cathrine's 3 favorite reads in 2025

Discover the gripping dark academia fantasy about the limits of truth and power from the author of The Sword of Kaigen, perfect for fans of Babel by R. F. Kuang, Leigh Bardugo's Ninth House, and V. E. Schwab.

"The best fantasy novel of the year" The Guardian

"The easiest 5 star I have ever given" ***** Reader Review

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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… show more.

Rebellions aren't born. They are forged.

On Kerti Island, where knowledge is scarce and belongs solely to the regime, Zea is a Truth Seeker: scholar, polymath, advisor, prisoner—born and raised to serve. But she is done serving. Her fate will be hers to decide. And her plan might just be the spark that ignites a revolution.

Ax, a thief, doesn't care about rebellion—only money. But what if even the right price can't buy freedom under tyranny?

Veyre, a soldier, is sworn to uphold order, hunting down rebels without question. But can she keep her honor when the orders no longer… show more.

Halla is a housekeeper who has suddenly inherited her great-uncle's estate… and, unfortunately, his relatives. Sarkis is an immortal swordsman trapped in a prison of enchanted steel. When Halla draws the sword that imprisons him, Sarkis finds himself attempting to defend his new wielder against everything from bandits and roving inquisitors to her own in-laws… and the sword itself may prove to be the greatest threat of all.