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Blood Over Bright Haven
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Blood Over Bright Haven by M.L. Wang --- Sept Themed BOM - 2020-2026, starts 16 Sept
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(last edited Sep 21, 2026 02:46PM)
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Date Chapters MPDQs
16 Sept Chapter 1 - 4 Lexi (Brin)
17 Sept Chapter 5 - 8 Erin (Turin)
18 Sept Chapter 9 – 13 Catherine (Trilos) .
19 Sept Chapter 14 – 16 CynRo (Mari)
20 Sept Chapter 17 – 20 Rosaline (Suri)
21 Sept Chapter 21 – 23 Brittany (Eton)
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You don't need to be participating in the team challenge to participate in the BOM.
If you are in the team challenge, please note your team name when volunteering.
Where we have more volunteers than DQ days;
>If we have more than one volunteer from the same team, only one team entry will go into the randomiser to be selected to write DQs. (the other volunteers will be 'back ups')
>The nominator of the BOM is automatically assigned a DQ day
DQ volunteers are randomised around 3 days before the start date of the BOM. Please confirm your participation if you are selected. We reserve the right to go to the next person in the list if we don't hear from you
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(last edited Oct 03, 2026 02:37AM)
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Lexi - Brin (nominator)
Angie - Minna
Alysa - Suri
Catherine - Trilos
Eldarwen - Alurya
Brittany - Eton
Teddie - Ferrol
Erin - Turin
Angie - Minna (extra entry)
Catherine - Trilos (extra entry)
CynRo - Mari
Backups:
Judith - Brin
Mary - Alurya
Imke - Minna
Jenny - Minna
Ashley - Eton
Shannon - Trilos
Shannon - Trilos
Rosaline - Suri
Melissa - Turin
Randomized Order (view spoiler)
==================================
Participation Verified
Catherine
Catsalive
Judith
Juliana
Angie
Roseline
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Lexi wrote: "Mine again"Lexi, what is your secret, LOL.
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I would like to use an extra entry, please.
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Backup for Lexi, Team Brin
Lisa - (Aussie Girl) wrote: "Lexi wrote: "Mine again"Lexi, what is your secret, LOL."
Lexi's big secret is just having good taste in books + picking things that are on a lot of other people's TBRs too 😎
I'm volunteering for DQs!
ETA:
Team Suri !
This is a re-read, I'm excitedVolunteering for DQ's (Team Trilos)
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Can write DQs.
*Eta: Team Alurya
Volunteering for DQ's too please!Team Alurya
Volunteering for DQs, I'll be back up for Angie
Volunteering for Team Eton
Volunteering for Team Ferrol.
Volunteering for Team Turin
Back up for Team Minna DQs.
I'll be backup for Brittany (Team Eton)!
I volunteer for DQs as backup for Trilos!
Hello! Volunteering for Team Mari
Volunteering as backup for Alysa (Team Suri)
Can I get an extra entry on my vote? - Trilos
I can be a backup for Turin.
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I’m good with my day! Thank you![eta: I would also be fine with swapping to an earlier day, just in case anyone needs to. Just an fyi 🙂]
I really liked this book, one of the rare stand alones that felt complete
I am good with my day, thanks!
I'm good with my day!
Mod
1. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
I actually read this book about 2 years ago (Dec 2024) and it has stayed with me this entire time. I recommend it often and was happy for a reason to revisit it.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I prefer series novels because when a world and characters are well-written I want to be with them for as long as possible.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I thought it was pretty easy to follow for the most part, but I also read a LOT of fantasy books
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
I thought it seemed a lot like being a woman working in the military in the early 2000s. You get the men and you get the different classes and ranks and you are considered a bit less competent and overlooked.
