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Lessons in Loyalty - Aphrodite & Adonis (Academy of Villains #2) by Ever King
Lyla Stark, a mage at the Academy of Magic and guardian of the golden apples, is about to learn that in the kingdom of Ithaka, nothing is as it seems. And when a Heartstring binds her to Bastian Lightcroft, his darkest secrets will shatter everything she thought she knew about magic, loyalty, and love itself.
Rating: *****
Feels: Anticipation, Adoration, Intrigue, Warmth
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, Magic Academia, Magic
Fi ...more
Lyla Stark, a mage at the Academy of Magic and guardian of the golden apples, is about to learn that in the kingdom of Ithaka, nothing is as it seems. And when a Heartstring binds her to Bastian Lightcroft, his darkest secrets will shatter everything she thought she knew about magic, loyalty, and love itself.
Rating: *****
Feels: Anticipation, Adoration, Intrigue, Warmth
Style: Fantasy, Romantasy, Magic Academia, Magic
Fi ...more
A Heartstring That Binds Readers From Page One 💫
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (5/5 Stars)
Genre:
Dark Academia Romantasy
Mythology:
Adonis & Aphrodite
Tropes:
Fated Mates, Enemies to Lovers, Secret Societies, Grumpy x Sunshine
Ever King has completely outdone herself with this second Academy of Villains installment! Just when I thought nothing could top the first book, along comes Lyla and Bastian's story to prove me absolutely wrong. This Adonis and Aphrodite retelling is pure magic ✨
The Good:
- Chemistry that crackles ...more
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 (5/5 Stars)
Genre:
Dark Academia Romantasy
Mythology:
Adonis & Aphrodite
Tropes:
Fated Mates, Enemies to Lovers, Secret Societies, Grumpy x Sunshine
Ever King has completely outdone herself with this second Academy of Villains installment! Just when I thought nothing could top the first book, along comes Lyla and Bastian's story to prove me absolutely wrong. This Adonis and Aphrodite retelling is pure magic ✨
The Good:
- Chemistry that crackles ...more
my rating: ★★★★.5
aesthetic: 🦋🌸🗝️🍃💀🥀💫📓🏛️🎀
Lessons in Loyalty is a powerful, immersive sequel that not only builds on the magical chaos of book one, but deepens it with emotional intensity, layered storytelling, and standout mythological integration.
What truly sets this installment apart is the intricate weaving of Greek mythology retellings. The lore is handled with both reverence and creative freedom, reimagining familiar gods, legends, and curses in ways that feel fresh and unpredictable. Every ...more
aesthetic: 🦋🌸🗝️🍃💀🥀💫📓🏛️🎀
Lessons in Loyalty is a powerful, immersive sequel that not only builds on the magical chaos of book one, but deepens it with emotional intensity, layered storytelling, and standout mythological integration.
What truly sets this installment apart is the intricate weaving of Greek mythology retellings. The lore is handled with both reverence and creative freedom, reimagining familiar gods, legends, and curses in ways that feel fresh and unpredictable. Every ...more
thank you to the lovely author ever king and netgalley for allowing me an arc for this book for an honest review - especially with how much i loved the first one. i was extremely excited!
based on the story of aphrodite and adonis in greek mythology, the second instalment continues from the first book, however follows two new people: lyla and bastian.
lyla is a forest mage who takes care of the academy’s greenhouse. she’s sweet, often underestimated but she is shown to be fierce, smart and wantin ...more
based on the story of aphrodite and adonis in greek mythology, the second instalment continues from the first book, however follows two new people: lyla and bastian.
lyla is a forest mage who takes care of the academy’s greenhouse. she’s sweet, often underestimated but she is shown to be fierce, smart and wantin ...more
Thank you from the bottom of my heart to the author for sharing an ARC of this book with me !!!
