Chasing River by M.C. Sakala is a dark academia romance that pulses with emotion and mystery. Armani Nnandi, a perfectionist driven by academic validation, lands a scholarship at St. Katherine’s, a prestigious art academy in France. Free from her strict parents, she’s determined to focus on her art—until she meets River Kennedy, her enigmatic, silvery-eyed rival. Their academic sparring turns into a passionate enemies-to-lovers connection, but secrets haunting St. Katherine’s and River’s troubled past threaten to unravel everything.

Sakala’s debut, written as a teen from Zambia, brims with raw passion. Armani’s journey as a young African woman navigating freedom and parental pressure feels authentic, while River’s complex, grief-laden backstory adds depth. The Parisian boarding school setting, with its eerie corridors and whispered secrets, creates a gripping atmosphere, though the mystery element feels underdeveloped. The second half shines, with heartfelt moments and bisexual representation that elevate Armani and River’s chemistry. Some readers note pacing issues and unpolished prose—run-on sentences and sparse commas—but the emotional payoff and vivid characters make it a compelling read.

Who should read it? This is perfect for fans of The Atlas Six or If We Were Villains who love dark academia romance or enemies-to-lovers tropes. If you’re into young adult fiction, boarding school settings, or stories of self-discovery and found family, you’ll enjoy this. It’s ideal for readers (16+) who embrace emotional, character-driven tales with moderate spice, but those expecting a tight mystery or polished writing might find it uneven. Check trigger warnings for homophobia, grief, and car accident references.

Chasing River is a heartfelt, messy debut that captures love, loss, and growth. Armani and River’s story is a chaotic, beautiful canvas you’ll want to dive into.

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