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Supernatural Rehab #1
Van Helsing Academy
From USA Today bestselling author Stacey O'Neale comes the first installment of her new Supernatural Rehab series!
Welcome to the Van Helsing a rehab facility for vampires, shifters, and witches, who don't like to follow the rules.
Mina can't remember anything about the night she was attacked. All she knows is what she's been she got separated from her team during a mission and turned up two months later covered in cuts and bruises alongside two dead vampires.
After being blamed for their deaths, she is sentenced to three years at the supernatural rehabilitation center, the Van Helsing Academy.
As Mina searches for answers, lies are slowly unraveled and alliances forged. Soon she will uncover a secret plot that threatens to destroy her family legacy and ignite a war between the supernatural factions.
Van Helsing Academy is the first book in a new YA Academy series. No harem. Perfect for fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Darkblood Academy by G.K. DeRosa , Wolf Moon Academy by Jen L. Grey, and Shadowspell Academy by K.F. Breene and Shannon Mayer.
Welcome to the Van Helsing a rehab facility for vampires, shifters, and witches, who don't like to follow the rules.
Mina can't remember anything about the night she was attacked. All she knows is what she's been she got separated from her team during a mission and turned up two months later covered in cuts and bruises alongside two dead vampires.
After being blamed for their deaths, she is sentenced to three years at the supernatural rehabilitation center, the Van Helsing Academy.
As Mina searches for answers, lies are slowly unraveled and alliances forged. Soon she will uncover a secret plot that threatens to destroy her family legacy and ignite a war between the supernatural factions.
Van Helsing Academy is the first book in a new YA Academy series. No harem. Perfect for fans of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Darkblood Academy by G.K. DeRosa , Wolf Moon Academy by Jen L. Grey, and Shadowspell Academy by K.F. Breene and Shannon Mayer.
248 pages, Paperback
Published April 24, 2020
60 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
Stacey O'Neale
14 books848 followersUSA Today Bestselling Fantasy Author Stacey O'Neale lives in Maryland. She spends her time reading, watching anime, and hanging out with her husband and daughter when she's not writing.
Stacey writes young adult fantasy and adult paranormal romance. Her books always include swoon-worthy heroes, snarky heroines, and lots of kissing. Her career in publishing started as a blogger-turned-publicist for Entangled Publishing.
Subscribe to her newsletter for release news, discounts, freebies, and more!
https://www.subscribepage.com/q7k6w2
Stacey writes young adult fantasy and adult paranormal romance. Her books always include swoon-worthy heroes, snarky heroines, and lots of kissing. Her career in publishing started as a blogger-turned-publicist for Entangled Publishing.
Subscribe to her newsletter for release news, discounts, freebies, and more!
https://www.subscribepage.com/q7k6w2
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 22, 2021
Mina is a descendant of the infamous vampire hunter, Van Halesing. While out on patrol one night, she gets attacked and wakes up in a hospital after spending months in an unknown location and with an impending trial ahead.
What did she do? Well, she killed two vampires, allegedly. The problem is, she can't remember doing it. So she gets sentenced to three years in a detention/rehabilitation academy that her great great grandfather built.
But Mina has an ulterior motive for accepting the verdict. The academy has secrets, and some of them might just prove her innocence.
I was expecting more from this book. I wasn't disappointed, but it could've been better.
So first up, missed opportunities.
There's vampires, shifters and witches and I wish their abilities were explored more. We only got to see a small part of their power.
Similarly, with the academy, only the weapons class stood out to me. I don't even remember if any others were described? That might be on me, but for example there's several descriptions of the mealtimes and the detentions. They do add to the story, but I wanted more learning time.
Then there was that random fertility ritual...I still don't get the purpose of that...except to show how much freedom the academy allows its students, I suppose?
And the trackers and the panic button, I wanted to see them in action. When Mina comes to the academy, it seems like they're going to be a big part of the story and then they're just in the background.
Now that that's out of the way, CHARACTERS!!!
Mina's head is a nice place to be. I like how she thinks. Except when she's describing Sacha's muscles for the 3578547th time. I get it Mina, he looks like he belongs on the cover of a magazine, you don't have to keep reminding me, I promise I remember.
Kiera is my favourite. She's nice to Mina from the beginning and not once did it seem fake. And she's a very fun character who's not afraid to sing and dance and nerd out.
Sacha is cool and pretty funny on occasion (like the "barrel" scene). I like him and Mina together, although the romance developed too fast for me. It's like she arrived one minute and is smooching him the next. There's a few days in between spent ogling him and all that, but by the end of the book it's clear they're already in love.
This next thing ties into their romance. Sacha is Russian and for most of the book I didn't think any Russian would appear...and then it did.
What I found interesting is that Sacha said "умная девочка" (umnaya devOTCHKA) and Mina sounded it out umnaya devUSHKA. Both words devotchka/devushka mean the same thing (girl), but the first is used for little girls and the second for older ones (which Mina is).
In the same chapter, Sacha says it again and I don't think it flows very well the second time. So might I suggest - "умница" (umnitsa). It means exactly the same thing (smart/clever girl) and works well with the sentence.
Whether that gets fixed or not, it's not a top offender, as far as Slavic language insertions go so I'm giving it a pass.
Will I read more of this series? It's likely, I do care about the characters and want to know what happens next.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
What did she do? Well, she killed two vampires, allegedly. The problem is, she can't remember doing it. So she gets sentenced to three years in a detention/rehabilitation academy that her great great grandfather built.
But Mina has an ulterior motive for accepting the verdict. The academy has secrets, and some of them might just prove her innocence.
I was expecting more from this book. I wasn't disappointed, but it could've been better.
So first up, missed opportunities.
There's vampires, shifters and witches and I wish their abilities were explored more. We only got to see a small part of their power.
Similarly, with the academy, only the weapons class stood out to me. I don't even remember if any others were described? That might be on me, but for example there's several descriptions of the mealtimes and the detentions. They do add to the story, but I wanted more learning time.
Then there was that random fertility ritual...I still don't get the purpose of that...except to show how much freedom the academy allows its students, I suppose?
And the trackers and the panic button, I wanted to see them in action. When Mina comes to the academy, it seems like they're going to be a big part of the story and then they're just in the background.
Now that that's out of the way, CHARACTERS!!!
Mina's head is a nice place to be. I like how she thinks. Except when she's describing Sacha's muscles for the 3578547th time. I get it Mina, he looks like he belongs on the cover of a magazine, you don't have to keep reminding me, I promise I remember.
Kiera is my favourite. She's nice to Mina from the beginning and not once did it seem fake. And she's a very fun character who's not afraid to sing and dance and nerd out.
Sacha is cool and pretty funny on occasion (like the "barrel" scene). I like him and Mina together, although the romance developed too fast for me. It's like she arrived one minute and is smooching him the next. There's a few days in between spent ogling him and all that, but by the end of the book it's clear they're already in love.
This next thing ties into their romance. Sacha is Russian and for most of the book I didn't think any Russian would appear...and then it did.
What I found interesting is that Sacha said "умная девочка" (umnaya devOTCHKA) and Mina sounded it out umnaya devUSHKA. Both words devotchka/devushka mean the same thing (girl), but the first is used for little girls and the second for older ones (which Mina is).
In the same chapter, Sacha says it again and I don't think it flows very well the second time. So might I suggest - "умница" (umnitsa). It means exactly the same thing (smart/clever girl) and works well with the sentence.
Whether that gets fixed or not, it's not a top offender, as far as Slavic language insertions go so I'm giving it a pass.
Will I read more of this series? It's likely, I do care about the characters and want to know what happens next.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
May 2, 2020
Be still my heart! This series is action packed from the very first word. There is never a dull moment, and I loved everything about it! A new world where mists of shadow have fallen down, and suddenly one must fight to discover th secrets and danger waiting on the other side. Lines will be crossed, enemies turned into friends, and nobel intentions abused by a well rehearsed liar. Don't turn your back on anyone if you want to remain alive.
Mina may have finally found a reason not to trust her instincts. They seemed to have let her down in the most spectacular fashion at the worst time possible. When she finds herself in the most unusual and most deadly of circumstanes, it's anyone guess if she will even survive the night. When help and friendship is extended through an act of kindness she gives, her world is turned upside down in an instant. Truly nothing will ever be the same again. Will life very go back to normal for her, or will her new normal be everything that she has been needing and never knew it?
I have fallen hopelessly in love with this fascinating world. The paranormal creatures that I love are trying to live their life. However living life on your terms can be the hardest goal you ever strive for. Mina finds more then hate and sworn enemies on the unusual path she is forced to walk. What she finds next is anyone's guess. I can't wait to see what happens next!!
Stacey O'Neale is a formidable writer, and I am already blown away by this series. I am on pins and needles to see what follows this incredible story filled with amazing characters and wonderfully compelling storyline. This is a must read for all paranormal fans. It will satisfy your sweet tooth and so much more!!
