Secondly, after a relatively calm Book 1 regarding the action, I had assumed there would be happening more in Stormwind of Shadows, but that isn't really the case. The first two-thirds are just more mysteries and the triplets trying to get a grip on them; it's only after the ball that things get really exciting.

The rest was fun, though - the characters, the mysteries, the world, the banter.

But I don't feel like writing a long review and delve deeper into the book, because I've just read that there won't be a Book 3 in the foreseeable future due to the first two books not raising enough money (they are, indeed, self-published). And, if I'm being honest, I can't see that changing - this is just how it usually goes with self-published books, they're hardly read. So since I doubt there will ever come a Book 3, I don't see the point in wasting my time why this is, in fact, a good series. Because that's the most important thing: To me, it is.

8.2/10

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, thank you so much to Sophie & Jasmine for giving me the chance to read an arc of this wonderful book! I'm so excited for the book's release tomorrow (Aug 23)!!
Once again the Greywick siblings have my entire heart. Picking up right we’re Lost Stars left off, Stormwind of Shadows is just as magical, chaotic, and adventurous as book 1. Since the Greywick’s are now at the Celestial Academy we get to see a lot more of them with Darius, Khalid, Valentine and some other new faces I’ve grown to quickly love. I can’t decided if I’m more invested in Marion and Khalid’s storyline or Timothée and Val’s storyline. Not to discount Vivian and Darius’s storyline, but I’m a total sucker for enemies to potential lovers(?) so I’m liking the dynamic of the two other storylines slightly more. Getting to see the Siblings branch out from staying tied together is so interesting to witness as they’re each in a different house at the academy. But all 3 Greywick’s have certainly been meeting some interesting new people while they find their place the new environment. Of course no one can ever be completely trusted so there’s always an element of suspense in the writing. And once again I am in love with all the illustrations throughout, and they always fit so perfectly with the scene and how I’m imagining it. I found that there were so many surprising moments that I didn’t see coming which kept things interesting the whole time.
There was a scene at the end with a certain character, who I won’t name as to not spoil anything, who did something I expect really hard for them but will be good for them in the end and I was beyond proud for them making that decision. Also very curious to see what happens with the actions that are taken because of that decision in future books.
The whole ending just in general was so chaotic and entertaining ad left on the perfect cliffhanger. I’m so excited to see what they Greywick’s and their friends? Classmates? Fellow Students? Get up to next!

[Kimmy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Is the writing good? No. Are the characters well developed? Not really. Is the plot good? Nope. Did I still enjoy the book? Yeah. Will I spend my money and read the next one? Probably. I went into this book pretty excited to get into the story going since the first book felt so much like a prequel, but this book didn’t really give anything new. There was a little bit more to the plot, but I think the authors just kind of forgot where they were at. Like, do we no longer care about learning about the vampires? Are we not trying to figure out who the bad guy is and what he wants? So many questions. And if people read the book for the spice, they would be certainly disappointed (a half a chili pepper at best). Overall the book was fun if you don’t think about it too much. And like I said, I’ll be reading the next book since I feel kinda invested now and am hoping the story gets better.

[BrokeReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good, I can’t even word it properly. And that, even though there’s nothing (apart from reading) I enjoy more than writing. I’ve read both the free web novel chapters (alright, ‘devoured’ might be better suited) and the first book, so I expected it to be good, but wow. This was even better than I anticipated. It was more fast-paced than the first book, but that still didn’t make the individual scenes any less, well, detailed. I generally deem a book as good if it manages to pull you in. Like almost literally. I actually ended up dreaming about Thraina and the Academy. The only bad part about it is that we now have to wait for the third book.
In conclusion: I am hooked.

[Erika Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited to receive an ARC of this book and this review is purely my own. I fell in love with the first book of this series and the second book did not disappoint at all. I loved it! The storyline picks up right where the first left off. It was great to see the siblings grow more into themselves and I am so curious about the true motivations of other characters. So safe to say I am fully invested and cannot wait to see what else is in store for them! Looking forward to the third book already!

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you for the ARC.

This book was just as much fun as the first. The artwork is great, the world feels familiar yet new. I feel I got to know the characters a lot more, and I still kept wanting more. My only honest feedback is the school doesn't read like a post-secondary environment but more like highschool.

Why I give this book five stars because it allowed me to escape the stresses of my day and didn't feel like I was reading but experiencing this world with the characters.

I'm looking forward to book three Frozen Blood.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Addictively fun and binge worthy. This book is so easy to read and enjoy. Filled to the brim with every trope imaginable, it’s predictable but you still enjoy the journey. There’s interesting character relationships and plot but it focuses on the tropes and feelings (think Harry Potter meets shadow and bone meets spice). Of course there are flaws that one could point out but this isn’t a book to be read under a critical eye. It’s one to experience and have fun with. I would absolutely recommend this and will be excitedly waiting for the next one in the series

[Paula lily]

I have received an eArc of this book and I'm leaving the review voluntarily.

As the first book, this one lacked depth. The plot I couldn't say it entertained me much, honestly our boi Timmy and Val had the most engaging story. I dunno I whished there were more revelations. Like we could have learned something new about the characters legit, any of them would do. It just feels like the plot is brewing but without any real end point. I mean sure it's hinted that each of the siblings have a bigger purpose but so far there is not enough world building.

[kierstin belt · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

This was absolutely fantastic.
Just like the first book in this series, I was hooked from page 1 and didn’t want this book to end.
I need more with these characters ASAP.
I adore this whimsical fantasy world and I’m always down for a magical boarding school setting.
The romances in this installment were absolutely amazing (I definitely squealed at moments).
I cannot wait to dive into more with these characters and learn more about the world.
I have sooo many theories and I need the next book right now!!!

Such a fun time, definitely one of my favorites of the year!