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The Last Bloodcarver Duology #1
The Last Bloodcarver
The tantalizing romance of These Violent Delights meets the mechanical wonders of Cinder in The Last Bloodcarver, the first in a two-book debut -- with a riveting medical magic system and lush Vietnam-inspired fantasy world.
Nhika is a bloodcarver. A cold-hearted, ruthless being who can alter human biology with just a touch. In the industrial city of Theumas, she is seen not as a healer, but a monster that kills for pleasure.
When Nhika is caught using her bloodcarving abilities during a sham medical appointment, she's captured by underground thugs and sold to an aristocratic family to heal the last witness of their father’s murder.
But as Nhika delves deeper into their investigation amidst the glitz of Theumas’ wealthiest district, she begins to notice parallels between this job and her own dark past. And when she meets an alluring yet entitled physician's aide, Ven Kochin, she’s forced to question the true intent behind this murder. In a society that outcasts her, Kochin seems drawn to her...though he takes every chance he gets to push her out of his opulent world.
When Nhika discovers that Kochin is not who he claims to be, and that there is an evil dwelling in Theumas that runs much deeper than the murder of one man, she must decide where her heart, and her allegiance, truly lie. And -- if she's willing to become the dreaded bloodcarver Theumas fears -- to save herself and the ones she's vowed to protect.
Nhika is a bloodcarver. A cold-hearted, ruthless being who can alter human biology with just a touch. In the industrial city of Theumas, she is seen not as a healer, but a monster that kills for pleasure.
When Nhika is caught using her bloodcarving abilities during a sham medical appointment, she's captured by underground thugs and sold to an aristocratic family to heal the last witness of their father’s murder.
But as Nhika delves deeper into their investigation amidst the glitz of Theumas’ wealthiest district, she begins to notice parallels between this job and her own dark past. And when she meets an alluring yet entitled physician's aide, Ven Kochin, she’s forced to question the true intent behind this murder. In a society that outcasts her, Kochin seems drawn to her...though he takes every chance he gets to push her out of his opulent world.
When Nhika discovers that Kochin is not who he claims to be, and that there is an evil dwelling in Theumas that runs much deeper than the murder of one man, she must decide where her heart, and her allegiance, truly lie. And -- if she's willing to become the dreaded bloodcarver Theumas fears -- to save herself and the ones she's vowed to protect.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published March 19, 2024
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March 30, 2024
The Diverse Baseline
February Prompt C: A book by a BIPOC author with found family
★★★½ rounded up
In a sea of extremely mediocre YA Asian Fantasy debuts, The Last Bloodcarver does the impossible and draws me in. As often is the case, Nhika falls into the trap of being naïve and cliché. She is hoodwinked by multiple people, before coming into her own.
As the wave of Vietnamese diaspora fiction continues to hit the shelves, I have been eagerly waiting for more Southeast Asian lore to make its way into my hands. Since I grew up in the West, inundated with Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology, and am slowly but surely educating myself on East Asian lore, I find myself searching for the myths of my homeland. This is a start. (Make sure you pick up The Crossbow of Destiny in August.)
Where so many of the Asian fantasies seem to go wrong is the glorification of colonization. I will be the first to admit that I was worried about how this would turn out. Fear not, Nhika is very proud to be Yarongese. As she was born in Theumas, she has never even seen her oft dreamt about homeland. She barely speaks the language. She feels unconnected to her mother and grandmother's land and healing practices. This obviously hit me in the feels.
Nhika's gift deals with healing. She is from a land of magic. The place she lives deals more with science, and these people see her as other. Deep in this underworld of training and secrets, she meets a dark haired mysterious stranger. Again, fret not. I'm eager to see how the author will continue this story.
🎧 NetGalley
February Prompt C: A book by a BIPOC author with found family
★★★½ rounded up
In a sea of extremely mediocre YA Asian Fantasy debuts, The Last Bloodcarver does the impossible and draws me in. As often is the case, Nhika falls into the trap of being naïve and cliché. She is hoodwinked by multiple people, before coming into her own.
As the wave of Vietnamese diaspora fiction continues to hit the shelves, I have been eagerly waiting for more Southeast Asian lore to make its way into my hands. Since I grew up in the West, inundated with Greek, Roman, and Norse mythology, and am slowly but surely educating myself on East Asian lore, I find myself searching for the myths of my homeland. This is a start. (Make sure you pick up The Crossbow of Destiny in August.)