Mina may have finally found a reason not to trust her instincts. They seemed to have let her down in the most spectacular fashion at the worst time possible. When she finds herself in the most unusual and most deadly of circumstanes, it's anyone guess if she will even survive the night. When help and friendship is extended through an act of kindness she gives, her world is turned upside down in an instant. Truly nothing will ever be the same again. Will life very go back to normal for her, or will her new normal be everything that she has been needing and never knew it?
I have fallen hopelessly in love with this fascinating world. The paranormal creatures that I love are trying to live their life. However living life on your terms can be the hardest goal you ever strive for. Mina finds more then hate and sworn enemies on the unusual path she is forced to walk. What she finds next is anyone's guess. I can't wait to see what happens next!!
Stacey O'Neale is a formidable writer, and I am already blown away by this series. I am on pins and needles to see what follows this incredible story filled with amazing characters and wonderfully compelling storyline. This is a must read for all paranormal fans. It will satisfy your sweet tooth and so much more!!
May 20, 2020
*Source* Author/Blog Tour
*Genre* Paranormal Romance
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Van Helsing Academy is the first installment in author Stacey O'Neale's Supernatural Rehab series. Van Helsing Academy is a YA paranormal romance series set in a contemporary world. Protagonist Mina Van Helsing (16) is the great, great-granddaughter of the most famous vampire hunter in history, Professor Abraham Van Helsing. Protecting humans is the family business. Mina has trained her entire life to be what the supes call a reaper. Reapers are the police department of the supernatural underworld and protectors of the Covenant that her grandfather worked hard to pull together.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Paranormal Romance
*Rating* 3.5-4
*Thoughts*
Van Helsing Academy is the first installment in author Stacey O'Neale's Supernatural Rehab series. Van Helsing Academy is a YA paranormal romance series set in a contemporary world. Protagonist Mina Van Helsing (16) is the great, great-granddaughter of the most famous vampire hunter in history, Professor Abraham Van Helsing. Protecting humans is the family business. Mina has trained her entire life to be what the supes call a reaper. Reapers are the police department of the supernatural underworld and protectors of the Covenant that her grandfather worked hard to pull together.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
April 29, 2020
Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher and Rockstar book tours! Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Van Helsing Academy
Author: Stacey O’Neale
Book Series: Supernatural Rehab Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 28, 2020
Genre: New Adult Paranormal
Recommended Age: 18+ (sexual content, language, slight violence)
Publisher: Phoenix Rising Publishing
Pages: 264
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Welcome to the Van Helsing Academy: a rehabilitation center for vampires, shifters, and witches who don't like to follow the rules.
Mina can't remember anything about the night she was attacked. All she knows is what she's been told: she got separated from her team during a mission and turned up two months later covered in cuts and bruises alongside two dead vampires.
After being blamed for their deaths, she is sentenced to three years at the supernatural rehabilitation center, the Van Helsing Academy.
As Mina searches for answers, lies are slowly unraveled and alliances forged. Soon she will uncover a secret plot that threatens to destroy her family legacy and ignite a war between the supernatural factions.
Review: This was a fun book! The writing was amazingly well done, the characters were well developed and the world building was sublime! I loved the world that this author built and I felt this was one of the most fun paranormal books I’ve read in a bit. It’s also a really short book and the pacing is super fast, so be prepared to start running when you read!
The only issue I had was that the romance took a bit to build up and it was a bit slower than what the plot was, which felt a little off, but it was still fun!
Verdict: Definitely recommend!
Book: Van Helsing Academy
Author: Stacey O’Neale
Book Series: Supernatural Rehab Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Publication Date: April 28, 2020
Genre: New Adult Paranormal
Recommended Age: 18+ (sexual content, language, slight violence)
Publisher: Phoenix Rising Publishing
Pages: 264
Amazon Link
Synopsis: Welcome to the Van Helsing Academy: a rehabilitation center for vampires, shifters, and witches who don't like to follow the rules.
Mina can't remember anything about the night she was attacked. All she knows is what she's been told: she got separated from her team during a mission and turned up two months later covered in cuts and bruises alongside two dead vampires.
After being blamed for their deaths, she is sentenced to three years at the supernatural rehabilitation center, the Van Helsing Academy.
As Mina searches for answers, lies are slowly unraveled and alliances forged. Soon she will uncover a secret plot that threatens to destroy her family legacy and ignite a war between the supernatural factions.
Review: This was a fun book! The writing was amazingly well done, the characters were well developed and the world building was sublime! I loved the world that this author built and I felt this was one of the most fun paranormal books I’ve read in a bit. It’s also a really short book and the pacing is super fast, so be prepared to start running when you read!
The only issue I had was that the romance took a bit to build up and it was a bit slower than what the plot was, which felt a little off, but it was still fun!
Verdict: Definitely recommend!
June 22, 2020
This was an okay read.
I liked the idea of the book, but the world building lacked and the plot seemed surface level. Mina is a reaper, a human who keeps supernaturals in line and a direct descendant of Van Helsing. I liked that she was a good fighter and pretty level headed. Despite being raised to be wary of supernaturals, she makes a quick friend in her roommate and even gets romantically involved with an alpha shifter.
I wanted to know more about the supernaturals, it wasn't until the very end that we found out the shifters are all wolves (or so it seems) and we learned zero about the witches. I have a lot of questions that I guess might be answered in the sequel? Also, the story with Cassius seemed obvious and so easy. Maybe if the book were longer, there could have been more to it and not so quickly played out.
I think this has potential as a series, but we'll see how the next book goes.
I liked the idea of the book, but the world building lacked and the plot seemed surface level. Mina is a reaper, a human who keeps supernaturals in line and a direct descendant of Van Helsing. I liked that she was a good fighter and pretty level headed. Despite being raised to be wary of supernaturals, she makes a quick friend in her roommate and even gets romantically involved with an alpha shifter.
I wanted to know more about the supernaturals, it wasn't until the very end that we found out the shifters are all wolves (or so it seems) and we learned zero about the witches. I have a lot of questions that I guess might be answered in the sequel? Also, the story with Cassius seemed obvious and so easy. Maybe if the book were longer, there could have been more to it and not so quickly played out.
I think this has potential as a series, but we'll see how the next book goes.
May 30, 2020
This book was fun to read. I was a little confused at first as to what the Van Helsing Academy was, but I'm pretty sure it's like a juvenile detention facility for vampires, shifters, witches, and the occasional human teenager who works as a Protector of the Covenant (or Reaper). I'm not positive of the exact ages of those serving there, but it seems to be teenagers or teen-equivalent. A pleasant educational experience instead of more traditional punishment. That might seem lenient until you find out that most of the students there are innocent. (It's a place one is "sentenced to" rather than a place you "apply for the opportunity to attend." Though, 20% in, the main character states that the place is not a prison, so that point has been driven home.)
I would recommend this book who enjoy Young Adult speculative fiction/ urban fantasy with a bit of mystery and a touch of paranormal romance. I enjoy reading these types of books, especially as I am a speculative fiction author. The Oglala Lakota tribe is mentioned in the story in a fairly positive light, and I appreciate that.
The main character has her ankles shackled and hands cuffed behind her back, a practice outlawed in some real-world areas, which showed me how harshly they treat even juvenile offenders prior to a hearing.
One of my favorite parts in the book reminds me of a scene in the movie 10 Things I Hate About You. (The roommate jokingly asks if the MC has killed anyone today. The MC says she hasn't but that there's still time. In the 10 Things movie, the dad asks if Kat made anyone cry today, and Kat responds that she hasn't but it's only 4:30.)
At 74% in, I honestly thought someone else would turn out to be the villain, based mostly on who mentions the use of wall chains the most, but I was wrong. I kept turning the pages because there are two mysteries at play- the one that's obvious from the start and one that comes out later. (I'm excited for book two because of that second mystery.)
I love how the book included a discussion of the different types of attraction. The book has a really great cover that certainly matches the story. The title obviously works well. Some nudity and intimacy is woven into the book, but it's on par with other YA novels. I didn't find any editing mishaps.
Not judging others without getting to know them feels like the theme of this book. I imagine Kiera was the most fun character for the author. The order of everything in the story makes sense, and each scene had a good cause and effect to roll to the next. I could relate to being punished when I hadn't broken a rule. The setting sounds like such a beautiful place, which is such a contrast to real-life juvenile rehabilitation detention centers, it really cemented how different the academy is meant to be.
The character Kiera reminded me of my spouse, based on the enthusiasm for helping a relationship bloom; but also reminded me of my Existence character Jez thanks to a mutual love of pink decor. The descriptions of Sacha remind me of my descriptions of my Existence character Heath. (Our books don't have much in common beyond supernatural characters. Yet somehow, it reminds me of my fictional people! This is part of why I loved the book so much.)
