Review: Enjoying This New and Mature Academy
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 13, 2014
Ok, she had me at "Men"...or whatever word started this series.  This is a full length, 420 page new series (New Adult rather than YA) set in the Academy universe.I really liked the Ghost Bird series but it was just sweet. I craved something a bit more mature and this one hit that sweet spot.  I never would have thought I'd enjoy a harem series situation but I simply can't put the books down once I get started. Note to self: always block out several hours before beginning an Academy book. This new series is no exception.Plot: Kayli is a thief. Specifically, a pockpocket working to make ends meet with an abusive alcoholic father and smart younger brother. But the police are on to her and she will end up with a group of young men who need her specific skills.  Kayli soon finds herself embroiled with the Academy and a group of guys who each have specific skills and personalities.Of course, all the Academy books are like playing a Japanese harem game - several archetype boys that a Mary Sue can play against (dangerous one, quiet one, studious one, emo one, sweet one) with enough intimate interactions with each to fire the emotions and imagination after the book is done. Readers might root for one particular guy or simply read to try to figure out who she will eventually choose. But what keeps me reading is that I like the way she writes the people and characters. There are some tics in here that are too similar to the affectations of the Ghost Bird series boys (lots of massaging, for example) but it didn't bother me too much.In all, this first book is a great bit of escapism, a modern day Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. As much as I liked the other series, I think I'm going to really love this one better. I eagerly look forward to each new book in the series!