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
A lot of the standalones I love are a mix of fantasy/horror/paranormal
There are also some magical realism
Some urban paranormal/fantasy
Retellings
Romantasy
Middle Grade Fantasy
High fantasy
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
Didn't know about this book, but did read The Sword of Kaigen when it was a BOM. I didn't have any expectations going in. Didn't even remember what it was about when I started. And that label doesn't bother me, I've probably read others in this type of setting. But being an "Academia" book makes me think that the book would be in more of a college setting.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I typically read more series than standalones because I love being immersed in worlds and these epic-like stories arcs, and continuing stories in those worlds/with those characters. Well, as long as I like the characters.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
It seemed a little steampunk to me at first. Also, seemed a bit familiar - like it was similar to other magic systems I've read before. The Blight in that first chapter was horrifying, and a little predictable in what it actually was. But what a way to start!
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
To be expected for being the first woman mage in a male-dominated society. Even though I found Sciona to be somewhat unlikable, I think she needed that to survive and excel at her craft.
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
Wow this was so hard because most of my Read shelf are series books! These appear to be the only ones that I liked that are standalone:
(technically part of the larger Cosmere but this is a standalone in this world)
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
Nope, another I had not heard of and I have not read this author before.
I do like Dark Academia and the cover as well, so was curious
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I like both but am a huge Series person, so series are my preference
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I am confused on the system with magic but that's not abnormal for me. Everything else I'm getting so far fine though. The testing was frustrating but interesting
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
Ugh, they are such annoying asshats and I was getting truly irritated on her behalf. I have a strong theory on her new assistant's identity and am curious on that. Really getting into the book more by chapter four with my interest
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
I do not read as much High Fantasy or Dark Academia (newer to this but want to try more out. Also since I rarely read non-series for fantasy, that was tough, but looking through my read notes,
1. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?This was a Netgalley read for me and I was happy to see it get popular as I did enjoy it. I am also re-reading the ARC I got from Netgalley along with Audio from Everand. I have read
also as a BOM.2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I prefer series novels because I get attached to the characters and want to continue on in their stories. Although I do appreciate a standalone when called for and a break from series every now and then.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I think its mostly easy to follow so far.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
Pretty typical of a man dominated world. Of course there are exceptional women but god forbid the men will make it harder for them to succeed.
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books? LOL most of my recommends would be series but here are a few.
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
It looks like I added it to my TBR in April '25, so I guess the answer is yes. Although it wasn't really on my radar. For me the pinnacle of Dark Academia in Fantasy, and outside of Dark Romance, is Naomi Novik's Scholomance trilogy. The first 4 chapters of this one do not give me those vibes. I guess she is in research and is technically Academia, but I don't really feel it.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I don't have a preference, but I am not put off by series like some people are.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I was a little put off by how completely we left the start of the book. I'm glad we're finally starting to see what happened after they arrived. As far as the magic is concerned, I think I tend to gloss over specifics in my mind.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
I was hoping they would be better, but they are showing that they are just a typical group of males.
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 4 1. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
I read The Sword of Kaigen and really liked it. I did not look up this book, so I had no idea what it was about before I started reading.
I do expect it to have some good character development and good world building if the one book of Wang's that I am familiar with is any indication.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I like both standalone and series. If it is a series and the first book grabs me with its world building, then I am all in for a long ride. I mainly read stand alone fiction though, so that is probably my favorite overall.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I don't have a great handle on the magic rules or why there is a dome and an outside the dome. I assume it will all come out later. I like the idea that (it seems) the magic is something one can learn how to do, rather than just being gifted the ability somehow.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
Sciona is going to be interesting to follow. She has lived her life so far with blinders on to anyone who wasn't helping her directly in her quest for becoming a mage, until Alma pointed that personality flaw to her, and then she started noticing the background characters in her life. So, as weird as that insta-change was, it does show that she can learn and adapt. At work, she is going to have to deal with a lot of crap from the male dominated realm of magic, and all that that entails. I think that her being paired with Tommy will ultimately be a good thing for her. I have hope that the two of them will deal with real world (to them) issues and not just become a trite romance story.
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
Several that I like have been recommended already. Adding to those lists are a few more-
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
I didn’t know anything about the book before the BOM. I generally like Dark Academia so I’m excited to read it.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
It depends. For fantasy books, I tend to like a series. For other genres, a stand alone is better for me. I will say, more than 3-4 books is just too much!
