[PRE-ORDER] Heart of Ruin (Blackmore Academy, #1) by A.C. Arthur

Release Date: 11/03/2026

dark academia • paranormal romance • slow burn • forbidden magick • southern gothic

At Blackmore Academy, where academic prestige conceals a world of dangerous magick, Asa Morgan has built a quiet life as a history professor. But when the power she has spent years suppressing begins to surface, she is drawn into a hidden supernatural world that could change everything she thought she knew about herself.

The Vibe

Asa is intelligent, reserved, and far more powerful than she realizes. Her carefully controlled life begins to unravel when her connection to ancient magick can no longer remain hidden. Set against the haunting beauty of New Orleans, Heart of Ruin blends romance, supernatural intrigue, and dark academia into an atmospheric story filled with mystery.

Josiah King is an elite enforcer tasked with monitoring the use of magick. His duty should make Asa someone to fear, but the attraction between them creates a dangerous complication neither can easily ignore. Their connection unfolds through tension, secrets, and a slow-burning pull that challenges everything standing between them.

With an HBCU at the heart of its magical world, the story brings together academic atmosphere, Southern gothic mood, forbidden magic, and a romance charged with danger. Perfect for readers who love immersive fantasy romance with a mysterious setting and a relationship that develops against impossible odds.

Tropes & Tags

• Dark academia
• Paranormal romance
• Fantasy romance
• Slow-burn romance
• Forbidden magic
• Southern gothic atmosphere
• HBCU setting
• New Orleans setting
• Magical academy
• Supernatural intrigue
• Powerful heroine
• Elite magical enforcer
• High-stakes romance

Books in Series (In Order)

• Heart of Ruin, #1

Please note: This is a pre-order item and will not be available for pickup or shipment until the official release date. You’ll receive a notification as soon as your order is ready.

This Deluxe Edition is available only while supplies last. If it becomes unavailable, we'll contact you before shipping with the option to switch to the standard print edition or cancel for a refund.