So, I dove into Zodiac Academy: Ruthless Fae expecting some epic fantasy drama — and wow, did it deliver… but in the most unexpected ways.
Picture this: a magical academy bursting with every mythical creature you can imagine, plus powers, secrets, and enough plot twists to keep you guessing. At first, I was a bit overwhelmed — like someone dumped a glittering, chaotic fantasy smoothie in my lap and said, “Drink up!” But stick with it, because the world-building grows on you in a way that’s both dazzling and addictive.
I have to say, my favorite characters quickly became Caleb, Darius, and Tory — they bring so much depth and fire to the story. And I absolutely loved the tension between Orion and Darcy. Forbidden romance is totally my guilty pleasure, and they delivered all the feels. Plus, the professor relationships? Yep, shame on me, but I’m hooked. There’s just something about a complicated teacher dynamic that I can’t resist. Don’t judge me.
It’s not perfect — expect some “Wait, what?” moments and a whirlwind of new concepts to catch up on — but the emotional punch and surprising depth make it worth the ride. Honestly, it felt like binge-watching a reality TV show where the drama keeps you glued to the screen, just like my sister says. If this book were a snack, it’d be one of those messy, overly salty chips you can’t stop eating even though your taste buds are screaming for mercy.
Three stars for a wild, magical adventure that’s a little bonkers but totally entertaining. If you’re ready to get lost in a fantasy world that’s equal parts chaotic and charming, this book has your name on it.
Bonus idea: Bake yourself a batch of salted caramel brownies while reading — because the sweet and salty chaos of the book pairs perfectly with the sweet and salty chaos of dessert. Trust me.
Cozy Twisted Salted Caramel Brownies
Because sometimes a little magic means adding coffee and chocolate chips to your caramel brownies — and honestly, what could be better? Perfect for baking on a day when you want to escape into a fantasy world (or just want a legit excuse to eat brownies for breakfast).
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp instant espresso powder (trust me on this)
- 1/3 cup cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (classic or salted bourbon caramel if you’re feeling fancy)
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (dark or semi-sweet)
- Flaky sea salt, for sprinkling
- Optional: a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a sneaky warm kick
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line an 8×8 inch pan with parchment paper or grease it well.
- Melt the butter and stir in the sugar until shiny and smooth. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla and espresso powder. (The espresso makes the chocolate pop in the best way.)
- Mix in the cocoa powder, flour, salt, baking powder, and optional cinnamon or chili powder until just combined.
- Fold in half the chocolate chips — because melty chocolate pockets are non-negotiable.
- Pour half the batter into your pan, drizzle half the caramel sauce over it, then dollop the rest of the batter on top. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over everything.
- Take a knife and swirl the caramel through the batter to make those gorgeous gooey ribbons.
- Sprinkle the remaining chocolate chips and flaky sea salt over the top for that perfect salty-sweet crunch.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick comes out with just a few moist crumbs (no one likes dry brownies, am I right?). Let cool before slicing.
Pro tip: Serve warm with a cup of coffee or your favorite cozy drink, and maybe a good book — because life’s all about balance.
Happy Reading!
Taylor