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
It’s a bit hard for me to follow, it really jumps right in.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
Well, the bias is pretty apparent, a qualified man wouldn’t want to work under her because she’s a woman. Ick. Even in the tests, they gave her that huge cauldron and made her throw a ball because they didn’t think a woman could handle it. Ick. I’m glad she was open to the janitor lol
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
I think some of these have been BOMs but here are some of my higher rated ones on my read list.
This is a duology not at stand alone, but I absolutely LOVE THEM and they aren't as popular as the ought to be in my opinion:
by Hank Green (John Green's brother)
Day 2 DQs: Chapter 5 - 85. Chapter five was quite lengthy and covered a lot. As Sciona explained so much to Thomil of the magic system and how it works, I feel I understand a lot more about the magic system and world building myself now. The end with the bar scene, and the two "bonding" over drinks, do you feel you have a stronger sense of the Tomlin and Sciona now as people than you did in the previous four chapters?
6. In this series misogyny is common, and it is a driving force of shaping the main character's situation and motivations. Do you enjoy when a book has a main character who is working against the odds of the system or group due to their race, gender, social class like this? Do you think this makes it easier for you to identify with characters when this happens in books?
7. As Thomil and Sciona get more comfortable with each other, a lot of intense conversations have taken place, including their differences of gods and how people are judged when they die of being "good" - action result versus intent. Do you have any theories yet on how these discussions and differences will have an impact on the story's plot and ending?
8. The science of the magic and furthering of Thomil's education have taken up a great part of these four chapters. Do you find this interesting enough on its own, or do you feel it's hurting the pacing of the story?
Day 2 DQs: Chapter 5 - 85. Chapter five was quite lengthy and covered a lot. As Sciona explained so much to Thomil of the magic system and how it works, I feel I understand a lot more about the magic system and world building myself now. The end with the bar scene, and the two "bonding" over drinks, do you feel you have a stronger sense of the Tomlin and Sciona now as people than you did in the previous four chapters?
I think that this was really when we start to see the true character development coming off of the scene setting of the book to help provide a bit of emotional attachment for the reader
6. In this series misogyny is common, and it is a driving force of shaping the main character's situation and motivations. Do you enjoy when a book has a main character who is working against the odds of the system or group due to their race, gender, social class like this? Do you think this makes it easier for you to identify with characters when this happens in books?
Honestly, yes. I do like to read about a strong character fighting a system or idea that is something that can feel impossible to truly change in the real world.
7. As Thomil and Sciona get more comfortable with each other, a lot of intense conversations have taken place, including their differences of gods and how people are judged when they die of being "good" - action result versus intent. Do you have any theories yet on how these discussions and differences will have an impact on the story's plot and ending?
I read the book a couple years ago and again this second time and so instead of commenting on predictions, I will say that I greatly enjoyed this unique religious view.
8. The science of the magic and furthering of Thomil's education have taken up a great part of these four chapters. Do you find this interesting enough on its own, or do you feel it's hurting the pacing of the story?
I love to learn, so this was a joy for my brain, haha
Day 2 DQs: Chapter 5 - 85. Chapter five was quite lengthy and covered a lot. As Sciona explained so much to Thomil of the magic system and how it works, I feel I understand a lot more about the magic system and world building myself now. The end with the bar scene, and the two "bonding" over drinks, do you feel you have a stronger sense of the Tomlin and Sciona now as people than you did in the previous four chapters?
I agree, I am getting a much better picture of the world and systems. The bar scene was sweet and yes, I think there is a better sense of who they are as people. I really don’t want a romance though!
6. In this series misogyny is common, and it is a driving force of shaping the main character's situation and motivations. Do you enjoy when a book has a main character who is working against the odds of the system or group due to their race, gender, social class like this? Do you think this makes it easier for you to identify with characters when this happens in books?
Some kind of struggle is necessary to a story. Race, gender, and social class are low hanging fruit to create this struggle. I still enjoy these and it can help to identify with the characters but I’d love to see something more creative.
