Spellcaster

Eve (Supernatural Academy) draws readers into a steamy if somewhat formulaic new adult romantasy set at an elite magic school. A witch’s magic blooms at 22 and only the most powerful are granted admission to Weatherstone College. New student Paisley Hallistar, whose father is a professor and whose four siblings are also enrolled at Weatherstone, worries that she’s not worthy of attending the university, particularly as she struggles to find her elemental affinity, something all witches have. Making matters worse is Logan Kingston, a spellcaster, or witch who has power over all of the elements. The Kingston and Hallistar families have a long-standing blood feud, though Paisley can’t remember what started it. Danger lurks around every corner: mythological monsters prove to be all too real, strange attacks have Paisley’s parents reconsidering her enrollment, and, despite their enmity, Paisley and Logan are undeniably drawn to each other. The worldbuilding feels familiar, with notes of Harry Potter and Fourth Wing, but Eve’s care with characterization, especially with Paisley’s friends and family, elevates the proceedings. While the romance has a slow-burning fuse, the chemistry is palpable. With a cliffhanger ending that leaves several questions unanswered, this will have romantasy fans eagerly awaiting the next installment. (Sept.)