“Only a God can kill a God”
“Flowers don’t bloom for admiration, but they’re worshipped for their beauty. “
“He was the poison in my veins and I savoured every drop”
Loved it, loved it, loved it!!!! I don’t actually know what kind of drug this author puts into these books but I always find myself wanting more. There is something so enthralling about the way she seamlessly puts together the romance betwee ...more
“Only a God can kill a God”
“Flowers don’t bloom for admiration, but they’re worshipped for their beauty. “
“He was the poison in my veins and I savoured every drop”
Loved it, loved it, loved it!!!! I don’t actually know what kind of drug this author puts into these books but I always find myself wanting more. There is something so enthralling about the way she seamlessly puts together the romance betwee ...more
✨Academy of Villains: Lesson in Loyalty✨
Author: Ever King
Release: June 24, 2025
Series: Book 2
Back at the academy with Ever King’s cast of morally grey and uniquely talented characters, we find ourselves following a new couple and an Aphrodite and Adonis retelling. We continue on our overarching plot, making this sequel most appreciated when read after book one.
After the events of book one, the secrets and twists are just getting started. We begin by following Lyla, our forestmage FMC, as she se ...more
Author: Ever King
Release: June 24, 2025
Series: Book 2
Back at the academy with Ever King’s cast of morally grey and uniquely talented characters, we find ourselves following a new couple and an Aphrodite and Adonis retelling. We continue on our overarching plot, making this sequel most appreciated when read after book one.
After the events of book one, the secrets and twists are just getting started. We begin by following Lyla, our forestmage FMC, as she se ...more
Enemies to lovers fans—you’re about to eat well.
This time, the spotlight is on Lyla & Bastian (Adonis & Aphrodite reimagined), and I knew from book one that their chemistry was going to explode. The tension? Unmatched. The banter? Sharper than a blade. And Bastian? He’s giving “touch her and you die” energy with just enough softness to make you melt. & I’m here for it!! 😊
What I love about this series is how the female characters are always unapologetic badasses❤️🔥. Lyla holds her own, and watch ...more
This time, the spotlight is on Lyla & Bastian (Adonis & Aphrodite reimagined), and I knew from book one that their chemistry was going to explode. The tension? Unmatched. The banter? Sharper than a blade. And Bastian? He’s giving “touch her and you die” energy with just enough softness to make you melt. & I’m here for it!! 😊
What I love about this series is how the female characters are always unapologetic badasses❤️🔥. Lyla holds her own, and watch ...more
The second book in this magical, myth-inspired series follows Lyla Stark, a strong and quietly powerful FMC, and Bastian Lightcroft, a morally gray member of the Raven Society who carries a deadly secret. Their story blends enemies to lovers tension, touch-her-and-die protectiveness, and a dangerous game of trust and betrayal.
Lyla, the Oracle’s chosen guardian of the Golden Tree and its Apples, lives in the Greenhouse, navigating the unwanted attention of classmates. Bastian, is being used by Ko ...more
Lyla, the Oracle’s chosen guardian of the Golden Tree and its Apples, lives in the Greenhouse, navigating the unwanted attention of classmates. Bastian, is being used by Ko ...more
Thank you to Netgalley and Ever King for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I loved Lyla and Bastian in this book—their story had such a pull! Inspired by the Greek myth of Aphrodite and Adonis, it was executed really well, blending mythology with fantasy academy drama in a way that felt natural and emotional.
One of my favorite parts was the friendship dynamic between Kiara, Octavia, and Lyla. It gave the story a warm, grounding layer amid all the intensity, and their bond mad ...more
I loved Lyla and Bastian in this book—their story had such a pull! Inspired by the Greek myth of Aphrodite and Adonis, it was executed really well, blending mythology with fantasy academy drama in a way that felt natural and emotional.
One of my favorite parts was the friendship dynamic between Kiara, Octavia, and Lyla. It gave the story a warm, grounding layer amid all the intensity, and their bond mad ...more
In a kingdom where magic is fading and a ruthless king will stop at nothing to gain more power, the hunt begins for the golden apples of immortality, protected by mage Lyla Stark.
When Lyla is unexpectedly bound by a magical Heartstring to the enigmatic Bastian Lightcroft - a man full of secrets and danger who can’t seem to stay away - everything begins to unravel. As dark magic spreads and truths are exposed, loyalties are tested, hearts are shaken, and Lyla must face one haunting question: can ...more
When Lyla is unexpectedly bound by a magical Heartstring to the enigmatic Bastian Lightcroft - a man full of secrets and danger who can’t seem to stay away - everything begins to unravel. As dark magic spreads and truths are exposed, loyalties are tested, hearts are shaken, and Lyla must face one haunting question: can ...more
This is book two in the series. If you have not read book one, I suggest you do! It's Good, but in my opinion, book two is even better.
