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336
Novel • Fiction
Scholomance • Contemporary
2020
YA
14+ years
A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik follows Galadriel "El," a half-Welsh, half-Indian loner navigating her third year at Scholomance, a perilous magical school filled with deadly maleficaria. El works hard to build mana for her spells without resorting to malia. Her life takes a turn when she forms an alliance with Orion Lake, a mal-fighting hero, leading to unexpected friendships and challenges. The novel contains instances of racial and ethnic sensitivity.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Dark
Challenging
201,926 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Naomi Novik's A Deadly Education immerses readers in a dark, magical school with a compelling main character, El. The novel is praised for its inventive world-building and witty prose, though some find the plot uneven and critique a lack of character development. Overall, it's an engaging read for fans of inventive fantasy.
A reader who enjoys dark academia, magical school settings, and morally complex characters would relish A Deadly Education by Naomi Novik. Comparable to fans of J.K. Rowling's Harry Potter series and Lev Grossman's The Magicians, this book will captivate those who appreciate intricate world-building and intense, character-driven narratives.
201,926 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Orion Lake
Orion is El's first friend and potential romantic interest, characterized by his bravery, social awkwardness, and a natural ability to deal with dangerous creatures.
Aadhya
Aadhya is a strategic and socially skilled student who values loyalty and forms a collaborative alliance with El, enhancing their access to resources within the school.
Liu
Liu is a shy and kind student who initially dabbles in dark magic but becomes part of El and Aadhya’s alliance, revealing her nurturing nature.
Gwen Higgins
Gwen is El’s mother, known for her healing powers and mana-focused practice, who is depicted as brave, selfless, and greatly respected.
336
Novel • Fiction
Scholomance • Contemporary
2020
YA
14+ years
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