Blood Over Bright Haven

by M. L. Wang
Blood Over Bright Haven cover
Good Books rating 4.19
Fantasy
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Paperback • £9.99 Hardback • £18.99
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Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 2647
  • Added: 2025-10-15
  • Updated: 2025-10-19
  • ISBN: 9780593873373
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2025-07-15
  • Formats: 2
  • Reviews: 4

Sciona, the first woman ever admitted to the High Magistry at the University of Magics and Industry, faces relentless opposition from her colleagues. Paired with a janitor who harbors a mysterious past, they uncover an ancient secret that could reshape the practice of magic forever. Their journey is fraught with danger, as they navigate the treacherous waters of a society that seeks to keep them down./n/nThe novel explores themes of societal inequality and the struggle for power, set against a backdrop of intricate magic and political intrigue. As Sciona and her unlikely ally delve deeper into the conspiracy, they must confront not only external threats but also their own personal demons.

Reviews
Blogging with Dragons · 2025-03-24
compelling 4.25

The book offers a fast-paced exploration of the harsh cost of magic and power, with a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged.

This reviewer found the book to be a compelling and fast-paced exploration of the themes of magic and power. They appreciate how the story delves into the harsh costs associated with these elements, creating a thought-provoking narrative. The characters are well-developed, and their struggles add depth to the story. The reviewer also notes the book's ability to keep readers engaged with its intricate plot and well-paced action, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    Blood Over Bright Haven offers a compelling and fast-paced look at the harsh cost of magic and power.

    The characters are well-developed, and their struggles add depth to the story.

    The book's ability to keep readers engaged with its intricate plot and well-paced action is notable.

Books Are My Third Place · 2025-01-17
good 4.00

The reviewer is impressed by the author's ability to make readers deeply feel what the characters are feeling, praising the mastery of 'show, don't tell.'

The reviewer is struck by how the author makes the characters' emotions palpable, creating a deeply immersive experience. They highlight the author's skill in 'showing, not telling,' which brings the story to life in a profound way. This technique allows readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level, making the narrative more impactful. The reviewer finds this aspect of the book particularly noteworthy and praiseworthy.

Quick quotes

    Wang somehow makes us deeply feel what the characters are feeling.

    It truly feels like a mastery of show, don't tell.

    This technique allows readers to connect with the characters on a deeper level, making the narrative more impactful.

Fantasy Faction · 2024-12-22
brilliant 4.50

This book is considered one of the best this year, blending hope and pain with themes of misogyny, colonialism, and racism. The reviewer praises its emotional depth and thematic richness.

The reviewer is deeply moved by this book, highlighting its powerful themes and emotional resonance. They appreciate how it tackles complex issues like misogyny, colonialism, and racism with a mix of hope and pain. The story's ability to evoke strong emotions and its thematic depth make it a standout read. They believe it is one of the best books of the year, offering a rich and thought-provoking experience.

Quick quotes

    The reviewer considers it one of the best books this year, with a mix of hope, pain, and themes like misogyny, colonialism, and racism.

    The story's ability to evoke strong emotions and its thematic depth make it a standout read.

    It is a powerful exploration of complex issues, blending hope and pain in a way that resonates deeply.

SFF Book Review · 2024-12-16
compelling 4.00

Despite an off-putting title, the book is praised for its compelling narrative and early positive reviews.

The reviewer initially found the title off-putting but was drawn in by the early positive reviews. They highlight the compelling narrative and the book's ability to explore complex themes of power, privilege, and oppression. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the story and the way it challenges the reader to think critically about these themes. They also mention that the characters are well-developed and the plot is engaging, making it a worthwhile read despite the initial reservations about the title.

Quick quotes

    Despite its cringy title, I knew I had to read M. L. Wang's Dark Academia novel.

    The early reviews were so great that I got more and more excited.

    The story is very much about power, privilege and oppression.

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