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A review by bripepper
Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang
challenging
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
A true masterclass in delicately weaving together governmental censorship, religious manipulation, and political intrigue using strong characters against a vivid backdrop.
Sciona, a prodigy in mapping spells, becomes the first woman in a century to join the High Magistry. With only one fellow Highmage in her corner she is tasked with developing a city expansion method to compete against the entries of her favored male counterparts. When given a janitor as her academic assistant, Sciona must persevere to truly prove herself against all odds. This requires catching her assigned lowly Kwen up to speed on the basics of reading, organizing, and mechanics of siphoning. As the deadline draws nearer and she spends more time alongside Thomil, her idyllic world view is directly challenged by his life experiences. Sciona must grapple with the downfall of her picturesque dreams coming true and make a decision that will change Tiran forever.
This was one of the more detailed and unique magical realism settings I’ve read. The industrial, dark academic city against the snowy mountain ranges jumped off the page. The spellograph and magic system were very well described to the audience. I felt I could probably create my own mapping and spell web after reading. The character development and interactions gave me a lot to think about. I would recommend this as a strong fantasy standalone with heavy themes that make you reflect on real world systems.
Sciona, a prodigy in mapping spells, becomes the first woman in a century to join the High Magistry. With only one fellow Highmage in her corner she is tasked with developing a city expansion method to compete against the entries of her favored male counterparts. When given a janitor as her academic assistant, Sciona must persevere to truly prove herself against all odds. This requires catching her assigned lowly Kwen up to speed on the basics of reading, organizing, and mechanics of siphoning. As the deadline draws nearer and she spends more time alongside Thomil, her idyllic world view is directly challenged by his life experiences. Sciona must grapple with the downfall of her picturesque dreams coming true and make a decision that will change Tiran forever.
This was one of the more detailed and unique magical realism settings I’ve read. The industrial, dark academic city against the snowy mountain ranges jumped off the page. The spellograph and magic system were very well described to the audience. I felt I could probably create my own mapping and spell web after reading. The character development and interactions gave me a lot to think about. I would recommend this as a strong fantasy standalone with heavy themes that make you reflect on real world systems.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Sexism, Sexual assault, and Religious bigotry