Arcana Academy Read Along Week Three: Death, Secrets, and Rising Tension

Welcome back to our Arcana Academy Read Along! In week three of Elise Kova’s Arcana Academy, the stakes are higher than ever—friendships are tested, secrets unravel, and the romance is heating up in ways I can’t get enough of. Let’s dive into everything that went down in this explosive section of the book.

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Kel’s Death and the Aftermath

One of the most shocking twists this week? Kel’s death. Luren’s reversal of the card had brutal consequences, and the fact that Luren isn’t even allowed to grieve or say goodbye hits hard. And Professor V’s reaction? Forcing Clara to clean up the blood raises huge questions—what does he know, and what is he hiding?

Kaelis and Clara: Trust, Desire, and Tension

Kaelis’s protectiveness continues to shine through. From sheltering Clara after tragedy to standing by her during political schemes, his affection is growing clearer with every chapter. Their “almost kiss” and the layered tension of his shyness, awkwardness, and quiet protectiveness make their romance deliciously complicated.

I especially loved the moment straight out of The Hating Game—Clara accuses Kaelis of hating her, but she can’t actually find the evidence to back it up. Their chemistry is undeniable, but convincing others of their love? That’s another story.

Luren’s Growth and Clara’s Power

Clara helping Luren find her strengths and giving her a role in the festival was beautiful. And when Clara gives away one of her coins—changing Luren’s fate—it reveals just how powerful her arcana gift really is. Clara’s ability to shift luck feels like it will play a huge role in the series moving forward.

Assassinations, Secrets, and the Twenty

The assassination attempt brought both violence and suspicion. One of the attackers recognized Clara, raising chilling questions about her ties to the rebellion and what her past might mean for her future. And then there’s the king, who witnessed her use forbidden magic—because she’s one of the Twenty. The tension is building, and every reveal makes things more dangerous.

Family, Loyalty, and Betrayal

Clara’s grief deepens when she finds her sister Arina’s body near the Fool’s workshop. Kaelis stands by her, steady and strong, but Clara’s loyalties remain divided between him and the Star Crossed Club. The haunting presence of her mother—and her mother’s warnings—only deepen the sense of mystery.

Silas is another big question mark. Is he ally or enemy? Their cryptic “are you on my side?” exchange left me hungry for answers, and I can’t help but hope Elise Kova will deliver a major reveal by the end of this book.

Final Thoughts

Week three brought us heartbreak, betrayal, and romantic tension that has me completely hooked. Clara and Kaelis’s connection is evolving beautifully, but the secrets, the Twenty, and the rebellion promise plenty of danger ahead.

I can’t wait to finish the last chapters with you next week—drop your thoughts and predictions in the comments!

Until then, happy reading.

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The Magic (and Chaos) of Week Three—On Video

Want to see me react in real time? Catch my Week Three vlog for Arcana Academy—complete with rants, laughter, and a little too much side-eye—right here