Where so many of the Asian fantasies seem to go wrong is the glorification of colonization. I will be the first to admit that I was worried about how this would turn out. Fear not, Nhika is very proud to be Yarongese. As she was born in Theumas, she has never even seen her oft dreamt about homeland. She barely speaks the language. She feels unconnected to her mother and grandmother's land and healing practices. This obviously hit me in the feels.
Nhika's gift deals with healing. She is from a land of magic. The place she lives deals more with science, and these people see her as other. Deep in this underworld of training and secrets, she meets a dark haired mysterious stranger. Again, fret not. I'm eager to see how the author will continue this story.
🎧 NetGalley
March 27, 2024
I would like to thank Edelweiss and Roaring Brook Press for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
🦊What an absolute ride this was! Not only was this a gorgeous read in terms of the worldbuilding alone, but there was a bit of intrigue, a touch of murder, a soft exploration on class and cultural divisiveness, a magic system that was both esoteric and human, and a sharp, energetic group of characters i enjoyed reading a whole lot. The romance reads YA but it is what it is and i can accept that that piece is just NOT for me lol!🦊
🦾Though predictable (lbr what isn't?) i still found this compulsively readable. There was great pace to the story and a bit of feels, but for me the ultimate hook was the ending, which i thought was pretty awesome, and all kinds of dark! So i'm very much looking forward to all the ways Book 2 will expand on it, and open up this world and magic system in the future! I personally would LOVE to see more of the mech in action, and a lot more of this Vietnam-inspired fantasy landscape, because it was a pure treat to visualize!🦿
🫀All in all this was an awesome first installment of a promising duology that i can't help but be excited for, because i think there's quite a bit of story left to tell and i think i'm proper hooked lol! overall i thought this was one of the more unique offerings in YA fantasy that has successfully captured my attention because of its mature readability, propulsive narrative style, and an easy plot that asks the reader to not only consider the social stigma of "other", but to engage their "empathy organ" to find ways to heal the fractured, and to open minds closed off by trauma and loss. Fabulous debut with a whole lot more exciting storytelling from Vanessa Le still to come!🫀
🦊What an absolute ride this was! Not only was this a gorgeous read in terms of the worldbuilding alone, but there was a bit of intrigue, a touch of murder, a soft exploration on class and cultural divisiveness, a magic system that was both esoteric and human, and a sharp, energetic group of characters i enjoyed reading a whole lot. The romance reads YA but it is what it is and i can accept that that piece is just NOT for me lol!🦊
🦾Though predictable (lbr what isn't?) i still found this compulsively readable. There was great pace to the story and a bit of feels, but for me the ultimate hook was the ending, which i thought was pretty awesome, and all kinds of dark! So i'm very much looking forward to all the ways Book 2 will expand on it, and open up this world and magic system in the future! I personally would LOVE to see more of the mech in action, and a lot more of this Vietnam-inspired fantasy landscape, because it was a pure treat to visualize!🦿
🫀All in all this was an awesome first installment of a promising duology that i can't help but be excited for, because i think there's quite a bit of story left to tell and i think i'm proper hooked lol! overall i thought this was one of the more unique offerings in YA fantasy that has successfully captured my attention because of its mature readability, propulsive narrative style, and an easy plot that asks the reader to not only consider the social stigma of "other", but to engage their "empathy organ" to find ways to heal the fractured, and to open minds closed off by trauma and loss. Fabulous debut with a whole lot more exciting storytelling from Vanessa Le still to come!🫀
March 16, 2024
ARC copy provided in exchange for an honest review.
4.5 stars
This book was BRILLIANT. The fact that this is a debut author stuns me, because the worldbuilding was immaculate, the fantasy system so unique and well developed. I loved the concept of bloodcarving/heartsoothing, it was so well described and different, and much darker to most YA fantasy worlds. And this book certainly leant into the dark aspects more than I expected, which I really, really appreciated – I will always eat up a dark fantasy, and this one was scrumptious.
“This is the core of heartsoothing. Not to harm. To heal.”
And the characters AHH the characters!! I adored our two protagonists with every fibre of my being, Nhika is my precious love and deserved the whole world. I thought she was so well-written and realistic, with a believable outlook on the world (given the crap she’d dealt with) and a hilarious personality. I ADORED that this first book was entirely from her perspective, and wouldn’t change it for anything. For once, I didn’t want dual-POV! Nhika did what was best for HER and that’s just so believable, not everyone is a martyr ready to devote themselves to saving the world and giving everything up for others!
“She hadn’t had a moment so beautiful, so colorful, since she’d first started soothing. Just when she’d thought she’d learned all there was to know about the body, another system introduced itself to her, filled in first with color and then with blood, tissue, lymph.”
