Spellcaster by Jaymin Eve
on September 23, 2025
Published by Harlequin Genres: Dark Academia, Fiction / Fantasy / Dark Fantasy, Fiction / Fantasy / Dragons & Mythical Creatures, Fiction / Romance / Fantasy, Fiction / Romance / New Adult
Format: ARC
Pages: 336

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Spice Rating: 2.5/5
My Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3 out of 5)
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The Vibe

If you’re in the mood for magical colleges, broody rivals, elemental affinities, and a bit of romantic tension thrown into a fast paced fantasy setting, Spellcaster might scratch that itch. It’s the kind of book that delivers the familiar beats we’ve all come to expect in Dark Academia, with a likable main character, a compelling magic system, and some mid open door spice. That said, it didn’t quite cast a spell on me.
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What Worked

Let’s start with what I liked. Paisley is a solid FMC. She’s funny, self-aware, and not overly perfect. Her voice felt real, which I appreciated. And her back and forth with Logan? Classic enemies to lovers slow burn, and done well enough to keep me turning the pages. I also really enjoyed the magical world Jaymin Eve built here, especially the concept of spellcasters being rare, dangerous, and kind of unpredictable. There’s something satisfying about a character who has power that even she doesn’t fully understand yet.
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The pacing is quick, the action scenes are clear, and there’s definitely something appealing about the whole “we must work together even though we hate each other” setup. Bonus points for a strong female friendship and a found family feel with Paisley’s support circle.
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Where It Fell Short

But here's where it lost me a little. The world building felt more told than shown, and I never quite sank into the magical system the way I wanted to. It was interesting, sure, but I kept waiting for the depth that never fully came. Some of the emotional arcs, particularly the romantic development and Paisley’s backstory, felt a little rushed or undercooked. I could see the bones of something really strong, but it didn’t quite flesh out the way it could have.

And then there’s the ending. It ends on a cliffhanger, which isn't a deal breaker, buuut I didn’t feel quite invested enough to be dying for the next one. I’m curious, but not desperate.
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Spice Level Check-In

There is spice, yes. But it’s mild comparatively. Think mild tension and some open door heat, but nothing too explicit or intense. I’d give it a 2.5 out of 5 in terms of spice. There’s chemistry, but this isn’t one of those reads that leaves you fanning yourself.
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Final Thoughts

Spellcaster had its moments, and I’m glad I read it. It didn’t blow me away, but it didn’t leave me frustrated either. It sits squarely in the “decent setup, curious to see what’s next” category. If you enjoy magical academies, broody tension, and light romantasy with a fast pace and approachable characters, you’ll probably have a good time.
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Will I read the next book? Maybe. I’m not enchanted yet, but I’m still watching.
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Thank You as always to NetGalley, the Publisher and the author for this ARC copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
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🫶🏻 - Ali

Source: NetGalley and the Publisher

This post contains affiliate links you can use to purchase the book. If you buy the book using that link, I will receive a small commission from the sale.

I received this book for free from NetGalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Rating Report
Plot
Characters
Writing
Pacing
World Building
Overall:

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