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A review by the_library_of_mary
Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
As my second read of this year, I am very content. I had seen this books circulating online and wanted to give it a try. I'm very happy I did, though not because the story is a "happy" one. I did not know a ton going into the story and didn't really re-read the blurb when my library loan came through, and I'm glad I did.
Sciona, our FMC, starts the story being very " i'm not like other girls" in an academic magical setting. The society is DEEPLY misogynistic and she is constantly being talked down to and restricted. You start the story rooting for her, even though she is incredibly self-centered and borderline narcistic because you want her to prove all these men wrong. As she proves herself and begins interacting with Thomil, her world views are challenged. She them becomes insufferable( but in a good way as a reader) as she is forced to really look at her racist society and her own racist beliefs. She reminds me of the specific "white feminist" viewpoint where you are focused on your own well being and rights, but not those around you.
There is some romance, but eh, I really wouldn't consider that a focal point of the story. I thought that Thomil and Sciona's relationship was interesting regardless of the romance. This book has characters constantly challenging each other, and thats what I enjoyed about their scenes.
If you enjoy dark academia, interesting magic systems, and challenging ideals, here you go.
I'm happy that Sciona died in the end, not because I necessarily wanted her to die, but because the end of the book has her character transforming into someone that tries to be selfless. If she had been miraculously saved in the end, I think it would have taken away from her promises and words to Thomil.
Sciona, our FMC, starts the story being very " i'm not like other girls" in an academic magical setting. The society is DEEPLY misogynistic and she is constantly being talked down to and restricted. You start the story rooting for her, even though she is incredibly self-centered and borderline narcistic because you want her to prove all these men wrong. As she proves herself and begins interacting with Thomil, her world views are challenged. She them becomes insufferable( but in a good way as a reader) as she is forced to really look at her racist society and her own racist beliefs. She reminds me of the specific "white feminist" viewpoint where you are focused on your own well being and rights, but not those around you.
There is some romance, but eh, I really wouldn't consider that a focal point of the story. I thought that Thomil and Sciona's relationship was interesting regardless of the romance. This book has characters constantly challenging each other, and thats what I enjoyed about their scenes.
If you enjoy dark academia, interesting magic systems, and challenging ideals, here you go.
I'm happy that Sciona died in the end, not because I necessarily wanted her to die, but because the end of the book has her character transforming into someone that tries to be selfless. If she had been miraculously saved in the end, I think it would have taken away from her promises and words to Thomil.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Genocide, Misogyny, Racism, Rape, Sexism, Xenophobia, Religious bigotry, Suicide attempt, Sexual harassment, and Classism