An Arcane Inheritance by Kamilah Cole

Tracy’s Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Series: N/A

Release Date: December 30, 2025

The story is ambitious, weaving together themes of race, privilege, and social power within the elite academic setting. The magic system—trading power for memories—adds a unique twist, infusing the story with both suspense and a sense of foreboding loss. However, much of the book focuses on Ellory’s internal struggles, and her perspective can feel repetitive as she navigates the challenges of belonging and uncovering the university’s secrets. While the supporting cast offers moments of intrigue, some characters come across as distant or underdeveloped, which makes it harder to form a strong emotional connection. The pacing is inconsistent, with a slow-building mystery in the first part and a rush of revelations and magical elements near the end, sometimes leaving key moments feeling abrupt.

Overall, I was intrigued by the promise of a story that offers an atmospheric and thought-provoking exploration of academia’s darker side, enriched by meaningful social commentary and a moody setting. While the concept and worldbuilding show real promise, the execution can feel uneven, especially in character development and pacing. Readers who enjoy introspective narratives and layered themes may find much to appreciate here, but for those such as myself who are seeking a tighter plot or more immediate emotional engagement, they might be left wanting. Despite its flaws, the book delivers a fresh take on dark academia and is worth a try for fans of the genre who appreciate a blend of magic, identity, and institutional critique.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *