Blood Over Bright Haven

A riveting dark academia fantasy about the limits of truth and power, from the author of The Sword of Kaigen.

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.

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

When Sciona finally achieves her ambition 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 realise 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.

Review: This powerful and engaging novel… bears comparison to groundbreaking works by Ursula K Le Guin. […] For me, the best fantasy novel of the year. * Lisa Tuttle, The Guardian *
A fantastic page-turner – clever, emotional, and thematically rich. I was completely engaged the whole way through. Highly recommended! * James Islington, author of The Will of the Many *
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 *

Format: Paperback
Pages: 448
Imprint: Del Rey
Publication date: 29/10/2024