It holds a mirror up to society in that there are real-life people who have been punished for crimes they didn't commit, for wrongs that aren't really their fault. I bet this flame will be fanned in the second book, and I'm looking forward to that.
I've been on Stacey's Squad for several years, and love that her newsletter comes to me on Goodreads. That is how I received a free copy to read and review honestly. Book Two is coming August 25! It's on my Amazon Wishlist.
I would recommend this book who enjoy Young Adult speculative fiction/ urban fantasy with a bit of mystery and a touch of paranormal romance. I enjoy reading these types of books, especially as I am a speculative fiction author. The Oglala Lakota tribe is mentioned in the story in a fairly positive light, and I appreciate that.
The main character has her ankles shackled and hands cuffed behind her back, a practice outlawed in some real-world areas, which showed me how harshly they treat even juvenile offenders prior to a hearing.
One of my favorite parts in the book reminds me of a scene in the movie 10 Things I Hate About You. (The roommate jokingly asks if the MC has killed anyone today. The MC says she hasn't but that there's still time. In the 10 Things movie, the dad asks if Kat made anyone cry today, and Kat responds that she hasn't but it's only 4:30.)
At 74% in, I honestly thought someone else would turn out to be the villain, based mostly on who mentions the use of wall chains the most, but I was wrong. I kept turning the pages because there are two mysteries at play- the one that's obvious from the start and one that comes out later. (I'm excited for book two because of that second mystery.)
I love how the book included a discussion of the different types of attraction. The book has a really great cover that certainly matches the story. The title obviously works well. Some nudity and intimacy is woven into the book, but it's on par with other YA novels. I didn't find any editing mishaps.
Not judging others without getting to know them feels like the theme of this book. I imagine Kiera was the most fun character for the author. The order of everything in the story makes sense, and each scene had a good cause and effect to roll to the next. I could relate to being punished when I hadn't broken a rule. The setting sounds like such a beautiful place, which is such a contrast to real-life juvenile rehabilitation detention centers, it really cemented how different the academy is meant to be.
The character Kiera reminded me of my spouse, based on the enthusiasm for helping a relationship bloom; but also reminded me of my Existence character Jez thanks to a mutual love of pink decor. The descriptions of Sacha remind me of my descriptions of my Existence character Heath. (Our books don't have much in common beyond supernatural characters. Yet somehow, it reminds me of my fictional people! This is part of why I loved the book so much.)
It holds a mirror up to society in that there are real-life people who have been punished for crimes they didn't commit, for wrongs that aren't really their fault. I bet this flame will be fanned in the second book, and I'm looking forward to that.
I've been on Stacey's Squad for several years, and love that her newsletter comes to me on Goodreads. That is how I received a free copy to read and review honestly. Book Two is coming August 25! It's on my Amazon Wishlist.
April 29, 2020
What I Loved:
I really enjoyed that this story was set in our everyday world, but dropped in vampires, shape-shifters, witches, and the humans that hunt them.
How I Felt:
Van Helsing Academy is like an alternative prison for supernatural beings that have broken the law but are not sentenced to death. I wasn’t quite sure about this, but it must also be for only young supernatural beings because it is a school too. There are dorm rooms and classes, and a principle.
Mina Van Helsing a descendant of the original Van Helsing, wakes up in the hospital after being lost for weeks and then in a coma. Her parents, at her hospital bedside, inform her that she was caught on video killing two vampires, but she doesn’t remember anything. Her dad asks her to plead guilty so that she can to into Van Helsing Academy to uncover what really happened.
Her sentencing goes as planned, and she’s given three years in the academy. Before her transfer, she runs into a vampire she recognizes. It turns out he compelled her to kill the two vampires because they were assassins trying to kill him. Mina had created the plan of getting them both placed in the Academy to uncover who is trying to kill him. Now, Mina is headed to the Academy with a mission from her father, and a promise to a vampire. She’s got a lot to do and soon realizes it’s going to be harder than she thought.
I loved the main character Mina. She’s full of confusing feelings about who she can trust, what she’s grown up being taught to think about her world, and how she feels about everything around her. She’s also strong, smart, and kind of awesome.
The romance in the story takes a while to get going, and I would have been okay without it, but it was a fun addition to the plot. I liked the two of them together, and I rooted for them.
The overall story was a lot of fun. It’s a short book and the author doesn’t waste a word. She jumps right into the story, and it moves at a fast pace. I also liked that she was able to provide world building while the story progressed, so I was never confused about what was going on.
Content Warning:
I would position this book as a New Adult story. This is some sexual stuff and language that seems a bit mature for YA.
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend Van Helsing Academy for readers that enjoy a paranormal story with a mixture of magical beings and a romance plot.
I was provided an advanced reader's copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
My full review of this book will post to my blog on 4/29/20. All of my reviews can be found at https://shejustlovesbooks.com/all-boo...
I really enjoyed that this story was set in our everyday world, but dropped in vampires, shape-shifters, witches, and the humans that hunt them.
How I Felt:
Van Helsing Academy is like an alternative prison for supernatural beings that have broken the law but are not sentenced to death. I wasn’t quite sure about this, but it must also be for only young supernatural beings because it is a school too. There are dorm rooms and classes, and a principle.
Mina Van Helsing a descendant of the original Van Helsing, wakes up in the hospital after being lost for weeks and then in a coma. Her parents, at her hospital bedside, inform her that she was caught on video killing two vampires, but she doesn’t remember anything. Her dad asks her to plead guilty so that she can to into Van Helsing Academy to uncover what really happened.
Her sentencing goes as planned, and she’s given three years in the academy. Before her transfer, she runs into a vampire she recognizes. It turns out he compelled her to kill the two vampires because they were assassins trying to kill him. Mina had created the plan of getting them both placed in the Academy to uncover who is trying to kill him. Now, Mina is headed to the Academy with a mission from her father, and a promise to a vampire. She’s got a lot to do and soon realizes it’s going to be harder than she thought.
I loved the main character Mina. She’s full of confusing feelings about who she can trust, what she’s grown up being taught to think about her world, and how she feels about everything around her. She’s also strong, smart, and kind of awesome.
The romance in the story takes a while to get going, and I would have been okay without it, but it was a fun addition to the plot. I liked the two of them together, and I rooted for them.
The overall story was a lot of fun. It’s a short book and the author doesn’t waste a word. She jumps right into the story, and it moves at a fast pace. I also liked that she was able to provide world building while the story progressed, so I was never confused about what was going on.
Content Warning:
I would position this book as a New Adult story. This is some sexual stuff and language that seems a bit mature for YA.
To Read or Not To Read:
I would recommend Van Helsing Academy for readers that enjoy a paranormal story with a mixture of magical beings and a romance plot.
I was provided an advanced reader's copy of this book for free. I am leaving my review voluntarily.
My full review of this book will post to my blog on 4/29/20. All of my reviews can be found at https://shejustlovesbooks.com/all-boo...
Read
April 29, 2020It was all I've been waiting for.
I've been waiting for this book for weeks! Since I first saw it advertised on Facebook. I did recieve an ARC of this book but I was going to read it regardless. Van Helsing us the OG of the supernatural world so I was very intrigued! I was not disappointed.
This was not my first book from this author and won't be my last. Especially since it's only the first book of the series.
So on to the book. Possible spoilers, only minor but be warned. So she is 16. I kind of feel like that is too young for how she acts through the book. More mature maybe as an 18yo. But it doesn't take away from the book. I really liked the whole be the underdog in the team and try to do the right thing and then get taken away and have all memory wiped so she has no idea what really happened. It makes sense that the plan she devised is what her dad would too.
My favorite and wanting more is how she realized that she was living in a bubble and her side was not all the "good" guys. I'm really hoping in the series she is able to change things for the better.
Loved the roommate and their bond. Totally fun. The bad guy I totally didn't see coming and hope here gets his!!! The love interest was swoon worthy. And hoping for more later.
Only a few issues I had. Why not email her parents the evidence when she could?! Why not take more back up for the stand off?!
Ah. I cannot wait for the next one. I read this in one day. Lol. And will reread again later. Lol
I've been waiting for this book for weeks! Since I first saw it advertised on Facebook. I did recieve an ARC of this book but I was going to read it regardless. Van Helsing us the OG of the supernatural world so I was very intrigued! I was not disappointed.
This was not my first book from this author and won't be my last. Especially since it's only the first book of the series.
So on to the book. Possible spoilers, only minor but be warned. So she is 16. I kind of feel like that is too young for how she acts through the book. More mature maybe as an 18yo. But it doesn't take away from the book. I really liked the whole be the underdog in the team and try to do the right thing and then get taken away and have all memory wiped so she has no idea what really happened. It makes sense that the plan she devised is what her dad would too.
