Immortal Consequences
Immortal Consequences by I.V. Marie blends dark academia, soul-reaping magic, and an emotionally rich ensemble cast in this gripping YA fantasy debut. From enemies-to-lovers romance to deadly magical trials, this is a story about identity, second chances, and found family.
Author: I.V. Marie
Series: The Souls of Blackwood Academy #1
Release Date: July 29, 2025
Genre: Fantasy, Dark Academia, Young Adult
Publication Type: ARC from NetGalley
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ (4.5/5)
I.V. Marie
Synopsis
SIX RIVALS. ONE VICTOR. ETERNITY IS ONLY THE BEGINNING.
Six students compete to change their fate at a darkly enchanted boarding school in purgatory where graduation is the only escape—and love can cross the boundaries between life and death.
Welcome to Blackwood Academy: the legendary school located on the fringes of the afterlife. Once a pupil enters the academy’s arched gates, there is no way out…except the Decennial, a cut-throat magical competition with only one victor.
This year, six of the Academy’s top students have been chosen to face the Decennial’s tests. Two academic archrivals, whose strange connection blurs the lines between obsession and hate. One girl driven solely by ambition, and another plagued by memories of the love she lost. And a charming playboy who never cared for anyone—until he met the academy’s newest student. But what none of them know? They aren’t the only ones playing Blackwood’s game.
Who will win, and who will fall? Only one thing is for certain: in this game, some fates are worse than death.
Initial Impressions
I first came across Immortal Consequences by I.V. Marie on BookTok, where it kept popping up in anticipated YA fantasy release lists. When a book consistently shows up from different content creators, I get curious and check it out on Kindle or Goodreads. I was especially intrigued by the synopsis hinting at an academic rivals-to-lovers trope, a shy-popular dynamic, and an elite magical competition among six students. The fact that it was one of the most requested ARCs on NetGalley sealed the deal for me.
Right from the opening chapter, I was hooked. The story unfolds through multiple points of view, rotating between six main characters. The book opens with Wren, one half of the tension-filled rivals-to-lovers relationship. Right off the bat, you can already feel the tension between her and August.
Atmosphere & Setting
Set in a supernatural boarding school located in purgatory, the atmosphere in Immortal Consequences is ethereal, cold, and steeped in mystery. There’s no sun or moon, just a silvery glow that veils everything. The school operates under the guise of balance, with signs of both life and death lingering in every corner.
New students are rare, appearing only once every few decades. They are trained to become soul reapers – eternally bound to harvest lost souls – unless they’re selected for the Decennial. Those who are chosen must survive four deadly trials for a chance at a different fate.
Although the academy is built on routine and tradition, mysterious events have started disrupting the norm, setting the tone for an unfolding conflict.
Plot & Pacing
The plot was engaging and easy to follow. The pacing was steady. The world-building was introduced gradually throughout the chapters and wasn’t info-dumped on the reader. Bits and pieces of the lore are revealed as the story unfolds, which keeps the reader curious without becoming confusing.
There’s a constant undercurrent of mystery surrounding the strange occurrences at the academy. Just when you think you’ve figured things out, you get another plot twist especially in the last few chapters. I appreciated how the story kept its momentum throughout and how the multiple POVs added depth rather than distraction.
Characters & Development
One of the book’s biggest strengths is its ensemble cast. Although it’s technically a competition, I found myself rooting for all six characters, even the morally gray ones. Their motivations felt personal and relatable, and each of them had clear emotional arcs.
I loved the variety of character dynamics in this book – from unlikely friendships (or “unfortunate acquaintances,” as they would say), to rivalries and romance. I particularly loved the subtle moments of camaraderie that emerged despite the high stakes. And yes, there’s diverse representation, which is always a plus.
Themes & Symbolism
A standout element in Immortal Consequences is its emotional core – a thoughtful exploration of what it means to be human. The trials the characters face don’t just test their skills but it also expose their fears, values, and desires.
The novel highlights how people deal with trauma, guilt, and the desire for redemption. It’s about accepting who you are, finding purpose, and cherishing the relationships that make life more bearable and fulfilling.
World-building & Fantasy Elements
The magic in the book is subtle but impactful, tied closely to the students’ identities and the roles they’re expected to fulfill. Each character has a natural magical affinity, which also determines their assigned house within the school.
While the magic system isn’t overly detailed, it works well in context. The soul-reaping theme blends seamlessly into the lore. That said, I suspect there’s much more to explore especially with the revelations in the final chapters, which introduces more of the "evil group" called the Demien Order. This is definitely something to look forward to in the next book
Target Audience Fit
If you're a fan of YA dark academia, morally ambiguous characters, slow-burn romance, and deadly magical trials, this one’s for you. While the themes can be intense, the tone remains appropriate for a young adult audience. It's more introspective and eerie than overtly dark.
Overall Thoughts
Chapter 56 was my favorite – finally! I waited so long for these two characters to acknowledge their feelings for each other. That’s not to say I didn’t enjoy the other romances – they were just as adorable and heartwarming.
But beyond the romance, I loved the rich character dynamics, the tension, and the way the story invited me to reflect on personal growth and second chances.
Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)
Would I recommend it? Definitely! Especially if you love ensemble casts, magical trials, and emotional storytelling.
Kudos to I.V. Marie on a fantastic debut! I can’t wait to read the next installment in The Souls of Blackwood Academy series!