7. As Thomil and Sciona get more comfortable with each other, a lot of intense conversations have taken place, including their differences of gods and how people are judged when they die of being "good" - action result versus intent. Do you have any theories yet on how these discussions and differences will have an impact on the story's plot and ending?
The conversations are very interesting, but I don’t have any guesses on how it will play into the plot and ending.
8. The science of the magic and furthering of Thomil's education have taken up a great part of these four chapters. Do you find this interesting enough on its own, or do you feel it's hurting the pacing of the story?
I think it’s really cool. Combo programming and magic.
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 4 1. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
I’d heard about this book before but I’d heard more about the author’s other book. I really had no expectations at all, tbh it was a very spontaneous decision to pick it up. I placed a hold on it after I saw it’s a BOM but didn’t think it’d come in on time, but then I got one of those skip the line holds yesterday… and here I am. Dark academia is the exact opposite of a buzzword for me - I love the idea of it but I think I’ve only ever read two books in the “genre” I actually liked.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I loveeeee a standalone. Sometimes I like a series but the commitment is just so big. And I think it takes a certain kind of skill (which more people could be honing…) to write a complete, complex fantastical story in just one book (and without that one book being 1000 pages long).
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I’m the type of reader who cannot make sense of any of these descriptions so that was quite tedious to get through… once we were in her exam it made some sort of sense but the pages before that, whew. But I know I just need to get through it and eventually it’ll start computing for me.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
I think she’s doing a decent enough job of dealing with everything, even if it does seem a little unrealistic just how naive she was approaching her first day of work? But I guess she so far doesn’t seem like the kind of person who has a lot of social interaction with peers.
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
Maybe it’s more sci-fi, but The City & The City is really cool. Out of all of Sanderson’s books, Warbreaker has been my favorite and as of right now it’s still a standalone… there have been a few other good ones but a lot of the really hyped books I don’t think too highly of (chrm chrm Babel… another dark academia flop…)
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
This has been on my TBR since 2024 but I didn't remember much about it until it was nominated for the BOM. I had no particular expectations. I don't place much stock in the "Dark Academia" label one way or another, I just look at books' full descriptions.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
No strong preference, but it does seem like there are more series than standalones so it's nice to find a good standalone every once in a while.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I appreciate how technical the magic system is, largely because this is actually an important aspect of characterization for the MC. That is, it's important to show that Sciona has a very technical mind, and following her thought process through the complex spellwork is a great way to do that.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
My first thought was "Wow, these dudes are assholes." They're somewhat clever about it too, which makes it worse than if they were also stupid. The bathroom thing felt the most overtly systemic to me, and something about which the men would never have to think at all. That was almost (but not quite) more irritating to me than the men's individual attitude problems.
ETA: it also PMO that Sciona herself is holding her own biases just as she is a victim of biases, in how she, at least so far, sees the Kwen. I'm fairly sure that will be addressed sooner than later.
My brain is way too tired for the bonus question but I look forward to combing through everybody else's reccs 😆
Mod
1. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
I did nominate it. I did not like the first BOM by this author but had seen enough good things about this book to give a second book a try. I don’t read a lot of Dark Academia since most of it is very YA feeling but have enjoyed one recently focused on the professors so was hopeful for an older protagonist.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I have some favorite series but really like a good standalone. Especially in fantasy and sci-fi, I sometimes find them harder to find these days and some series seem like they just don’t know when to stop.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I appreciate them showing the technicality of the magic and how it takes a lot of knowledge but thing if it continues to have this much detail throughout it might bog down the narrative. I like that seems to be based off coding or a logic tree.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
Alysa commented on what I was getting at that you both have the men being utter jerks and not subtle about it but also the bathroom. Having delt with the no women’s room nearby issue in real life, I felt for that one.