My favorite and wanting more is how she realized that she was living in a bubble and her side was not all the "good" guys. I'm really hoping in the series she is able to change things for the better.
Loved the roommate and their bond. Totally fun. The bad guy I totally didn't see coming and hope here gets his!!! The love interest was swoon worthy. And hoping for more later.
Only a few issues I had. Why not email her parents the evidence when she could?! Why not take more back up for the stand off?!
Ah. I cannot wait for the next one. I read this in one day. Lol. And will reread again later. Lol
July 16, 2021
Mina Val Helsing wakes up after being in a coma for two months. There is camera footage of her killing two vampires but she has no memory of this incident. Mina is put on trial and then convicted to Van Helsing Academy which is a supernatural rehab for vampires, shifters, witches, and the ocasional Reaper (like Mina).
Mina is trying to get her memories back and figure out exactly what happened that night. Although she starts out with the mentality that she can’t trust anyone there, she ends up making a few friends along the way.
This book was everything I hoped for! The writing is amazing, the pacing is excellent and I loved the world building. I’m so happy to find out that there are two more books in this series (that are already published so no waiting!!)!
I received this ebook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Mina is trying to get her memories back and figure out exactly what happened that night. Although she starts out with the mentality that she can’t trust anyone there, she ends up making a few friends along the way.
This book was everything I hoped for! The writing is amazing, the pacing is excellent and I loved the world building. I’m so happy to find out that there are two more books in this series (that are already published so no waiting!!)!
I received this ebook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 22, 2020
Well this was a nice start. The characters were okay. Cass fooled me like everyone else. I liked the idea of the compulsion and how they cured it, that was a unique touch. I felt that it was more of a school then a detention center. I would have like to have seen more discipline issues if they were delinquents.
April 29, 2020
(2.5 stars) - Ambivalent (+ some content issues)
The premise for this story readily drew me in. The start seemed kind of odd - a 16 yr old tracking dangerous rogue supes? Seems unlikely. But the writing was good & I became engaged in the story fairly quickly.
Unfortunately, there were weaknesses in the plot that kept my inner cynic nudging me out of the story.
The decision to plea bargain for time at the Academy would likely have raised the suspicions of the people who set Mina up - her intentions wouldn't have been that difficult to second guess. And I would have expected her dad to anticipate that.
Cassius's transition from the jail to the Academy was oddly lacking in details.
The story started to put me off with the totally unnecessary fertility festival. There was no reason for Cassius or Mina to go other than titillating the reader with the imminent beginnings of an orgy. Which we're told wolf boy was getting ready to participate in which means - ew, just no. Boyfriends with STD's aren't romantic. Besides, wolves have life mates.
Anyway, the bit with saving Cassius was kinda weird. And why couldn't Keira have been a possible suspect for something like giving him a small vial of blood after she took off with him?
Why was Cassius so carelessly indiscreet? Why would he risk going to a festival where people would be out of it & out of control?
It's frustrating that you can tell the author is steering the story toward her anticipated outcome nearly the whole time. The security for the Academy is incredibly tight, yet incredibly lax whenever it's convenient to the plot. And of course there are always the convenient people who happen to owe favors.
After saving Cassius, suddenly just like that everybody trusts Mina and wants to be her friend. What happened to all the bad guy supes who had earned their punishment there & would want to kill Mina for it? It seemed as though *everyone* there was supposed to be a victim of the reapers instead.
Multiple points were pretty juvenile. I'd say this is geared more towards jr high to high school, except that there are some content issues that would limit it to older audiences.
With all the plot weaknesses, I did consider bailing, but I have to give the author credit for being able to keep it engaging enough that I wanted to know how it finished. The author should consider seeking out beta readers willing to offer constructive feedback - she has the ability to tell a story well but needs to work on keeping the plot & characters credible.
*Clean romance level: passionate kisses, fertility festival where participants remove their clothes & are about to have sex, make out scene where heroine pulls off hero's shirt & ends up shirtless herself; other than mentioning the occurrence of these things, the author does at least skip the graphic details of them
The premise for this story readily drew me in. The start seemed kind of odd - a 16 yr old tracking dangerous rogue supes? Seems unlikely. But the writing was good & I became engaged in the story fairly quickly.
Unfortunately, there were weaknesses in the plot that kept my inner cynic nudging me out of the story.
The decision to plea bargain for time at the Academy would likely have raised the suspicions of the people who set Mina up - her intentions wouldn't have been that difficult to second guess. And I would have expected her dad to anticipate that.
Cassius's transition from the jail to the Academy was oddly lacking in details.
The story started to put me off with the totally unnecessary fertility festival. There was no reason for Cassius or Mina to go other than titillating the reader with the imminent beginnings of an orgy. Which we're told wolf boy was getting ready to participate in which means - ew, just no. Boyfriends with STD's aren't romantic. Besides, wolves have life mates.
Anyway, the bit with saving Cassius was kinda weird. And why couldn't Keira have been a possible suspect for something like giving him a small vial of blood after she took off with him?
Why was Cassius so carelessly indiscreet? Why would he risk going to a festival where people would be out of it & out of control?
It's frustrating that you can tell the author is steering the story toward her anticipated outcome nearly the whole time. The security for the Academy is incredibly tight, yet incredibly lax whenever it's convenient to the plot. And of course there are always the convenient people who happen to owe favors.
After saving Cassius, suddenly just like that everybody trusts Mina and wants to be her friend. What happened to all the bad guy supes who had earned their punishment there & would want to kill Mina for it? It seemed as though *everyone* there was supposed to be a victim of the reapers instead.
Multiple points were pretty juvenile. I'd say this is geared more towards jr high to high school, except that there are some content issues that would limit it to older audiences.
With all the plot weaknesses, I did consider bailing, but I have to give the author credit for being able to keep it engaging enough that I wanted to know how it finished. The author should consider seeking out beta readers willing to offer constructive feedback - she has the ability to tell a story well but needs to work on keeping the plot & characters credible.
*Clean romance level: passionate kisses, fertility festival where participants remove their clothes & are about to have sex, make out scene where heroine pulls off hero's shirt & ends up shirtless herself; other than mentioning the occurrence of these things, the author does at least skip the graphic details of them
April 29, 2020
When I first laid eyes on Van Helsing Academy I was like oh I got to read this. I have been into vampires, witches and shifters for a long time now and I love the TV show Van Helsing. I have also become attached to academy books lately too. I love the setting in the academy books with the school and all the paranormal creatures and how they all interact with each other.
When I picked up Van Helsing Academy I will have to admit it was not what I was expecting in an academy book but oh I love the twist that it portrays. Van Helsing Academy is different from other books I have read by the fact that the students attending Van Helsing have done something bad or have committed murder and are being rehabilitated for their crimes while other academy books the students are being taught how to use their powers.
Mina Van Helsing wakes up in the hospital and is told that she has been in a coma for a couple of months. She was told that she was caught on camera killing two vampires. Mina has no memory of what happened to her while she was away but she doesn’t believe that she killed anyone.
Mina is put on trial for murder and is convicted and sent to Van Helsing Academy where she hopes she can find answers to what happened to her that awful uneventful night.
At the academy Mina knows that she has a lot of enemies and her life is in danger because of whom and what she is. She knows she can’t trust anyone at the academy and makes a few enemies like the Queen B’s. But Mina does make a new friend while she is there too. She also meets a guy at the academy that causes her temperate to sky rocket every time she is around him.
As Mina is searching for the answers she needs she soon learns that something is going on between the witches, vampires and the shifters. A war between the paranormal creatures is brewing.
Van Helsing Academy is a great introduction into a brand new world of vampires, Witches, Shifters and humans. The world building is just awesome and the characters were just great. I loved how they all got along but at the same time they didn’t either. I also liked that the world setting was in present day or like our real world but then add in vampires, witches, and shifters.
I was hooked from the title and the first page of course. Once I dived into this magical world of Van Helsing Academy I was lost among its pages and didn’t come up for air until I had read the whole thing. The world around me was gone and in its place was Mina’s. I can’t wait to read more in the Van Helsing Academy world with the next book.
Van Helsing Academy is one book that I highly recommend to all vampires, witches, and shifters. And if you like the TV shows like Van Helsing or The Vampire Diaries then you are going to love Van Helsing Academy. One click your copy today!
When I picked up Van Helsing Academy I will have to admit it was not what I was expecting in an academy book but oh I love the twist that it portrays. Van Helsing Academy is different from other books I have read by the fact that the students attending Van Helsing have done something bad or have committed murder and are being rehabilitated for their crimes while other academy books the students are being taught how to use their powers.
Mina Van Helsing wakes up in the hospital and is told that she has been in a coma for a couple of months. She was told that she was caught on camera killing two vampires. Mina has no memory of what happened to her while she was away but she doesn’t believe that she killed anyone.