I love Lyla! She comes off as sweet and innocent, but don’t let that fool you because the girl can care for herself. Bastian comes off as mysterious, and morally gray. The tension, banter, and spice between these two were on point!
Believe it or not, I love me a Villain so I loved Kore as a character😈
The magic system, the magical objects just all the details that ...more
I love Lyla! She comes off as sweet and innocent, but don’t let that fool you because the girl can care for herself. Bastian comes off as mysterious, and morally gray. The tension, banter, and spice between these two were on point!
Believe it or not, I love me a Villain so I loved Kore as a character😈
The magic system, the magical objects just all the details that ...more
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This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it,
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I can even begin to tell you how obsessed I am with this series
5/5⭐️
If you like Greek mythology dark romance retellings this is the series for you. It’s got action and romance. I won’t give away any spoilers but one of my favorite things about this series is each book is different characters BUT the characters from the previous book are still very much involved in each book. So you don’t read about them and move on. They are all still together. I am obsessed and I can’t wait until book 3 is out! ...more
5/5⭐️
If you like Greek mythology dark romance retellings this is the series for you. It’s got action and romance. I won’t give away any spoilers but one of my favorite things about this series is each book is different characters BUT the characters from the previous book are still very much involved in each book. So you don’t read about them and move on. They are all still together. I am obsessed and I can’t wait until book 3 is out! ...more
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5 | 🌶️
(rounding up)
Lessons in loyalty - Aphrodite & Adonis is Book 2 in the Academy of Villains series; a continuation of a dark academia romantasy, where each book explores a different couple inspired by Greek mythology, blending romance, mystery, and rich world-building.
We're back to the kingdom of Ithaka and the Academy of Magic where magic is fading and the ruthless king is seeking immortality through mythical golden apples. Lyla Stark, a young mage and guardian of the greenhouse a ...more
(rounding up)
Lessons in loyalty - Aphrodite & Adonis is Book 2 in the Academy of Villains series; a continuation of a dark academia romantasy, where each book explores a different couple inspired by Greek mythology, blending romance, mystery, and rich world-building.
We're back to the kingdom of Ithaka and the Academy of Magic where magic is fading and the ruthless king is seeking immortality through mythical golden apples. Lyla Stark, a young mage and guardian of the greenhouse a ...more
What can I say about Lessons in Loyalty that I haven’t already said about Academy of Villains? That I loved it ? Already said that then. That the dark vibe is just gothic enough to make my heart pound, without versing into horror (I’m a wimp, can’t do horror)? Yup, I said that before as well.
Thankfully, this second instalment in the series is packed to the brim with goodness, so I won’t have to look too far for something else to tell you.
First of all, Bastian. Oh my gosh, Bastian! Do you like a ...more
Thankfully, this second instalment in the series is packed to the brim with goodness, so I won’t have to look too far for something else to tell you.
First of all, Bastian. Oh my gosh, Bastian! Do you like a ...more
5⭐2🌶️
This sequel was everything I wanted and then some.
Where book one plants the seeds of the Academy of Magic’s richly layered world, book two lets them take root and bloom—exploring shadowy landscapes, deepening the unique magic system, and giving character arcs that feel both gorgeous and achingly real. It’s the kind of continuation that doesn’t just follow in book one’s footsteps, but lets the story flourish.
Ever King has this way of folding Greek mythology into her stories that is downright ...more
This sequel was everything I wanted and then some.
Where book one plants the seeds of the Academy of Magic’s richly layered world, book two lets them take root and bloom—exploring shadowy landscapes, deepening the unique magic system, and giving character arcs that feel both gorgeous and achingly real. It’s the kind of continuation that doesn’t just follow in book one’s footsteps, but lets the story flourish.