All four are standalone books that I read this year so far or last year:
Day 1: Chapters 1-41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
I’ve read one book by the author before, so I’m a little familiar. It’s very limited, though. I expect the fantasy to be very adult, with a strong female lead, and a bit gory. In one of her books, The Sword of Kaigen, it talks about war, violence, and it’s not pretty.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I prefer a standalone in fantasy because they are usually hit or miss for me. So it’s nice to know I don’t have to worry if the series gets better or goes downhill. Also, I don’t like cliffhanger endings, and sometimes I worry that the first book has a cliffhanger to set up for the next book.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
It’s not easy for me, but I usually struggle with this stuff anyway. I’m not good with world-building in general. I should be able to pick it up later, though.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
Rough, as expected. There’s definitely a gender bias against her, but she is clearly a strong and competent high mage. I’m sure she’s going to struggle in this good ole boys club, but maybe she will find some men who do support her.
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell and The Princess Bride are good ones.
Day 2 DQs: Chapter 5 - 85. Chapter five was quite lengthy and covered a lot. As Sciona explained so much to Thomil of the magic system and how it works, I feel I understand a lot more about the magic system and world building myself now. The end with the bar scene, and the two "bonding" over drinks, do you feel you have a stronger sense of the Tomlin and Sciona now as people than you did in the previous four chapters?
I felt this chapter was great as I was less confused now on the magical terminology, point, how the mages worked with magic, the system. The bar was a also fun as it showed a softer side to both, gave some hints of a possible romance (although I agree the book doesn't need that really), and I got to know the characters more in a relaxed setting. Was a great chapter.
6. In this series misogyny is common, and it is a driving force of shaping the main character's situation and motivations. Do you enjoy when a book has a main character who is working against the odds of the system or group due to their race, gender, social class like this? Do you think this makes it easier for you to identify with characters when this happens in books?
It depends how it's done and if it's subtle or exaggerated, especially when it comes to certain books with race
7. As Thomil and Sciona get more comfortable with each other, a lot of intense conversations have taken place, including their differences of gods and how people are judged when they die of being "good" - action result versus intent. Do you have any theories yet on how these discussions and differences will have an impact on the story's plot and ending?
I think the middle and these conversations portend things that will come up to shake the worldbuilding, beliefs, and form the point of the book, more so for Sciona than Thomil.
8. The science of the magic and furthering of Thomil's education have taken up a great part of these four chapters. Do you find this interesting enough on its own, or do you feel it's hurting the pacing of the story?
I find it interesting but think the author is dragging it on too much by this point as a bit of filler
Day 2 DQs: Chapter 5 - 85. Chapter five was quite lengthy and covered a lot. As Sciona explained so much to Thomil of the magic system and how it works, I feel I understand a lot more about the magic system and world building myself now. The end with the bar scene, and the two "bonding" over drinks, do you feel you have a stronger sense of the Tomlin and Sciona now as people than you did in the previous four chapters?
Yes, a bit. I am liking Thomil a lot more than I am liking Sciona so far. The chip on her shoulder is huge, and I get it, but it is getting to be a little much.
6. In this series misogyny is common, and it is a driving force of shaping the main character's situation and motivations. Do you enjoy when a book has a main character who is working against the odds of the system or group due to their race, gender, social class like this? Do you think this makes it easier for you to identify with characters when this happens in books?
It is often fun to root for the underdog, so it is an effective tool for a story. However, I am getting a bit bored with it in this book. Yes, men are evil. Yes, her mentor is also likely to stab her in the back later. Yes, Thomil will hurt her somehow. I don't know. Maybe because there are factions in the real world that are trying their damndest to make the world safe for misogyny again that it is just hitting me in a tone that is making it not very enjoyable.
7. As Thomil and Sciona get more comfortable with each other, a lot of intense conversations have taken place, including their differences of gods and how people are judged when they die of being "good" - action result versus intent. Do you have any theories yet on how these discussions and differences will have an impact on the story's plot and ending?
I think that the Kwen "religion" will turn out to be something that Sciona embraces.
