MY RATING:
Synopsis:
Welcome to Evergreen Academy, the secret college for Magical Botanists.
I’d always sensed something peculiar about the reclusive Evergreen Academy, tucked deep in the woods of my hometown. But I never could have imagined it was a college for magical botanists–and that I am one of them. An invitation to the academy opens up a whole new world of wonder, yet my plant affinity powers remain elusive, and my scientific training is far behind that of my peers.
Read More:
When I’m assigned a tutor, Callan Rhodes, a powerful descendant of the academy’s founders, I’m baffled by his willingness to help me.
Despite my challenges, I’m enchanted by the academy’s glass schoolhouse, its grounds which are overflowing with plants that defy the climate, and the quirky festivals held each equinox and solstice.
But disaster looms as the verdant shield that protects the academy from the prying eyes of nonmagical people begins to falter. Can Callan and the other founder’s descendants sustain the magic on their own, or will the clock finally start to tick on figuring out my powers?
Elements you’ll find in this story:
Magical academy
Plant magic
Small town setting
Cozy fantasy
Light academia
Science-based magic system
Slow burn romance (no spice)
First person POV
An enchanting world
And so much more
- Pages: 396
- Genre: Cosy Fantasy/YA
- Publication date: First published April 24, 2025
- Format: Paperback, Kindle, Hardcover, Audiobook
- Source: Owned
PURCHASE LINKS:
AMAZON
KOBO
REVIEW:
Aww, I am so pleased with this find and so happy it was actually a cosy fantasy and above all YA. I have not read YA for a while because I find that I have outgrown it, but here the characters were very believable and likeable. Additionally, the plot and the story were so enchanting and beautifully written that I was transported into this world.
This felt like an allegory to all things nature, and if you love magical schools with a dash of mystery, then this is your pick!
I was pleasantly surprised by all the characters. There wasn’t any unnecessary or annoying dialogue, and there were no clichéd or banal actions either, which felt like a breath of fresh air. There is also a romance brewing in the background, and it is lovely that this is not the main focus.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am already reading the sequel. There is still so much left to uncover, hidden powers are awakening, and, most importantly, the story beautifully highlights friendship, a love for nature, and meaningful messages throughout. Highly recommended, 4.5 stars!
Lin's Perspective 
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