Blood over Bright Haven Audiobook By M. L. Wang cover art

Blood over Bright Haven

A Novel

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Blood over Bright Haven

By: M. L. Wang
Narrated by: Moira Quirk
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About this listen

The first woman ever admitted to a prestigious order of mages unravels a secret conspiracy that could change the practice of magic forever, in this standalone dark fantasy from the author of The Sword of Kaigen.

“Powerful, thought-provoking. . . . Fans of R.F. Kuang’s Babel will find much to admire here, from the intricate magic system to the unflinching exploration of societal issues.”—Booklist

AN ELLE BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR

For twenty years, Sciona has devoted every waking moment to the study of magic, fueled by a mad desire to achieve the impossible: to be the first woman ever admitted to the High Magistry at the University of Magics and Industry.

When Sciona finally passes the qualifying exam and becomes a highmage, she finds her challenges have just begun. Her new colleagues are determined to make her feel unwelcome—and, instead of a qualified lab assistant, they give her a janitor.

What neither Sciona nor her peers realize is that her taciturn assistant was not always a janitor. Ten years ago, he was a nomadic hunter who lost his family on their perilous journey from the wild plains to the city. But now he sees the opportunity to understand the forces that decimated his tribe, drove him from his homeland, and keep the privileged in power.

At first, mage and outsider have a fractious relationship. But working together, they uncover an ancient secret that could change the course of magic forever—if it doesn’t get them killed first.

©2023 M. L. Wang (P)2024 Random House Audio
Fantasy Gaslamp Science Fiction Steampunk Wizardry Magic Users Thought-Provoking
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Critic reviews

“A scathing but truthful look at the world we live in, and a stunningly powerful story.”—Terry Brooks

“Powerful, passionate, and painful, this book is like a file baked into a birthday cake: a surprise when you first bite down on it, but also a tool that can set you free. Innovative and brilliantly written, this is a glorious jewel added to the crown of dark academia.”—Seanan McGuire

“Wang deftly incorporates elements of science and philosophy into dark academia in this provocative stand-alone novel.”The Washington Post

What listeners say about Blood over Bright Haven

Highly rated for:

Unique Magic System Engaging Storyline Excellent Narration Thought-provoking Themes Compelling World-building
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Another good story from M L Wang

Lighter in tone than The Sword of Kaigen, this story is just as dark. This is an entirely new world with a mysterious force/creature/deity that brings death and sorrow. Focused on a small set of characters (like tSoK) in a large city, the story showcases the differences between two cultures. The characters are interesting and engaging with strong conflict scenes. While others stories can be told before or after this book, the story is pretty well completed makes a good standalone story. There is a blend of technology and magic and mythology.

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Could not stop

Instantly bingeable, ML Wang has done it again with another one of my favorite books. Emotional, fast paced, deep world, great twists, amazing

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Evoking and brilliant.

Absolutely beautiful book. From the magic system to the characters, it’s stunning. I don’t know how ML Wang managed to create this world and story so perfectly that it feels like you’re watching a movie. Vivid, deeply moving, and easily the best book I’ve read in 2024.

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just what I needed

Well-written, well-developed characters & magic system. I got swept up in the story and adored the flawed heroine. Heavy on the social commentary but personally I like that.

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ML want for the win

This is a well written and voiced book. ML wang goes outside the norm when forming a plot and her imagination is unique in the fantasy genre. Not too long, not too short.

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My heart

Oh my poor heart. My emotions definitely went on a journey with this book. I loved Sciona and her complexity and I think the plot and climax were carried out perfectly. I do wish the ending could have been slightly different but honestly excellent excellent book would definitely recommend

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This is a must read

This book was amazing! The commentary on racism, woman’s rights, classism, and religion were unbelievable I ate up every single word of this book. The magic system was so well thought out and made you think about power balances. I will be reading the sword of Kaigen because if it is anything like this masterpiece M.L. Wang will easily make it to the top of my favorite authors.

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Devastating and Relavent

This story hits home in a lot of ways. Inspired a lot of critical thought on my part. The narration is phenomenal.

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Masterful

My jaw is on the floor. Incredible story and wonderful narration. This was absolutely transformative to listen to.

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Originality

This story felt very authentic and the originality was great. I would have given this one 5 stars across the board but it was a little bit predictable. I would definitely recommend it though!

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