Arcana Academy

Simmering romance, broody dark academia aesthetics, and an inventive magic system combine in YA author Kova’s fascinating traditionally published debut (after A Deal with the Elf King). Petty criminal Clara Graysword has been trapped in Halazar Prison for nearly a year, languishing in her cell unless she’s inking illegal tarot cards for the warden, a magic that only the highly trained elite are meant to have access to. Then comes a visit from Prince Kaelis, who learns of her ability and offers her an opportunity to escape the prison—though it comes with strings attached. Kaelis enrolls her in Arcana Academy, where he is headmaster, to formally hone her talents, and introduces her to everyone as the noble Clara Redwin of Clan Hermit, his intended bride. It’s all part of Kaelis’s desperate hunt for the rarest tarot card, considered by most to be a myth, in order to remake the world. Unsure of who to trust—least of all her future husband—Clara attempts to navigate the perils of the court and academy. Kova’s characters are well-shaded and her tarot-based magic system feels fresh and exciting. The worldbuilding here is largely limited to the confines of the academy, leaving much to explore in future installments. Fans of Leigh Bardugo and Sarah J. Maas are sure to be pleased. (July)

Correction: A previous version of this review incorrectly stated that this novel is the author’s adult debut and misidentified her previous book.