Mina is put on trial for murder and is convicted and sent to Van Helsing Academy where she hopes she can find answers to what happened to her that awful uneventful night.
At the academy Mina knows that she has a lot of enemies and her life is in danger because of whom and what she is. She knows she can’t trust anyone at the academy and makes a few enemies like the Queen B’s. But Mina does make a new friend while she is there too. She also meets a guy at the academy that causes her temperate to sky rocket every time she is around him.
As Mina is searching for the answers she needs she soon learns that something is going on between the witches, vampires and the shifters. A war between the paranormal creatures is brewing.
Van Helsing Academy is a great introduction into a brand new world of vampires, Witches, Shifters and humans. The world building is just awesome and the characters were just great. I loved how they all got along but at the same time they didn’t either. I also liked that the world setting was in present day or like our real world but then add in vampires, witches, and shifters.
I was hooked from the title and the first page of course. Once I dived into this magical world of Van Helsing Academy I was lost among its pages and didn’t come up for air until I had read the whole thing. The world around me was gone and in its place was Mina’s. I can’t wait to read more in the Van Helsing Academy world with the next book.
Van Helsing Academy is one book that I highly recommend to all vampires, witches, and shifters. And if you like the TV shows like Van Helsing or The Vampire Diaries then you are going to love Van Helsing Academy. One click your copy today!
April 28, 2020
What else can you say when one of your all-time favorite authors decides to try her hand at a new genre? Bring. It. On.
Stacey O’Neale has earned all my bookish praise over the years through her Mortal Enchantment series and her foray into new adult sci-fi romance. But how about tackling the YA Academy genre? Can she swing it? Are you kidding? Of course.
From the very first chapter, O’Neale introduces us to a world where Vampires, Witches, Shifters, and Humans do anything but play nice. When Mina Van Helsing is sentenced to supernatural rehab in the very Academy founded by her great, great grandfather, the supernatural community has a field day. But could Mina have been framed and wrongly imprisoned? Hard to tell when your memory’s been wiped.
This fast-paced, quick read is perfect for fans of the CW dramas of yesteryear with dark, angsty stories in the same vein as The Vampire Diaries. An Academy full of angsty, hormonal, sensitive-yet-terrifying teenage supernaturals, what could go wrong?
Secrets. Love. Supernatural Spies. A hidden Academy in the Black Hills. And one Sup with a dark secret and dangerous agenda.
O’Neale had me hooked from the beginning and I couldn’t let go. It’s a fantastic read to satisfy your paranormal cravings. Perfect for young adult readers looking for their new favorite series. I’m relatively new to the Academy genre and O’Neale has definitely filled an empty space I didn’t know my bookshelf even had.
The characters are fun, well-developed, and laugh-out-loud funny at times, but the dark setting and eerie story will keep readers reeling until the very last page. And let me tell you, you’ll be howling for more. I cannot wait to see what O’Neale has in store next for the Supernatural Rehab series, thankfully we’ll be getting book two in August of 2020!
Five-stars well-deserved.
Stacey O’Neale has earned all my bookish praise over the years through her Mortal Enchantment series and her foray into new adult sci-fi romance. But how about tackling the YA Academy genre? Can she swing it? Are you kidding? Of course.
From the very first chapter, O’Neale introduces us to a world where Vampires, Witches, Shifters, and Humans do anything but play nice. When Mina Van Helsing is sentenced to supernatural rehab in the very Academy founded by her great, great grandfather, the supernatural community has a field day. But could Mina have been framed and wrongly imprisoned? Hard to tell when your memory’s been wiped.
This fast-paced, quick read is perfect for fans of the CW dramas of yesteryear with dark, angsty stories in the same vein as The Vampire Diaries. An Academy full of angsty, hormonal, sensitive-yet-terrifying teenage supernaturals, what could go wrong?
Secrets. Love. Supernatural Spies. A hidden Academy in the Black Hills. And one Sup with a dark secret and dangerous agenda.
O’Neale had me hooked from the beginning and I couldn’t let go. It’s a fantastic read to satisfy your paranormal cravings. Perfect for young adult readers looking for their new favorite series. I’m relatively new to the Academy genre and O’Neale has definitely filled an empty space I didn’t know my bookshelf even had.
The characters are fun, well-developed, and laugh-out-loud funny at times, but the dark setting and eerie story will keep readers reeling until the very last page. And let me tell you, you’ll be howling for more. I cannot wait to see what O’Neale has in store next for the Supernatural Rehab series, thankfully we’ll be getting book two in August of 2020!
Five-stars well-deserved.
May 9, 2020
With a name like Van Helsing, you automatically start looking for things that seem familiar...like her name (Mina), her parents (Lucy and Jonathan), and the ties to the supernatural (self explanatory). What you don't know to look for are the uniquely original characters (Kiera...I ADORE her!), the hunky shouldn't-be-heartthrobs (umm...take your pick...shifter or vampire?), and the bit...I mean, witches with a chip on their shoulders...not to mention the story that goes beyond simply another supernaturally laced romance. There is trouble brewing among the factions, and while someone obviously wanted the Van Helsings fingered in the wrong doing, you simply can't ignore that the underlying someone's and their plans are SO MUCH BIGGER than that. With tension spreading like lightning through a stormy sky, Mina will need all her wits, all her talent, all her learned skills, and all her newly forged connections (even if she was attempting to suffer her three years lone ranger style) if she even hopes to clear her name, let alone save their worlds as they know them, and perhaps improve them.
If you're a Young Adult fan who loves a healthy dose of "paranormal activity" (watch out for that Wiccan festival!), and a plot that twists and turns every time you think you've got it all figured out, this is totally the book for you!
**ebook received for review; opinions are my own
If you're a Young Adult fan who loves a healthy dose of "paranormal activity" (watch out for that Wiccan festival!), and a plot that twists and turns every time you think you've got it all figured out, this is totally the book for you!
**ebook received for review; opinions are my own
May 22, 2020
'Van Helsing Academy' is the exciting new book in a promising new young adult paranormal series that fans of the genre are sure to love. I've read some of the author's other books and really enjoyed them so I had pretty high expectations going into this. Once again, she didn't disappoint and I was swept away into Mina's world.
I liked everything about this novel - from the characters to the world building, the plot to the writing style. I know that the whole supernatural academy/prep school type setting isn't anything new but I really loved how the author put her own spin on things to make it fresh and exciting. I'm a sucker for anything paranormal and this had shifters, witches, vampires and the main character is a Van Helsing. I loved learning everything I could about the academy, the history behind it, Mina's family and their history, along with everything that we were told about each of the supernatural factions. The world building was well done with lots of detailed descriptions and vivid imagery. I could easily imagine myself beside Mina as the story unfolded before her. The other main thing that I really loved was the writing style. If you read any of my reviews, you know that point of view can make or break a book for me. I almost always prefer the first person POV because it lets the reader create a deeper bond with the narrator. I'm so glad that the author decided to write this book in that way. I immediately connected with Mina and by the end of the story, I felt like I had known her forever and had experienced everything alongside her during the story. Mina is a great main character for the book and series. She's smart, strong, loyal, determined to find the truth, and she fights for what she believes. I loved getting to know her during the book. I'm already dying to read the next book in the series. I can't wait to see where the author will take us and what kinds of trouble Mina will get mixed up in. Definitely recommended for fans of YA, fantasy, paranormal, mystery, and readers who like stories set in academies/prep schools and lots of supernatural characters.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I liked everything about this novel - from the characters to the world building, the plot to the writing style. I know that the whole supernatural academy/prep school type setting isn't anything new but I really loved how the author put her own spin on things to make it fresh and exciting. I'm a sucker for anything paranormal and this had shifters, witches, vampires and the main character is a Van Helsing. I loved learning everything I could about the academy, the history behind it, Mina's family and their history, along with everything that we were told about each of the supernatural factions. The world building was well done with lots of detailed descriptions and vivid imagery. I could easily imagine myself beside Mina as the story unfolded before her. The other main thing that I really loved was the writing style. If you read any of my reviews, you know that point of view can make or break a book for me. I almost always prefer the first person POV because it lets the reader create a deeper bond with the narrator. I'm so glad that the author decided to write this book in that way. I immediately connected with Mina and by the end of the story, I felt like I had known her forever and had experienced everything alongside her during the story. Mina is a great main character for the book and series. She's smart, strong, loyal, determined to find the truth, and she fights for what she believes. I loved getting to know her during the book. I'm already dying to read the next book in the series. I can't wait to see where the author will take us and what kinds of trouble Mina will get mixed up in. Definitely recommended for fans of YA, fantasy, paranormal, mystery, and readers who like stories set in academies/prep schools and lots of supernatural characters.
