I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley

When I started to explain this book to my kid, they said--"So it's like Harry Potter" and my response was no, it's only commonality is that it is set in a magic school. After telling this to my co-worker, they felt it was more Harry Potter and Hunger Games mash-up, which might be more apt.

It's high school--there are cliques. And there those who are heros, nerds, outcasts, and the wanna-bes. Sounds normal right? But no, it is highly dystopian. This world is riddled with monsters that feed on the power of those with magic, and the teen population is the largest target. So the kids are sent, or in some cases, pulled into this school that exists mostly due to the belief and power of the people in it. Most kids won't make it through the years there, and those who do, half of them die during "Graduation." This is apparently the safest place for these kids, so that tells you a bit about the world.
The school itself, seems to have no security and no teachers, "The School" decides what you need to work on and it will send you assignments based on that. There might be teachers, but they are never discussed.
Power structure: Many kids are from enclaves that are geographically based. These kids have built in protections due to the strength of the enclave. Individuals spend their school years trying to prove themselves and gain an alliance that will help them obtain a position in the enclave post graduation.

The main character, El, is pretty relatable. She is cautious, reserved, and doesn't think she is all that, even when she actually is. El downplays her abilities, and hides most of it from the other kids. When she was younger, her grandmother saddled her with a prophecy filled with doom. This has caused El to be cautious in her interactions with others because she is afraid of what they will see her powers can do. The thing is -- she is awesome, and powerful. She knows she could do lots of damage to pave a way for her in the school, but her moral fortitude won't let her. I love this character.
I will not say anymore, because I am afraid of unintentionally giving spoilers, but I am looking forward to further installments of this story line. It is part of a series, however, this one could be a standalone as it is a self contained, fully developed story.

Full of action, character depth, and conflict. It's not listed as YA, but could be. No sex for those who want building relationships with out all the romance, etc.