by M.L. Wang
I really liked this novel, so much so that I had to bust out my mini sticky notes. The novel begins with the character Thomil and his people, the Kwen, attempting to escape a violent culling by “Blight” (a magical energy that strikes any and every living thing it senses ), an introduction that sucks us right into the plot. The second chapter, however, is significantly different. We meet Sciona just about to perform an entrance exam into the prestigious High Magistry at the University of High Magics and Industry, a feat that is almost impossible, as no other female has ever been admitted.
Soon, Thomil and Sciona’s lives collide, and both must overcome their prejudices to reveal the truth behind the political machinations of their world and bring justice to those who have been sacrificed for the upper class’s benefit.
This novel is rife with themes that are incredibly applicable to our world today. It is a perfect example of how science fiction and fantasy can serve to show us injustices, and an entitled, wealthy, and politically powerful class of society can manipulate philosophy, religion and history to serve their own ends to the extent of abusing and obliterating the lives of other classes and cultures in order to do so.
Well written, fast-paced, and perfectly concluded, with engaging characters and fascinating world-building, Blood over Bright Haven is a very good addition to your reading list and would make a wonderful addition to independent novel study in secondary school classrooms.
Ink And Spine 