Reviews

Intelligent and clear in its intentions. Insightful and self-aware in a way I’ve never read before. The magic system is extremely unique and the structure of the novel leans heavily into its academic themes. R.F. Kuang seems to struggle with pacing in their novels, which is why I won’t give this the full 5 stars, but that “weakness” doesn’t prevent me from gobbling up the characters/subject matter of their novels. I’ll be thinking about this one for weeks (maybe years).

Content Warnings

katecuthbert's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

hspiceyson2's review against another edition

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challenging reflective medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

everaftersun's review against another edition

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first all i just wanna say: this is the most beautiful and thoughtful magic system i have ever read in any fantasy story ever. it truly changed the way i view the world and language. love love love how this book discusses language.

but i was also one of a few bipoc students at a rigorous and competitive majority white school, so this story was kinda triggering for me in a way i didn’t know it would be until now. maybe i’ll pick this book up again when i graduate from college and get my degree. but until then, it’s a bit too close to home