AKARNAE

In this series opener, a 16-year-old from Oregon discovers an enchanting—and perilous—world.

When Alexandra Jennings’ parents need to head to an archaeological dig in Siberia, they send her off to a boarding school in Mount Hood National Forest. She’s already distressed about this change, and the school doesn’t make a great first impression—all the students look bored and unhappy. But soon after her arrival, Alex steps through the door to the headmaster’s office and into another world, where she meets a man named Aven, who informs Alex that she’s his “salvation” and that they’ll rule Medora together. Next, she encounters two boys, Jordan and Bear, who attend Akarnae Academy, a place for those with magical abilities. Alex learns that Medora is “kind of like a parallel Earth, but different.” Awaiting the return of the only person who can help her get home, Akarnae’s headmaster, who’s away traveling, Alex enrolls at the school. The delightful friendships she forms with Bear and Jordan enhance her action-packed adventures. The mysterious Aven appears occasionally, adding to the intrigue around Alex’s purpose in Medora. The engaging characters and immersive worldbuilding, which evokes classic magical boarding school stories, make for an addictive read. While Medora’s advanced technology and the origins of the students’ gifts aren’t sufficiently explained, these elements don’t detract from the overall fun. Aven has bronze skin, and the other leads present white.

A bingeworthy adventure that will leave readers eager for the sequel.