Disclosure: I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2021
For some reason, even though YA isn’t my favorite, I’ve been reading a few lately including this one. However, I think this is the best one I’ve read recently. Yes, the protagonist is only 16, but she’s a very mature 16, and I frequently forgot she’s not older. This book is about how Mina is trying to find out why she killed two vampires, and she must infiltrate the Van Helsing Academy to do it. (Again, speaking of things that aren’t my favorite: academy books.) Even when something happened which I can’t really talk about because spoilers, Mina handled it much better than some adults I know. I also adored Keira probably almost as much as Mina, and I hope she’s in the next one which I am really looking forward to. This was a pleasant surprise, and I highly recommend it. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
August 7, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and Phoenix Reign Publishing for the ARC.
The story is just not for me unfortunately.
I like the idea of the plot and its interesting concepts, but I was not hooked by anything, and I was not interested in learning what happens next.
Fans of paranormal genre should give this a try, as I can see it would appeal to a.lot.
The story is just not for me unfortunately.
I like the idea of the plot and its interesting concepts, but I was not hooked by anything, and I was not interested in learning what happens next.
Fans of paranormal genre should give this a try, as I can see it would appeal to a.lot.
September 13, 2020
Actual rating: 3.5
I really liked the premise of the book, and had so much potential, but the story just fell short for me. There wasn’t much to do with the actual academy, which disappointed me, and I didn’t like the cheesy insta-love between Mina and Sacha. 😖 And who wrote the threatening message to Mina in the bathroom with blood? Was that the bad guy (No spoilers) or someone else? The thing I really liked, though, was the twist at the end with Cassius.
So, all-in-all:
Pros:
• Paranormal characters
• Strong heroine
• Friendship
• Romance
• Twist ending
• Beautiful cover 😍
Cons:
• Lack of academy setting
• Insta love
• Lack of magic
• Lack of time lapse (seriously, the book covered less than two weeks and already she was in love with the alpha shifter and has life-friends)
• Despite there being fairies on the cover, there are no fairies in the actual story.
I really liked the premise of the book, and had so much potential, but the story just fell short for me. There wasn’t much to do with the actual academy, which disappointed me, and I didn’t like the cheesy insta-love between Mina and Sacha. 😖 And who wrote the threatening message to Mina in the bathroom with blood? Was that the bad guy (No spoilers) or someone else? The thing I really liked, though, was the twist at the end with Cassius.
So, all-in-all:
Pros:
• Paranormal characters
• Strong heroine
• Friendship
• Romance
• Twist ending
• Beautiful cover 😍
Cons:
• Lack of academy setting
• Insta love
• Lack of magic
• Lack of time lapse (seriously, the book covered less than two weeks and already she was in love with the alpha shifter and has life-friends)
• Despite there being fairies on the cover, there are no fairies in the actual story.
May 4, 2020
**Review can be found at https://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
Mina has spent all her short life training to be a Reaper, the human police that keep the supernatural communities in check, trying to live up to her Van Helsing name. When on a mission, something unexpected happens and next thing Mina knows is that she in a hospital, weeks are missing from her memory and she is accused of murder. Mina is about to embark on the most dangerous mission yet, except this time she will be alone and only have her wits to keep her safe.
I really loved this book! I went into the story with no expectations or info, basically a blank slate and ended up discovering a fast paced engaging read that I could not put down until I reached the end- and now I am attempting to patiently wait the few months until the next book comes out. Van Helsing Academy fits perfectly into my current magical academy obsession, with a reform/therapy aspect to it that changes things up a little bit. This is the way all retellings should be, with a touch of the original story as the backbone to create something so fun and different. I loved that this was very much so a mystery, it just so happened to be set in a supernatural world full of all kinds of paranormal creatures, and there was the added bonus that I loved of having a romance too. I found the plot to be twisty with all kinds of surprises, both good and bad, that kept me on my toes and the supernatural world building was detailed and unique.
This is the second book I have read from this author, two different series, and I can easily say that she writes great characters who are conflicted and flawed but you root for them anyway. I enjoyed that while Mina had the capabilities to be the special snowflake "chosen one", she wasn't- instead she was a hard worker who tried to always do the right thing, even if that meant she had to fight for it. I think this is the perfect next read for anyone who likes who like me enjoys the magical academy genre, fans of werewolf shenanigans, capable girls ready to save the day and detailed conspiracies!
Mina has spent all her short life training to be a Reaper, the human police that keep the supernatural communities in check, trying to live up to her Van Helsing name. When on a mission, something unexpected happens and next thing Mina knows is that she in a hospital, weeks are missing from her memory and she is accused of murder. Mina is about to embark on the most dangerous mission yet, except this time she will be alone and only have her wits to keep her safe.
I really loved this book! I went into the story with no expectations or info, basically a blank slate and ended up discovering a fast paced engaging read that I could not put down until I reached the end- and now I am attempting to patiently wait the few months until the next book comes out. Van Helsing Academy fits perfectly into my current magical academy obsession, with a reform/therapy aspect to it that changes things up a little bit. This is the way all retellings should be, with a touch of the original story as the backbone to create something so fun and different. I loved that this was very much so a mystery, it just so happened to be set in a supernatural world full of all kinds of paranormal creatures, and there was the added bonus that I loved of having a romance too. I found the plot to be twisty with all kinds of surprises, both good and bad, that kept me on my toes and the supernatural world building was detailed and unique.
This is the second book I have read from this author, two different series, and I can easily say that she writes great characters who are conflicted and flawed but you root for them anyway. I enjoyed that while Mina had the capabilities to be the special snowflake "chosen one", she wasn't- instead she was a hard worker who tried to always do the right thing, even if that meant she had to fight for it. I think this is the perfect next read for anyone who likes who like me enjoys the magical academy genre, fans of werewolf shenanigans, capable girls ready to save the day and detailed conspiracies!
May 9, 2020
There is trouble in the supernatural world of shifters, vampires and witches and Mina Van Helsing is stuck in the middle. As a Reaper, a direct descendant of the Van Helsing himself, Mina has trained her entire life to police the supernatural beings who break the pacts agreed upon long ago. On a mission gone wrong, Mina is captured and injured. She wakes up with no recollection of the past few weeks except for strange fragments. There is video evidence however of Mina killing two vampires without cause and for this, Mina must be punished. Mina's parents know there is something bigger at play and have Mina sentenced to Van Helsing Academy, a rehabilitation center for wayward supernatural beings. Mina's sentence is not just punishment, she is directed to find out the secret plot that framed her for the vampire deaths and might begin a war between the factions.
Van Helsing Academy is a fun and exciting paranormal romance. Mina's character is gracious, smart and not afraid to go against the status quo. I really liked the idea of the Van Helsing Academy and that there were supernatural beings all around. The plot was intense with multiple factions, secrets and intrigues. The characters were all distinct. I loved Kiera, her friendship and willingness to open up to Mina allowed Mina to realize that not all was well at the Academy and that supernatural beings were not the stereotypes that she believed. Mina's open-mindedness helps her to see that all is not right at the Academy and that all that she was told may not be true. Cassius, the vampire prince and the other vampires were sleek, sexy and secretive. The shifters and Sacha, the Alpha were strong, courageous and handsome. The romance took a while to build, but felt right. There were definitely some great steamy sections that put this book more in the New Adult category. The ending brings together many revelations and a lot of action with a cliff hanger. I will be diving into the next book as soon as it comes out.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
Van Helsing Academy is a fun and exciting paranormal romance. Mina's character is gracious, smart and not afraid to go against the status quo. I really liked the idea of the Van Helsing Academy and that there were supernatural beings all around. The plot was intense with multiple factions, secrets and intrigues. The characters were all distinct. I loved Kiera, her friendship and willingness to open up to Mina allowed Mina to realize that not all was well at the Academy and that supernatural beings were not the stereotypes that she believed. Mina's open-mindedness helps her to see that all is not right at the Academy and that all that she was told may not be true. Cassius, the vampire prince and the other vampires were sleek, sexy and secretive. The shifters and Sacha, the Alpha were strong, courageous and handsome. The romance took a while to build, but felt right. There were definitely some great steamy sections that put this book more in the New Adult category. The ending brings together many revelations and a lot of action with a cliff hanger. I will be diving into the next book as soon as it comes out.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
June 23, 2021
So as I remain unwell in bed for the week, I have managed to get round reading some of these ARCS I have had piled up and I actually really enjoyed this one.
This book is vampire academy meets hex hall and I was so for it. I initially got sucked in by the premise and I did end up reading this book in one sitting.
- definitely an easy read and the plot and pacing was decent and captivating enough that I felt engrossed enough in the story. I will say, I can’t mark this book any higher than three stars for three reasons (the predictability, the annoyance of our main character and the ending) however, this is definitely the type of book that would be good to get you out of a reading slump.
