Demigods Academy: Year One (Demigods Academy #1) by Elisa S. Amore

Demigods Academy: Year One (Demigods Academy #1) Reviews

• 
  Seraphia

  Demigods Academy is an absolute blast! I loved every minute of this book and am absolutely eager for more!
  Melaney is an outsider. Her 18th birthday came and went and she never received the famed Shadowbox that all other kids have received on their 18th birthday. Well, get ready for a surprise! Her "friend" Callie just turned 18. All her life she and her family have gone and paid tribute to the gods in the hopes that she would get the coveted invitation to their academy. Well...when things do go as she thought - the epic opening of the box to big fanfare, the coveted invitation, etc. she throws the Shadowbox down in a tantrum. Melaney doesn't expect a reaction from the box, but that's exactly what she gets when she picks up. But the surprises don't stop there...Melaney discovers a scroll that is the coveted invitation. Instead of putting it back and giving it to Callie...she keeps it and determines to go and test her fate against the gods. Question is...will she make it? Or fail epically? Either way...there is no turning back.
  Demigods Academy - Year One is a fantastic Young Adult Supernatural academy novel. You will most definitely see the references to Harry Potter and Percy Jackson in this book. I absolutely loved it! Melaney finding the invitation and keeping it even reminded me of the ballet movie - "Leap." But I couldn't help but question...what if she was meant to have it? Melaney is quite refreshing in my opinion. Quite often authors give readers main characters with a ton of attitude to drown the world in and it just never stops. Melaney, while she does have some attitude, doesn't wave it around like she's so angry at the world and that she doesn't care who knows it. I was so relieved when this aspect of her shown through. She goes from being essentially friendless to having a couple of unique friends. I like how they come together and are kind to each other. Of course, there is the expected bully who is out to prove that Melaney doesn't belong, but that just amps up the drama. Of course, when Melaney isn't getting on the wrong side of a couple of her teachers.
  Is there anything that I don't like about this book? Absolutely not. Normally, if there is too much attitude from a character I will definitely howl about it, but the author does an excellent job keeping the attitude to a minimum and doesn't just throw it around like she has the world's biggest chip on her shoulder. For those of you who don't like cliffhangers...sorry not sorry but buckle-up buttercup cuz its a-comin!
  I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I loved it and couldn't get enough of it! I need more!! Preferably soon. Haha! If you like fantasy/paranormal novels and academy style books then this one will be a good fit for you. The gods aren't just "figureheads" in this book. They are the characters, too! I'm sure that you'll love it as much as I did.
  
• 
  Dea

  2,5
  Predictable plot with cartoonish characters. It is not a badly written book but nothing really extraordinary happens.There are a few fighting classes,a couple of unexplained earthquakes and some shadows are looming around the Academy. I like fantasy books centered around greek mythology so this story is good for a quick read before falling asleep.
• 
  Amber Behnke

  I absolutely loved this book! There isn't a single thing I would change. It is the perfect blend of fantasy and romance. The romance doesn't get in the way of the story of the characters becoming soldiers it only enhances it, and vice versa. I can't wait for year two! Need it now!
• 
  itznyzzz

  Honestly, I don't know how to feel about this book... Nothing big happens but I guess that’s because is just the first book. The first few chapters were a little interesting, the rest was okay. The only thing that makes me want to read the next book was because of how the last chapter ended. Even though what happened was expected.
  
  The description of this book says it's a Harry Potter meets Percy Jackson. I can see why. I wanted more details on the world building. I'm hoping it is because this is just the beginning and my questions will be answered later in the other books.
  
  I kinda feel bad saying this but I don't really care for the characters, their relationships/friendships... just yet. Not much to go on.
  
  Melany's determined and she knows how stands up for herself. I'm definitely curious. Other than that, I don't know how to feel about her. And if I didn't know what to make out of Melany, much less with Lucian. His pov didn't explain much. Don't know if I like him or not, they didn't give me a reason to care about him. He's fine, I guess.
  
  I didn't really feel their connection. Yes, they cared for each other, but to the extent that was said.... I don't know about that... There wasn't much bonding shown. Only them glaring at each other, little talks and them making out. It would have been better if it was a slow burn or of there were at least scenes were they get to know each other, see their dynamic. Like she found him handsome, he found her intriguing and they admire each other's skills... and...? Hoping next book we have more scenes were they are together, getting to know each other.
  
  I don't know, I am asking for too much for a first book?😅 or did I missed something or read incorrectly?
  
  I'm so conflicted. I didn't dislike the book but I didn't loved it.
  
