NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! 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 "provocative stand-alone novel [that] deftly incorporates elements of science and philosophy into dark academia" (The Washington Post), from the author of The Sword of Kaigen. "Bears comparison to groundbreaking works by Ursula K Le Guin . . . the best fantasy novel of the year"-The Guardian The stunning first edition hardcover features red stained edges, gold and red foil on the jacket, a full-color endpaper map, and an interior illustration of an in-world magical item 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 h