A review by pages_with_panda
Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang

dark emotional hopeful mysterious sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

This book felt like someone pushed me into a dark alley in the middle of winter and then punched me in the throat before stealing my jacket. 5/5. 

The first chapter had me in literal tears...The themes of colonization and oppression were so very in our faces but sometimes I think we need books to spell it out for us. I don't think the obviousness of the story detracted from it's lessons. The magic was so interesting and unique, and the twist blew my mind. 

The characters felt real and flawed and I loved all of them so much!!

Slight spoilers regarding the characters:
Some are calling this an Oppressor/Oppressed romance but I wouldn't boil it down to just that trope. Both characters grew so much and the romance is such a small part of the story.
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