Ever King has this way of folding Greek mythology into her stories that is downright ...more
Ever King's second instalment in the Academy of Villains series, Lessons in Loyalty, continues to impress. 4.5/5
The evolving dynamic between Lyla and Bastian is laced with tension and vulnerability, as both characters grapple with loyalty, legacy, and trust. As their relationship grows, Lyla's sharp-edged resilience plays perfectly against Bastian's enigmatic intensity, sucking you in word for word. The dual POV adds depth to their arc giving us a glimpse of the emotional weight Lyla and Bastia ...more
The evolving dynamic between Lyla and Bastian is laced with tension and vulnerability, as both characters grapple with loyalty, legacy, and trust. As their relationship grows, Lyla's sharp-edged resilience plays perfectly against Bastian's enigmatic intensity, sucking you in word for word. The dual POV adds depth to their arc giving us a glimpse of the emotional weight Lyla and Bastia ...more
I was a little worried about the main character shift. I am so happy we still get to see a lot of Lucian and Kiara. But I absolutely loved getting to read Lyla and Bastian as the main characters! Lyla is such a sweet girl who learns how powerful she can be. Bastian is someone I didn't really know how to feel about at first. But wow does his character get a lot of development through this book. The story line was so good. The truths that come out are jaw dropping and the battles have just begun.
...more
I’m convinced ever king can’t write a bad book. I’ve been on the edge of my seat since reading academy of villains waiting for book 2 and this didn’t disappoint. Dare I say I prefer bastian and Lyla to Lucian and Kiara I adored them in this book! And I love that we are getting to know more of the ensemble in a deeper way! I’m so glad I got this arc bc I literally couldn’t wait.
Another fabulous read by Ever King. It was delightful returning to the Academy of Magic. This story focuses on Lyla and Bastian, loosely based on Adonis and Aphrodite. At first glance, Bastian appears reckless and uncaring, but as we get to know him, he reveals much more depth, the perfect example of a morally gray character who commits questionable acts to protect those he loves. Meanwhile, Lyla, though initially quiet and demure, discovers the strength to grow beyond what she thought possible.
...more
These characters.. oh my god. The swooning, the banter, the character development from them both. I love this book so much.
Bastian, not wanting to connect with anyone, staying clear of everyone but the members of the raven society. He’s the kings soldier? Slave? He’s doing things against his will to aid the king.
Lyla, she keeps to herself and doesn’t really like using her magic unless it’s in her greenhouse attending to plants.
Bastian helps Lyla learn how to protect herself, with and without ...more
Bastian, not wanting to connect with anyone, staying clear of everyone but the members of the raven society. He’s the kings soldier? Slave? He’s doing things against his will to aid the king.
Lyla, she keeps to herself and doesn’t really like using her magic unless it’s in her greenhouse attending to plants.
Bastian helps Lyla learn how to protect herself, with and without ...more
Thank you for the ARC copy! Everything you hoped for after the cliffhanger in the first book, you get in the second! And oh my, so much more! Twists, quests, spice, 5/5! Cannot wait for the third part!
Okay the first one was great. But i like this one even better. I love the chemistry between Lyla and Bastian. And also to get to know more about them. And their roles in the story and involvement in trying to defeat the king. I already curious about this series. But this book really made me invested🙌
The second book in the Academy of Villains series is every you could want. Loved all the vibes. Great storytelling, well developed characters!
Apr 08, 2025
Karissa Sperry
marked it as to-read
Apr 18, 2025
Morgan
marked it as to-read
𝘍𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘮𝘢𝘵𝘦𝘴 (𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴)
𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴
𝘚𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘵
𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 & 𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘴
𝘛𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 ☠️
𝘎𝘰𝘥𝘴/𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴/𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴
~𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬~
And the saga continues! A marvelous follow up story weaving myth and magic into a retelling of Aphrodite and Adonis’ love story. I am fascinated with this series and cannot wait to see where it goes next. Ever King has created a fantasy world that is entertaining, empowering, romantic, and just a little perilous and I’m here for all of it. The plot follows a new love story ...more
𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘤𝘪𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴
𝘚𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘵
𝘔𝘢𝘨𝘪𝘤 & 𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘭𝘴
𝘛𝘰𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘥 ☠️
𝘎𝘰𝘥𝘴/𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘴/𝘮𝘢𝘨𝘦𝘴
~𝐓𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬~
And the saga continues! A marvelous follow up story weaving myth and magic into a retelling of Aphrodite and Adonis’ love story. I am fascinated with this series and cannot wait to see where it goes next. Ever King has created a fantasy world that is entertaining, empowering, romantic, and just a little perilous and I’m here for all of it. The plot follows a new love story ...more