  Nonetheless, I'm still going to read the next book. Despite everything, I still enjoyed it. I see the potential.
• 
  Andy

  3.5/5
  
  I received a free audiobook from the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
  
  This was such an interesting story! I loved the concept of Demigods going to school to learn how to harness their powers. Melany never received her own Shadowbox--a gift from the gods everyone receives on their 18th birthday. When Callie Demos, a girl with everything whom Melany's adopted mother works for, isn't invited to join the Army of the gods, Melany is left to clean up the Shadowbox.
  
  As soon as she touches it, she feels magic. When she looks inside she finds an invitation to the Army. How could Callie have missed it? When Melany risks taking Callie's spot, she isn't sure she'll find a spot to fit in. After all, no one else has wanted this blue-haired, tatted orphan girl yet.
  
  I really enjoy school stories and this was no different. I loved seeing the various different classes. One thing that was different was that all of the demigods seemed to have powers not just only from their godly lineage. Having to pass trials to be invited into the army after schooling was intense. The trials they all faced were no joke. I loved seeing Melany protect her friends and make sure they passed alongside her.
  
  Guessing everyone's godly parentage was a really fun part of the story. I wasn't right on all counts, but I'm most excited to see what will happen with Melany after her claiming. I also enjoyed seeing Melany's powers grow alongside her relationships with her friends. The romance between Lucian and Melany was so much fun and I can't wait to see more of them!
• 
  Lane

  I liked this well enough but there were a few problems for me. The pacing didn’t feel very consistent which isn’t exactly an issue except that it didn’t flow very naturally when there was a change up. At times the writing and words used felt heightened as far as vocabulary and sentencing goes and other times a little more childish and menial. There were a few times when it seemed to contradict itself. Overall though it was decent enough and went by pretty quickly, plus I finished it and that doesn’t usually happen if I’m not at least enjoying a book on some level. I think what really saved this for me and made it enjoyable was that it dealt with the Greek gods and in an academy setting no less. I wish we had more class time though. Not crazy about the romantic relationship but I appreciate the platonic ones and I hope that they’re developed more as the series continues. Major cliff hanger but no surprise there given that it’s a kindle unlimited series and from my experience that’s their MO.
• 
  Abi

  This was such a good book! I look forward to books two and three.
  
  The pacing and plot were excellent. In terms of being an academy book specifically, I really appreciated that it kept classes and learning the whole way through, as many drop them in favor of romance or mystery. This managed to incorporate romance and a bit of mystery well, along with a good group of characters. I look forward to seeing all of them become more fleshed out as the series goes on. As for the main character, Melany, I loved her! She was smart and strong, without being idiotic. I enjoyed watching her mistakes and triumphs. I also enjoyed her relationship with Lucien. I loved that he wasn't the typical closed off asshole love interest. Nope! He was actually respectful, caring, kind, handsome, and really awesome. I quite like him, and hope he and Melany continue their romance in later books.
  
  Overall, this ended up being better than I expected, and I read it in a day. Melany was an excellent heroine, and the plot provided an interesting academy with cool classes, a bit of intrigue, and some fun romance. I do hope that her friends get a bit more fleshed out as the books go on. I look forward to book 2 after that ending! Awesome book! 5 stars!
• 
  Thea’s Reading World 💛

  And what a beautiful surprise....
  When it says it's like Percy Jackson, it doesn't lie for suuuure. But in a good way.
  
  Like in Percy Jackson, I predicted the God in the lineage of our main character Melany. Even her name suggest what she'll be picked as.
  
  This series is exactly what I needed for my reading slump. Usually when I feel a slump coming I come back to one of my favorite sub genres Paranormal Romances with this cover set in Academy settings. And this one delivered...
  
  For the people that want to know, here's what the book is about :
  
  
  The Greek Gods are back after they rebuilt their society and each year, they pick 32 people on their 18th birthday to go to an Academy that trains them to be in the Gods' army against Titans, should there ever be need.
  
  Our mc Melany lives in a rich family house and Callie, the kid of the family just turned 18 and has her Shadowbox (basically like a Harry Potter letter) come in for.But when she opens it, contrary to what the family expected, she was not invited.
  Being tasked to get rid of the Shadowbox, when Melany opens it she finds a scroll that invites her as one of the 32 students. But how could that be when the shadowbox wasn't hers? Was it Callie's chance that she was stealing?
  
  
  The book was like crack, couldn't stop reading. They are all super short so I bet that in no time I'll be done with the series. The concept is super interesting in itself, but I also loved the characters. Lucian is your generic love interest, but he's soooo sweet. Georgina is a cutie pie and Jasmine our favorite lesbian-(I thiiiiink).
  
  If you like Percy Jackson and you need something similar but not the same, try this series. Each book is short so you won't waste too much time if it's not your thing.
  