I must say I did like the religious debate in the story. I find religion to be silly, and I thought the author pointed out in a great way how one's upbringing influences how they view "truth" and the ways of the world. I mean Sciona absolutely knows that her version of reality is the right one, and the lowly uneducated Kwen just need to get with the program. Although, she tolerates a different sect of her own religion even if she thinks they are foolish in some of their beliefs. Catholic/Protestant anyone? Shiite/Sunni?
I do like how their conversations are making her see that the world is bigger than she knows. Thomil, who has been directly hurt by people who have her belief system is not likely to turn around and see the good in hers though. I could be wrong.
8. The science of the magic and furthering of Thomil's education have taken up a great part of these four chapters. Do you find this interesting enough on its own, or do you feel it's hurting the pacing of the story?
I don't mind it, but the magic system is a bit dull to me as it goes on. Perhaps if I was a computer programmer I would like it better. I do like that it is sort of science based, or at least experimentation based.
I do really want to know about the Otherworld, or whatever it is called. Is it a parallel universe thing? Are they pulling energy from a place that needs it? What lies in the forbidden parts? Hopefully these things are answered, without it being answered in a sequel.
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
I have read The Sword of Kaigen, so I have heard of the author. I didn't have any expectations for this book, though. I had to look up Dark Academia so no, nothing changed my expectations except to assume it's set in a university, college or boarding school with a dark side to it...something evil maybe.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I like both and can't really pick one. If the series is really good and I'm into the world and characters and don't want the series to end. But if a standalone is good but doesn't leave me begging to live more with the characters and their world/journey, then I'm good to see it end.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
I've found the magic fairly easy to follow, although there is definitely a lot to take in! What has stood out most to me is how structured and almost scientific it is. I like that magic involves studying, understanding the different principles, and learning to manipulate them. Scione's dedication to mastering it makes the magic more interesting to me because we're seeing how much work and knowledge it takes.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
I was frustrated for Sciona because she has worked so hard to earn her position, yet she immediately has to deal with people who see her as a woman first and her abilities second. I like that she doesn't back down or let them intimidate her. She knows she belongs there and seems determined to prove it, even when the system and the individuals around her are working against her.
Bonus: Any recommendations for strong standalone fantasy books?
No, I don't think I have any that I can add to what Brittany already listed! lol
Day 2 DQs: Chapter 5 - 85. Chapter five was quite lengthy and covered a lot. As Sciona explained so much to Thomil of the magic system and how it works, I feel I understand a lot more about the magic system and world building myself now. The end with the bar scene, and the two "bonding" over drinks, do you feel you have a stronger sense of the Tomil and Sciona now as people than you did in the previous four chapters?
Tomil for sure. We barely saw him in chapter 1. Sciona, not so much. I felt that her discussions with her mentor showed us more of her than this chapter.
6. In this series misogyny is common, and it is a driving force of shaping the main character's situation and motivations. Do you enjoy when a book has a main character who is working against the odds of the system or group due to their race, gender, social class like this? Do you think this makes it easier for you to identify with characters when this happens in books?
I just feel like it is another form of conflict. And there has to be some conflict for a book to be worth reading.
7. As Thomil and Sciona get more comfortable with each other, a lot of intense conversations have taken place, including their differences of gods and how people are judged when they die of being "good" - action result versus intent. Do you have any theories yet on how these discussions and differences will have an impact on the story's plot and ending?
I believe that Thomil will end up influcing Sciona's views and that will affect the way she uses magic.
8. The science of the magic and furthering of Thomil's education have taken up a great part of these four chapters. Do you find this interesting enough on its own, or do you feel it's hurting the pacing of the story?
I think it's a good way to info dump without hurting the pacing.
Day 1 DQs: Chapter 1 – 41. Did you know about this book or author before the book of the month? If so, what expectations did you have? Even if you had no expectations from author or book, does knowing it is labeled as Dark Academia change what you were expecting?
I didn’t know about this book or the author. I was expecting more of a (high)school/boarding school setting but I think from what I’ve read so far it’s more a university setting except for the 1st chapter, that I did not see coming.