I also loved reading about the differing opinions and outlooks on heartsoothing, and the way Nhika’s love for the art grew throughout the book… her growth was wondrous. I won’t say much about Kochin to avoid spoilers, but don’t give up on him! He was truly gorgeous.
“…this longing, the loneliness of two flytraps in a garden of orchids.”
Overall, this book was truly splendid. Loveable characters, MASTERFUL worldbuilding, fascinating, dark, bloody magic – this gave me everything I needed AND THEN added a gorgeous Vietnamese inspired setting just to make every twice as good. And may I just say that I adore the cover? Look at my love’s flat nose and tanned skin – we love some SEA rep. Stunning. Thank you so much to the author, publisher & Colored Pages Book Tours for the ARC copy provided!
4.5 stars
This book was BRILLIANT. The fact that this is a debut author stuns me, because the worldbuilding was immaculate, the fantasy system so unique and well developed. I loved the concept of bloodcarving/heartsoothing, it was so well described and different, and much darker to most YA fantasy worlds. And this book certainly leant into the dark aspects more than I expected, which I really, really appreciated – I will always eat up a dark fantasy, and this one was scrumptious.
“This is the core of heartsoothing. Not to harm. To heal.”
And the characters AHH the characters!! I adored our two protagonists with every fibre of my being, Nhika is my precious love and deserved the whole world. I thought she was so well-written and realistic, with a believable outlook on the world (given the crap she’d dealt with) and a hilarious personality. I ADORED that this first book was entirely from her perspective, and wouldn’t change it for anything. For once, I didn’t want dual-POV! Nhika did what was best for HER and that’s just so believable, not everyone is a martyr ready to devote themselves to saving the world and giving everything up for others!
“She hadn’t had a moment so beautiful, so colorful, since she’d first started soothing. Just when she’d thought she’d learned all there was to know about the body, another system introduced itself to her, filled in first with color and then with blood, tissue, lymph.”
I also loved reading about the differing opinions and outlooks on heartsoothing, and the way Nhika’s love for the art grew throughout the book… her growth was wondrous. I won’t say much about Kochin to avoid spoilers, but don’t give up on him! He was truly gorgeous.
“…this longing, the loneliness of two flytraps in a garden of orchids.”
Overall, this book was truly splendid. Loveable characters, MASTERFUL worldbuilding, fascinating, dark, bloody magic – this gave me everything I needed AND THEN added a gorgeous Vietnamese inspired setting just to make every twice as good. And may I just say that I adore the cover? Look at my love’s flat nose and tanned skin – we love some SEA rep. Stunning. Thank you so much to the author, publisher & Colored Pages Book Tours for the ARC copy provided!
February 16, 2024
This fits The Diverse Baseline February Prompt C: A book by a BIPOC author with found family.
4.5 stars rounded up!
My friend, Ren, said she really liked this arc, so I was pretty excited to read it.
And let me tell you, it didn't disappoint! While the reveals were pretty obvious (nothing really surprised me, but YMMV), this was still a fun read.
One caveat though, it's been a few days since I've finished the arc, and I'm still not sure how I feel about the ending, which is why this isn't a perfect 5 stars.
I love how Nhika feels like a real, fully-fleshed out character instead of the typical strong female YA Chosen One trope. (I mean, she's technically a Chosen One, but it isn't in-your-face or mentioned all of the time to the point of exhaustion.) She's a very young adult, and she reads like one too. The choices she makes are reasonable for someone who grew up as part of a minority group whose family sought refuge in a neutral country when their homeland was ravaged by a colonizing nation.
For a YA novel, I think it does a really great job touching on issues such as classism (Nhika's life in poverty before the Congmis employ her), Othering (Nhika's Yarongese features, which separates her from the people of Theumas), and the diaspora experience (Nhika vs. Kochin's experiences as a mixed Yarongese person, plus their different schools of heartsoothing).
I hope we get to explore more of the world's geopolitics in the second book. We get enough to understand the situation with Nhika's people and the countries at large, but nothing more.
The novel does a really great job when it comes to Nhika's generational trauma. While she was born in Theumas, her mother and grandmother were originally from Yarong, which was colonized by Daltanny.
Her generational trauma and Yarongese diaspora experiences are clearly expressed in her yearning for a homeland she's never seen before or been to, and her desire to learn heartsoothing from a proper teacher. Her grandmother only had old textbooks to teach her with, and when Nhika is exposed to Theuman medicine and research, she realizes that her knowledge is sorely lacking. And since her people were murdered in a genocide, this knowledge is lost forever.
Here's a quote that really spoke to me:
(Quote taken from the arc and might be subject to change.)