  
  Also for my reverse harem people: this is not one sorry😂 wrong person to read the reviews of cause I don't really read RH.
• 
  Charlotte

  Demigods academy year one...... 🤩
  
  5 stars completely deserved. This is an awesome and brilliant read! A must read for anyone who likes reading about the gods.
  
  Oh my word... that ending??? It had me grinning from ear to ear.
  
  This is a brilliantly written story. Over the years that i really got into reading and the 500 something fictional books i have read this is up there at the top with the best.
  
  The world building is superb set in a fabulous story line. A world brimming with adventure' action' humour' friendship with a touch of romance.
  
  I enjoyed every aspect of the story' it pulled me in and kept me entertained and on the edge of my seat throughout.
  
  I loved the characters Melany ( Blue ) i felt she is written beautifully. As are all the other characters.
  
  Elisa S Amore and kiera Legend' you are both Absalutely brilliant and excellent writers with the most wonderful imaginations.
  
  I can't wait to find out what happens next in Year 2. Bring it on!!!
• 
  Mandy Stump

  "I recieved an Advanced Review Copy of this book."
  Where do I start. I was so excited to get to read this book in advance. Been awhile since I have read a good demigod book. Also I love Elisa S. Amore's work. I have to say this book was fantastic. I loved Melany's characters. She had spirt and was a badass really. I love when a MC female character isn't helpless. Also Lucian omg he sounded hot. I felt the connection between them I was rooting for them but I have to say I was way to happy with Hades showed up. I really want Melany with him idk why. That fantasy played into my head where he kept protecting her and chose her. Shocked by the ending but was so happy was hoping for it since he showed up. Also the close friendship bonds in this book were amazing. Loved how close they all because like family.
• 
  Sydney

  This was a great story Melany has several ups and downs throughout the book and truly learns about who she is as a person. And she is one spitfire, not letting anyone push her around which can get her into some trouble.Throw in some conniving Gods into the mix and dark shadows and there is no telling where she may go. The jerk who may not be a jerk, Lucian also has to come to terms with the boy he grow up as and the man he wants to be. And the spark between him and Melany excited to she how big of a fire the will grow into. The build of not only the main characters but the side characters are great they grow with every meeting. And sorry to say but the last line of the book will only leave you wanting more. 😁
• 
  Erica Paré

  This type of book is not what I would normally read. With that being said, I finished this book in an evening! It so good! When it is described as Harry Potter meets Percy Jackson, its not a lie. The characters are well developped and the detail provided by the other plays like a movie.
  
  Lucian is my favorite character in this book. He is different than those in his group and thats a good thing. He is caring and definitely is interested in our main MC Melany. It makes me wonder about those shadowboxes though, did it give one message to Callie and knew that it was Melany the second time since she never received her box? Did someone take it?
• 
  jade-chantelle

  This book was a good read and i love how it ended can't wait to read the second book
  There were some unresolved issues in the book for me to give it 5 stars and am hoping some are answered in the next book
  I do love how badass the FMC is and she doesn't take shit from anyone
  Is it wrong for me to want her to be with hades?
  Looking forward to seeing how this develops
  The story line is good and its in detail with what's going on around the book great first in the series
• 
  Keeloween

  legit the worse blurb ive ever read.. can't wait to read it
• 
  Tiera McMillian

  Great start to this series and what an ending! This book grabbed me up really quickly, and though there is still quite a bit of mystery... and that ending was like whhhhaaaaatt, I feel like we are really headed for some greatness in the next books.
  
  FMC, Melany, decided to attend Demigod Academy on a whim, not actually believing that the gods really taught. Upon barely arriving, Melany realizes real quick all the stories are true and knows that she has tricked and stolen her way in. Now she is going to have to fake it till she makes it through the classes so no one realizes she is an impostor... that is until she not only starts doing well in the classes but also excelling at almost everything. The gods know something is...different about Melany but no one can tell her what the difference is, especially since they all seem distracted by the goings on in the world.. natural disasters have started occurring all over the world and Melany is suspicious of some of the gods behavior.. They may actually have some answers.. but she has to get through the school year in order to find things out.\
  
  I got to say that Melany is pretty great.. she is boarder line too hostile but always reigns it in just as she starts going overboard.. She also doesn't seem to take no crap.. from anyone which usually means shes swimming in some crap she done stirred up lol. Can't wait to walk the mysteries unfold in this story! On to the next one.
• 
  Jordan Odom

  There were so many things that didn’t really add up in this book but I gave it four star nonetheless because it was so freaking entertaining. I seriously had so much fun reading it.
• 
  Jennifer G

  On their eighteenth birthday, everyone receives a gift from the Gods; a beautiful Shadowbox. Most contain a note of well-wishes but a select few get the call to train with the Gods and join the Gods’ Army. Nothing else is known because those people are never seen again. Melany Richmond is not a believer. An orphan, later adopted by the housekeeper of a devout, wealthy family, Melany didn't even receive a Shadowbox on her birthday. So when she opened the discarded Shadowbox of Callie Demos, the spoiled daughter of the house, felt the magic, and received an invitation to the God’s Academy she didn't think twice about accepting this unexpected opportunity. It's only later that she worries that the Gods will figure out that she's a fake. She's a blue-haired misfit with tattoos and piercings; she doesn't belong with the perfect demigods at the academy.
  