- which brings me onto the characters. first of all, sacha was okay - nothing particularly special about him and it took me as the author was trying to make him come across as this alpha male character (ironically) but he was really…soft in a way I didn’t expect. this want necessarily a bad thing it just wasn’t expected. I found mina to be really erratic and her decisions were weird, especially considering the training she’s had. she wasn’t a logical thinker and I honestly couldn’t see where she was coming from in some of her decision making. also, the romance was quite insta-love and if you know me, I like a good ole slow burn.
- the ending ended well…abruptly. I definitely think more could have been added to make the ending left on a better cliffhanger as I turned the page and that was it. It felt short and sudden and I was like ‘??’
Overall, this book is a good start to what could be a good series I see doing well on platforms such as KU.
I received this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book is vampire academy meets hex hall and I was so for it. I initially got sucked in by the premise and I did end up reading this book in one sitting.
- definitely an easy read and the plot and pacing was decent and captivating enough that I felt engrossed enough in the story. I will say, I can’t mark this book any higher than three stars for three reasons (the predictability, the annoyance of our main character and the ending) however, this is definitely the type of book that would be good to get you out of a reading slump.
- which brings me onto the characters. first of all, sacha was okay - nothing particularly special about him and it took me as the author was trying to make him come across as this alpha male character (ironically) but he was really…soft in a way I didn’t expect. this want necessarily a bad thing it just wasn’t expected. I found mina to be really erratic and her decisions were weird, especially considering the training she’s had. she wasn’t a logical thinker and I honestly couldn’t see where she was coming from in some of her decision making. also, the romance was quite insta-love and if you know me, I like a good ole slow burn.
- the ending ended well…abruptly. I definitely think more could have been added to make the ending left on a better cliffhanger as I turned the page and that was it. It felt short and sudden and I was like ‘??’
Overall, this book is a good start to what could be a good series I see doing well on platforms such as KU.
I received this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2021
It's been a while since I've read a YA Paranormal book and the beginning pulled me with the intensity, making me forget how old the characters were. So, when the cliche formula plot lines came out of nowhere, hitting me in every angle that I was afraid I wasn't going to finish this book. That I was going to set this book down and never look back.
However, the plot held on tight making it hard not to continue and find out what's going to happen next! The cliches ended up wrapping me in a tight embrace, pulling on my nostalgia heart strings even though I did roll my eyes sometimes. They were comforting and this story was easy to fall into, no matter if I set it down and didn't get back to it until a couple days later.
If you love bantering love interests, the drama of does he like me or not then this is definitely your cup of tea. Beside all the juicy relationship drama I enjoyed watching Mina realize her world isn't all black and white. That the Reapers who police the supernaturals may not actually be sticking to the code. That maybe she finally needs to put her last name to good use to finally change things for the better, I'm very curious to see how she'll do that. The ending alone was a whirlwind, I was standing on the tips of my toes as everything unfolded and crumbled within the community!
Overall, after how everything ended I'm dying to pick up the next book! When things felt a little too good to be true, a twist comes out of nowhere and I'm honestly shocked I didn't see it coming. There was so much going on and so many emotions within the main character, just liked her you get fooled. So after this, I'm excited to see how her character grows even more! Definitely a book I recommend if you love drama, mystery, haters to lovers, and fantasy stories!
*was given a copy from the author for my honest opinion*
However, the plot held on tight making it hard not to continue and find out what's going to happen next! The cliches ended up wrapping me in a tight embrace, pulling on my nostalgia heart strings even though I did roll my eyes sometimes. They were comforting and this story was easy to fall into, no matter if I set it down and didn't get back to it until a couple days later.
If you love bantering love interests, the drama of does he like me or not then this is definitely your cup of tea. Beside all the juicy relationship drama I enjoyed watching Mina realize her world isn't all black and white. That the Reapers who police the supernaturals may not actually be sticking to the code. That maybe she finally needs to put her last name to good use to finally change things for the better, I'm very curious to see how she'll do that. The ending alone was a whirlwind, I was standing on the tips of my toes as everything unfolded and crumbled within the community!
Overall, after how everything ended I'm dying to pick up the next book! When things felt a little too good to be true, a twist comes out of nowhere and I'm honestly shocked I didn't see it coming. There was so much going on and so many emotions within the main character, just liked her you get fooled. So after this, I'm excited to see how her character grows even more! Definitely a book I recommend if you love drama, mystery, haters to lovers, and fantasy stories!
*was given a copy from the author for my honest opinion*
June 14, 2020
Mina Van Helsing. Teenager. Warrior. Great, great granddaughter to the man that ended centuries of violence by getting supernaturals to agree to a code of laws and created the Van Helsing Academy for Rehabilitation in order to help the offenders reform. Mina just never thought that she would find herself in there.
She does when she inexplicably goes missing for 2 weeks with no memory and a surveillance video appears with her killing 2 vampires in what appears to be cold blood. Wanting to find out who has framed her, where she was, and clear her name, Mina pleas guilty and her sentencing allow her into the Van Helsing Academy for rehabilitation. In there, she discovers so much more than she expected: an assassin attempt, a friend, a boyfriend, and supernaturals that have been oppressed by reapers. Mina has never been normal, but she finds that her name is a burden and a gift as well. How will she use her talents to solve the mystery of the assassination attempt before being caught by the headmaster so she can clear her name and bring light to the blight of the supernaturals in the academy.
It's a well written fast paced book that allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in this world of shifters, vampires, witches, and reapers. I would recommend this for a nice beach read or a cozy rainy day read with a hot cup of tea. O'Neale has created characters that are highly enjoyable as well as villainous. I cannot wait to see where the next book takes us.
This book was given in exchange for a fair and honest review.
She does when she inexplicably goes missing for 2 weeks with no memory and a surveillance video appears with her killing 2 vampires in what appears to be cold blood. Wanting to find out who has framed her, where she was, and clear her name, Mina pleas guilty and her sentencing allow her into the Van Helsing Academy for rehabilitation. In there, she discovers so much more than she expected: an assassin attempt, a friend, a boyfriend, and supernaturals that have been oppressed by reapers. Mina has never been normal, but she finds that her name is a burden and a gift as well. How will she use her talents to solve the mystery of the assassination attempt before being caught by the headmaster so she can clear her name and bring light to the blight of the supernaturals in the academy.
It's a well written fast paced book that allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in this world of shifters, vampires, witches, and reapers. I would recommend this for a nice beach read or a cozy rainy day read with a hot cup of tea. O'Neale has created characters that are highly enjoyable as well as villainous. I cannot wait to see where the next book takes us.
This book was given in exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 14, 2021
Van Helsing Academy is the first book in the young adult Supernatural Rehab series by Stacey O'Neale. Mina can't remember anything about the night she was attacked. All she knows is what she's been told: she got separated from her team during a mission and turned up two months later covered in cuts and bruises alongside two dead vampires. After being blamed for their deaths, she is sentenced to three years at the supernatural rehabilitation center, the Van Helsing Academy. As Mina searches for answers, lies are slowly unraveled and alliances forged. Soon she will uncover a secret plot that threatens to destroy her family legacy and ignite a war between the supernatural factions.
Van Helsing Academy is a solid series opener. I thought that the world and character building was well done. There were many of the usual boarding school tropes, but there were definitely deviations from that as well. I liked the development for Mina, and while I was not always happy with her I thought she was consistent and true to character. There were some high points, and I enjoyed those very much. To be honest, I saw at least some of the big twists coming. There were some hints and dropped bits of information that I really expected to become important, and maybe they do later in the series, but I felt like some great potential was there and just not followed through. So many possible twists or characters that were left behind.
Van Helsing Academy is a good read, and I think fans of the genre will really enjoy it.
Van Helsing Academy is a solid series opener. I thought that the world and character building was well done. There were many of the usual boarding school tropes, but there were definitely deviations from that as well. I liked the development for Mina, and while I was not always happy with her I thought she was consistent and true to character. There were some high points, and I enjoyed those very much. To be honest, I saw at least some of the big twists coming. There were some hints and dropped bits of information that I really expected to become important, and maybe they do later in the series, but I felt like some great potential was there and just not followed through. So many possible twists or characters that were left behind.
Van Helsing Academy is a good read, and I think fans of the genre will really enjoy it.
July 31, 2021
What a unique and fun story! I'm excited to see where this series ends up going!
Mina (yes, I know) is a Van Helsing. They are part of the supernatural legacy, which in this world includes setting up a rehabilitation facility for supernaturals that step out of line. The group tasked with policing supernaturals is where we meet Mina. She's got a little bit of an issue with authority, and it's that mindset that ends up putting her alone and in trouble. When she resurfaces, she's got some missing time, but has been recorded on camera killing two vampires.
This killing ends up sending Mina into the same rehab facility that she visited as a kid, but this time is in a very different capacity. There's clearly more at play here, so her father endorses her getting sentenced to the facility in order to gather more intel. This facility is nothing like I expected. It's more like a boarding school with very harsh punishments. The characters we meet here are also pretty amazing. Are there bad guys? Sure, but the majority of the characters that we meet are sympathetic paranormals all there for questionable reasons.
