Blood Over Bright Haven

A Novel

The first woman ever admitted to a prestigious order of mages unravels a secret conspiracy that could change the practice of magic forever, in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of The Sword of Kaigen.

“Powerful, thought-provoking. . . . Fans of R.F. Kuang’s Babel will find much to admire here, from the intricate magic system to the unflinching exploration of societal issues.”—Booklist

AN ELLE BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

For twenty years, Sciona has devoted every waking moment to the study of magic, fueled by a mad desire to achieve the impossible: to be the first woman ever admitted to the High Magistry at the University of Magics and Industry.

When Sciona finally passes the qualifying exam and becomes a highmage, she finds her challenges have just begun. Her new colleagues are determined to make her feel unwelcome—and, instead of a qualified lab assistant, they give her a janitor.

What neither Sciona nor her peers realize is that her taciturn assistant was not always a janitor. Ten years ago, he was a nomadic hunter who lost his family on their perilous journey from the wild plains to the city. But now he sees the opportunity to understand the forces that decimated his tribe, drove him from his homeland, and keep the privileged in power.

At first, mage and outsider have a fractious relationship. But working together, they uncover an ancient secret that could change the course of magic forever—if it doesn’t get them killed first.

A Future Classic and Must-Read

I just wish the final section - A Beginner's Guide to Magical Terminology - would be read at the start instead of the end, or at least for there to be a note at the start of the audiobook to listen to this section before starting the actual story. I feel that it would have been more useful at the start, and it disrupts the flow of the story when it's read after the final chapter. Perhaps this could be revised for audiobook format, since understandably this wouldn't be much of a problem with the physical book.

They should teach this is school

This is a powerful story with so many layers. The dichotomy of right and wrong. Questioning doctrine and way of life. Anger, hope, it has everything for a great read. It’s an 11/10.

Gripping, brought out true emotions

This story was written in such a beautifully true way. I am not a fantasy fan, but this in going in my top 5 books of all time. Great performance as well

Get to thinking

I love the overall picture on how we should always check in question our own prospectives. I’m bringing attention to the impact that we’re leaving behind.

um wow

ayooo this blew me away... I went into it blind and it did not disappoint