  I love Greek mythology. I love a good academy book. This is both and I loved it. The Gods, the classes, the trials. It's pure entertainment. The world-building is exceptional and the writing is flawless. It captures the complete academy first-year experience; feeling like you are in over your head, getting singled out for being different, finding your people, finding your footing, finding a boy, growing, and starting to become whom you are meant to be. There was a nice balance of character development and storyline. A few unexpected twists are thrown in along the way adding to the adventure and then an expected surprise ending make you impatient for year two. Can't wait to see what it brings!
• 
  Ludo

  I was not too fond of the first series from one of the authors, because it seemed a copy of Twilight and Fallen. I gave this a chance because of the covers and some extracts and the all-positive reviews, however, that “characteristics” did not change: this one was heavily inspired by Percy Jackson. I’m not saying this just because it is about demigods, but because there are even similar scenes (example from this book and The Battle of the Labyrinth under spoiler): Annabeth kisses Percy in the volcano while they are hiding behind the rock, here Lucian too steals a kiss in the exact same circumstances
  About the story, it felt too rushed. I didn’t particularly appreciate the characters either (or the practically insta-love, though I appreciated that there was no love triangle, though I suspect it may appear in the sequel). Contrary to a lot of people, I don’t really have problems with Mary Sues. Still, this protagonist was way too perfect and powerful (and naive, in my opinion, not to say stupid). The authors tried so much to make her unique and different and special, that she became a total standard protagonist.
  Probably, I’ll continue the series because I don’t like leaving them unfinished, and also the books are short and fast to read. Still, I doubt I’ll read anything else from the authors.
• 
  Nadya Jackson

  *I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
  
  Melany Richmond isn't what you would call a typical girl even for this crazy world where the Greek Gods still exist.
  She steals her way into the Gods' academy and has to play catch up learning all she can about the world most people were raised believing in.
  Her affinity for certain things has even the Gods curious about what she is doing there, and the ending gives it all a new perspective.
  When school involves routinely fighting your crush and finding out that the world is under attack from forces beyond even the Gods' strength you have to learn pretty quick.
  Melany is sassy and headstrong but knows when it's best to keep quiet. Vanessa Moyen does a pretty decent job showing the attitude and the inflections for Melany. Lucien (Melany's crush) gets a few chapters from his perspective too and they were narrated by Stephen Dexter.
  An interesting perspective on bringing the Gods of old into the world of new.
  Definitely on my list to continue the series!
• 
  shannon haywood

  Devoured this within a few hours, Elisa has wowed me again, and you can truly see that this isn’t just her writing, Kiera and Elisa have surprised me so much with the characters in this book. I just couldn’t get enough of them, I won’t spoil it, but prepare to be surprised with how they portray the Gods, and it is not a bad surprise!
  I also loved how the romance wasn’t the key factor, Mel is bad ass, and she will be with or without a hot guy!
  I’m sad it ended so soon, will be waiting impatiently for book number two.
• 
  Ivy

  This book was amazing! Packed full of adventure, humor, friendship and of course a love interest ;) Every chapter kept me guessing and the plot twists had me devouring this book in one day! If you loved Elisa’s Touched Saga, then you will LOVE this book. Cannot wait for Book 2! I need it NOW!!!
  
  *I received an early release copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
• 
  Debbie Eyre

  Omg 😲 what a story! A well written plot about Greek mythology, gods and demigods and once you start it you will not be able to put this down! You will be sucked into this amazing world that the author has created with the fantastic characters and storyline and that ending!! I need the next book like now please!!! This is a fantabulous start to this series!
• 
  Sally Maxwell

  An interesting read, I enjoyed it, it definitely got better the more you got into it, a great take on the gods of old, and I will be on the look out for book 2, new to know what happens to Melany and her crew.
• 
  Fiona

  Really enjoyed it.
  
  Fast paced page turner offering lots of excitement. There are twists and turns throughout leaving the reader unsure as to what will happen (not too predictable, I like it).
  
  Great characters with some you just love to hate.
  
  I loved it.
• 
  anjuli

  DNF 33%
  Unfortunately, this one as well wasn't for me. I felt myself pulling away and then I just couldn't get back into it. Maybe, one day I may return. For now...it is dnf.