Magical boarding schools are one of my favorite plots, especially for middle grade books, and this one does not disappoint!

My heart broke for Vin from the beginning, always feeling like there is something wrong with her and that no one cares for her. She avoids friends and family because she has never belonged anywhere and people always turn from her. Until she arrives at a school for magical delinquents like herself.

I loved Vin’s friend group. They found her and wouldn’t let her stay away from them, even when others thought she was weird. They accepted Vin for who she was, whether is was someone with low, undeveloped, uncontrollable skill, or someone with a very rare talent.

And Brucipher was my favorite!

The mystery and drama around the school and the Free Mages (and the school board) was fun as well. Yes, as an adult, I predicted who the villain was right away. But I do that with books written for adults as well (it’s the neurodivergent in me).

All in all this was an incredibly fun read and I recommend it to anyone, kids and adults who are kids at heart. I’m looking forward to the next book and hope this becomes a continuing series.

Disclaimer: I received an eARC for review consideration though NetGalley, on behalf of the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.