Thought-provoking, another emotional wreck
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Blood Over Bright Haven isn’t just a standout in the dark academia/fantasy genre with its rich world-building and original magic system—it’s also a deeply thought-provoking story that wrestles with philosophical and religious dilemmas. It’s intense, smart, and surprisingly emotional.
The story follows Sciona, the first High Mage in her city’s history, as she navigates a deeply misogynistic and religious society through sheer ambition, a bit of madness, and an unwavering love for magic. She’s such a compelling main character—not likable at the start, but by the end, her evolution is striking in the best (and most devastating) way.
Thomil, the other main character, is a refugee and member of a Kwen tribe, living in the same city as Sciona. I loved what he represented in the story—his moral grounding, his quiet resilience. His relationship with his niece absolutely broke my heart, but it also served as a powerful depiction of hope in the face of systemic oppression.
What stood out most to me were the religious themes and the philosophical conversations, especially the ones between Sciona and Thomil. Their back-and-forth about belief, morality, and power led to some of the most satisfying and meaningful breakthroughs in the book.
M.L. Wang has quickly become one of my favorite fantasy authors. Between The Sword of Kaigen and Blood Over Bright Haven, she hasn’t missed. I can’t wait to read whatever she writes next.
Rincón de Stories 