The Academy (The Central Series Book 1)

Mr. Rawlins has created a unique world of magic, which isn't an easy thing to do these days. This is a fast read with a solid plot and well developed characters. Can't wait for the next installment.

Wonderful, speedy read. Rawlins has created many unique and intriguing characters. I was riveted from the first scene. Not to be written off an another formula fantasy, this book is for grownups and combines fantasy, horror, and action to create a new reading experience. Can't wait for the next one.

There really isn't any better way to describe it. If you like anime like Witch Hunter Robin or Bleach, you will love this book. I am eagerly awaiting the sequel and recommending this book to all my friends.

Troubled young Alex unknowingly stumbles into an epic fight between the Weir, a homicidal werewolf species, & a futuristic Operative intent on protecting him. This moment spring boards him into an entirely new life and future revolving around these fantastic elements.

Here is what is great about The Academy: a strong plot based around Alex's coming of age and power. Additionally, the back story, the Auditors & Operatives, and the various faction cartels all add up to a surprisingly deep & unique story weaving high-tech, fantasy, mythology & psychology.

Here is what is not so great about the Academy: Typos - if they make you quiver with rage, then please, please walk away now. Multiple typos on the same page, even as extreme as misspelling a city's name (Pittsburgh, not Pittsburg).

Add the bad to the good and you still end up with a very enjoyable series with a lot of heart, passion, and story to tell.

Very very good read and im going to start reading book 2..... The only thing i didnt care for is all the point of views it went through made it hard to follow at times but still i completely enjoyed this book and i have high hopes going into book 2

The product description doesn't do this book justice. Rawlins blends action and secret-agent style political wrangling to create a real winner.

If you're a Jim Butcher/Dresden files fan and enjoyed the depth of various courts (factions) of vampires, the White Council, the fey, etc... and how as the series developed the meta-plot evolved to include the Black Council then you'll be hooked from the start with secret agent style wizards. The same applies if you're a Lawson Vampire Series, President's Vampire, Pagan or Vampire Empire fan, although Rawlin's 'Central Series' explores the Intelligence agency style politics much more so. Hopefully the depth of this exploration will continue if not evolve even more as the series progresses. My only concern would be the slight potential for devolving into teen angst given that Alex the main character is a teen attending the Academy.

Mostly, pretty good. Totally worth a buck. The protagonist is occasionally overly whiny and behaves ridiculously, but he's a teenager, so i guess that comes with the territory. Couple of complaints: LOTS of unanswered questions, little development in the main characters social situation, and he should cowboy up once in a while.