So, what's missing? Well, of course there's romance! It really sizzle between Mina and Sacha, an alpha who seems just as reluctant to like her as she is him. These two, however, end up being the best support system (other than Kiera, of course!). We get some resolution to Mina's mystery, but there is so much more I want to know. I can't wait to see where she ends up in future installments and they can't get here fast enough!
Mina (yes, I know) is a Van Helsing. They are part of the supernatural legacy, which in this world includes setting up a rehabilitation facility for supernaturals that step out of line. The group tasked with policing supernaturals is where we meet Mina. She's got a little bit of an issue with authority, and it's that mindset that ends up putting her alone and in trouble. When she resurfaces, she's got some missing time, but has been recorded on camera killing two vampires.
This killing ends up sending Mina into the same rehab facility that she visited as a kid, but this time is in a very different capacity. There's clearly more at play here, so her father endorses her getting sentenced to the facility in order to gather more intel. This facility is nothing like I expected. It's more like a boarding school with very harsh punishments. The characters we meet here are also pretty amazing. Are there bad guys? Sure, but the majority of the characters that we meet are sympathetic paranormals all there for questionable reasons.
So, what's missing? Well, of course there's romance! It really sizzle between Mina and Sacha, an alpha who seems just as reluctant to like her as she is him. These two, however, end up being the best support system (other than Kiera, of course!). We get some resolution to Mina's mystery, but there is so much more I want to know. I can't wait to see where she ends up in future installments and they can't get here fast enough!
July 7, 2021
This was a light, fast-paced read and I quite enjoyed it.
The overall idea of Rehab Academy for Supernaturals was interesting. Nonetheless, I found the worldbuilding lacking and the plot felt too rushed and a bit predictable. I would have loved to know more about the different factions of supernaturals and the covenant they stipulated. Also, Mina raised in me some perplexities. Despite her self-declared wariness to supernaturals, she seemed far too trustful
Nonetheless, I think this has potential as a series and I can imagine that a younger audience could likely appreciate this book glossing over its flaws more easily than me.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
The overall idea of Rehab Academy for Supernaturals was interesting. Nonetheless, I found the worldbuilding lacking and the plot felt too rushed and a bit predictable. I would have loved to know more about the different factions of supernaturals and the covenant they stipulated. Also, Mina raised in me some perplexities. Despite her self-declared wariness to supernaturals, she seemed far too trustful
Nonetheless, I think this has potential as a series and I can imagine that a younger audience could likely appreciate this book glossing over its flaws more easily than me.
*Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
July 14, 2021
This is the perfect read for fans of the vampire academy. This book has a wider range of supernaturals and while it is a school it's also a juvenile detention centre for supes and reapers who have seriously harmed or killed others.
The students don't appear to fit with the juvenile delinquent mould and I'm sure this will be further explored in the series but I would have liked a bit more detail around the discrepancy between what the reapers are supposed to do and how they are actually behaving.
Boy did that ending give me whiplash. Everything happens in the last few chapters of the book and it all became an rushed jumble. I had to remind myself that Mina is a teenager and while she likes to think she's an adult she makes foolish mistakes and even has a wobbler when she is overwhelmed by guilt. It was frustrating to read but in the context of teenage behavior it is understandable.
There was some issues that I highlighted that impacted my rating but overall I loved the premise and I hope the next in the series is more like I hoped.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The students don't appear to fit with the juvenile delinquent mould and I'm sure this will be further explored in the series but I would have liked a bit more detail around the discrepancy between what the reapers are supposed to do and how they are actually behaving.
Boy did that ending give me whiplash. Everything happens in the last few chapters of the book and it all became an rushed jumble. I had to remind myself that Mina is a teenager and while she likes to think she's an adult she makes foolish mistakes and even has a wobbler when she is overwhelmed by guilt. It was frustrating to read but in the context of teenage behavior it is understandable.
There was some issues that I highlighted that impacted my rating but overall I loved the premise and I hope the next in the series is more like I hoped.
I received an arc of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 15, 2021
I received a copy of this book courtesy of NetGalley.
Mina Van Helsing is a warrior. Trained since childhood to become one of the human military force tasked with controlling and imprisoning the wrongdoer supernatural. And she's a good one. Descendant of the great hunter Van Helsing himself, Mina has legacy to uphold.
This gets put in jeopardy when she gets accused of murdering two vampires and has no memory of it happening. Despite the amnesia she gets sent to the Van Helsing Academy, a place to rehab the supernatural.
Can Mina find out the truth behind those murders?
Honestly I really liked this book. I found the characters very fresh and interesting. The story is very enthralling but easy to follow along, and the humor is on point.
I might also add the music references show immaculate musical taste ✨.
There are humans, wizards, shifters (werewolfs), and vampires involved. There's inside wars, folklore, technology. I think this book definitely had it all.
Overall I think it was a very cute, easy read and I'm really interested in reading the second book.
Mina Van Helsing is a warrior. Trained since childhood to become one of the human military force tasked with controlling and imprisoning the wrongdoer supernatural. And she's a good one. Descendant of the great hunter Van Helsing himself, Mina has legacy to uphold.
This gets put in jeopardy when she gets accused of murdering two vampires and has no memory of it happening. Despite the amnesia she gets sent to the Van Helsing Academy, a place to rehab the supernatural.
Can Mina find out the truth behind those murders?
Honestly I really liked this book. I found the characters very fresh and interesting. The story is very enthralling but easy to follow along, and the humor is on point.
I might also add the music references show immaculate musical taste ✨.
There are humans, wizards, shifters (werewolfs), and vampires involved. There's inside wars, folklore, technology. I think this book definitely had it all.
Overall I think it was a very cute, easy read and I'm really interested in reading the second book.
June 29, 2021
3/5 ✨
It was good. It had pretty good writing and the plot held for the most part. It just switched randomly sometimes. Also Mina's logic was kinda annoying. She would be like "I'm not going to make friends" then literally two second later would change her mind. The reasoning of why she went and did things also was pretty shaky.
I did appreciate the branching out from the relationship norm. She didn't make you wait for the romance. It was kinda insta lust but that's to be expected. I love that Sacha is Russian.
Hopefully, in book 2, Mina's powers and the "supes" powers are explained. Not a deal breaker but I also hated the supes term being used so frequently. But that's more of a personal preference.
It was an enjoyable read for what it was. I didn't feel like it had anything special. Pretty average in all honesty. I haven't decided if I'll read book 2 or not.
Thank you Net Galley and Stacey o'neale for the ARC.
It was good. It had pretty good writing and the plot held for the most part. It just switched randomly sometimes. Also Mina's logic was kinda annoying. She would be like "I'm not going to make friends" then literally two second later would change her mind. The reasoning of why she went and did things also was pretty shaky.
I did appreciate the branching out from the relationship norm. She didn't make you wait for the romance. It was kinda insta lust but that's to be expected. I love that Sacha is Russian.
Hopefully, in book 2, Mina's powers and the "supes" powers are explained. Not a deal breaker but I also hated the supes term being used so frequently. But that's more of a personal preference.
It was an enjoyable read for what it was. I didn't feel like it had anything special. Pretty average in all honesty. I haven't decided if I'll read book 2 or not.
Thank you Net Galley and Stacey o'neale for the ARC.
June 29, 2021
3/5 ✨
It was good. It had pretty good writing and the plot held for the most part. It just switched randomly sometimes. Also Mina's logic was kinda annoying. She would be like "I'm not going to make friends" then literally two second later would change her mind. The reasoning of why she went and did things also was pretty shaky.
I did appreciate the branching out from the relationship norm. She didn't make you wait for the romance. It was kinda insta lust but that's to be expected. I love that Sacha is Russian.
Hopefully, in book 2, Mina's powers and the "supes" powers are explained. Not a deal breaker but I also hated the supes term being used so frequently. But that's more of a personal preference.
It was an enjoyable read for what it was. I didn't feel like it had anything special. Pretty average in all honesty. I haven't decided if I'll read book 2 or not.
It was good. It had pretty good writing and the plot held for the most part. It just switched randomly sometimes. Also Mina's logic was kinda annoying. She would be like "I'm not going to make friends" then literally two second later would change her mind. The reasoning of why she went and did things also was pretty shaky.
I did appreciate the branching out from the relationship norm. She didn't make you wait for the romance. It was kinda insta lust but that's to be expected. I love that Sacha is Russian.
Hopefully, in book 2, Mina's powers and the "supes" powers are explained. Not a deal breaker but I also hated the supes term being used so frequently. But that's more of a personal preference.
It was an enjoyable read for what it was. I didn't feel like it had anything special. Pretty average in all honesty. I haven't decided if I'll read book 2 or not.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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