2. I partially nominated this book because it was a standalone and it is nice to know at times that the entire story arc will occur in one book. Do you like standalone or series better or no preference and why?
I don’t have a preference.
3. There has been a lot of information is this first section on magic. Have you found it easy to follow, and what details have especially stood out to you?
The story goes reasonably slow and takes it’s time explaining the magic. What stood out to me was the diagram of the formulator at the beginning, at first I went huh, but when Sciona starts describing the exams/tasks it became more clear and was happy for it.
4. What are your thoughts on Sciona’s first day at work so far? In what ways is she dealing with both systemic and individual’s bias in how she navigates her first day?
I felt sorry for her and for Thomil, they are both being made fun of and bullied. I think Sciona did expect it.
Day 2 DQs: Chapter 5 - 85. Chapter five was quite lengthy and covered a lot. As Sciona explained so much to Thomil of the magic system and how it works, I feel I understand a lot more about the magic system and world building myself now. The end with the bar scene, and the two "bonding" over drinks, do you feel you have a stronger sense of the Tomlin and Sciona now as people than you did in the previous four chapters?
Yes, I definitely have a stronger sense of both of them now. Sciona explaining the magic system to Thomil showed me more of her intellectual side and also gave them reason to really talk to each other. The bar scene was especially helpful because we got to. see them interact more personally instead of as mage and assistant. I also feel like I understand Thomil better now and can see how differently the two of them view the world because of their backgrounds. Their conversations made them both feel more like real people to me rather than just mage and her assistant.
6. In this series misogyny is common, and it is a driving force of shaping the main character's situation and motivations. Do you enjoy when a book has a main character who is working against the odds of the system or group due to their race, gender, social class like this? Do you think this makes it easier for you to identify with characters when this happens in books?
Yes, I do enjoy a main character who fights against a system that is stacked against them, especially when they refuse to give up. I think it does make it easier for me to identify with a character because I naturally want to see someone who is being treated unfairly prove that they are just as capable as everyone else. In Sciona's case, knowing how hard she worked to get where she is makes the way she is treated even more frustrating.
7. As Thomil and Sciona get more comfortable with each other, a lot of intense conversations have taken place, including their differences of gods and how people are judged when they die of being "good" - action result versus intent. Do you have any theories yet on how these discussions and differences will have an impact on the story's plot and ending?
I think their discussions are going to become important later because Sciona and Thomil have such different ideas about what makes someone "good." I can see Sciona eventually having to make a difficult decision where her intentions may be good, but the consequences of her actions are not. I think Thomil's perspective could make Sciona question whether good intentions are enough. I'm curious to see if one of them eventually changes the way the other thinks.
8. The science of the magic and furthering of Thomil's education have taken up a great part of these four chapters. Do you find this interesting enough on its own, or do you feel it's hurting the pacing of the story?
I'm finding it interesting enough that it hasn't hurt the pacing for me. There is a lot of information about how the magic works, but I like that Thomil is learning along with us because it gives the explanation a purpose instead of feeling like information is just being dumped on the reader. I also think understanding the magic better is helping me understand why Sciona is so passionate about her work.
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Kings of the Wyld (other topics)Bad Monkeys (other topics)
The Last Tale of the Flower Bride (other topics)
Dracula (other topics)
The Night Circus (other topics)
More...
Authors mentioned in this topic
Simon Jimenez (other topics)Hank Green (other topics)
John Green (other topics)
For twenty years, Sciona has devoted every waking moment to the study of magic.
When she finally achieves her ambition to become the first woman admitted to the High Magistry at the University of Magics and Industry, she finds herself undermined at every turn. Instead of a lab assistant, she’s paired with a janitor, putting her crucial research at risk.
But Thomil wasn’t always a janitor. Once a nomadic hunter from the wild plains outside the city, he now sees a chance to understand the forces that decimated his tribe and drove him from his homeland.
Together they will uncover an ancient secret that could change the course of magic forever – if it doesn’t get them killed first.
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Nominator: Lexi
Official Page Count: 512