While I appreciate the similarities and contrasts between Nhika and Kochin, and their romance wasn't the worst thing I've ever read lol, I'm still not entirely sold on the ending. No spoilers, but since this is a duology, I'm hoping for more Nhika in the second book. Kochin's all right, I guess.
Anyway, Vanessa Le is a new author that I'm excited to read more of! I'm very eager to read the second book and anything else that she writes.
Thank you to Roaring Brook Press and NetGalley for this arc.
4.5 stars rounded up!
My friend, Ren, said she really liked this arc, so I was pretty excited to read it.
And let me tell you, it didn't disappoint! While the reveals were pretty obvious (nothing really surprised me, but YMMV), this was still a fun read.
One caveat though, it's been a few days since I've finished the arc, and I'm still not sure how I feel about the ending, which is why this isn't a perfect 5 stars.
I love how Nhika feels like a real, fully-fleshed out character instead of the typical strong female YA Chosen One trope. (I mean, she's technically a Chosen One, but it isn't in-your-face or mentioned all of the time to the point of exhaustion.) She's a very young adult, and she reads like one too. The choices she makes are reasonable for someone who grew up as part of a minority group whose family sought refuge in a neutral country when their homeland was ravaged by a colonizing nation.
For a YA novel, I think it does a really great job touching on issues such as classism (Nhika's life in poverty before the Congmis employ her), Othering (Nhika's Yarongese features, which separates her from the people of Theumas), and the diaspora experience (Nhika vs. Kochin's experiences as a mixed Yarongese person, plus their different schools of heartsoothing).
I hope we get to explore more of the world's geopolitics in the second book. We get enough to understand the situation with Nhika's people and the countries at large, but nothing more.
The novel does a really great job when it comes to Nhika's generational trauma. While she was born in Theumas, her mother and grandmother were originally from Yarong, which was colonized by Daltanny.
Her generational trauma and Yarongese diaspora experiences are clearly expressed in her yearning for a homeland she's never seen before or been to, and her desire to learn heartsoothing from a proper teacher. Her grandmother only had old textbooks to teach her with, and when Nhika is exposed to Theuman medicine and research, she realizes that her knowledge is sorely lacking. And since her people were murdered in a genocide, this knowledge is lost forever.
Here's a quote that really spoke to me:
"Surely, he didn't see heartsoothing the same way she did, because how could he? How could he understand that it was her connection to her lost family, a culture she’d never had the privilege of truly knowing? How could he know how it felt to soothe, to connect to someone so intimately, not a mere substitute for empathy but a step above it? How could he see that it was not some magic she could switch on and off at whim, but a permanent fixture of her identity?"
(Quote taken from the arc and might be subject to change.)
While I appreciate the similarities and contrasts between Nhika and Kochin, and their romance wasn't the worst thing I've ever read lol, I'm still not entirely sold on the ending. No spoilers, but since this is a duology, I'm hoping for more Nhika in the second book. Kochin's all right, I guess.
Anyway, Vanessa Le is a new author that I'm excited to read more of! I'm very eager to read the second book and anything else that she writes.
Thank you to Roaring Brook Press and NetGalley for this arc.
Want to read
December 30, 2023these violent delights meets cinder ?? set in vietnam ?? 💳💳💳💳💳 need this rn
March 15, 2024
This young adult fantasy was a unique story. I listened to the audiobook and thought the narrator did a great job. My only struggle with the audiobook was that I needed to know what happens next and audio is my slowest modality for finishing a book. I liked the world building quite a bit. I love when there is a new slant to a fantasy world and this one had it. In a world of blossoming technology there once was an island of people called Heart Soothes who could heal with a touch. But their enemies grew afraid of them and called them Bloodcaver. Those people were murdered in an attempt to steal their abilities. Nhika’s family escaped but since her grandmother and parents died she has been the only Heart Soother she knows. After using her forbidden abilities to save one of her sham holistic medicine clients who would have died without her help she is repaid by being hunted by black marker traders who grab her and put her up for auction. Terrified of what would happen, since it is believed eating the heart of one of her people grants the eater the abilities, she is determined to escape. She is purchased by a teenage girl who she finds to be from of one of the richest families in the land. The girl and her family ask for her help healing a man who is in a coma after an accident that killed their father. But this family has secret motivations and the upper class world she’s now exploring is full or secrets, lies, and pitfalls. I didn’t love the ending (or the cliffhanger I am assuming will result in another book) but it was well written and a fun and wild ride.
March 11, 2024
really solid fantasy! I really loved the writing style! The atmosphere of the book was great, it's a a more gruesome book with some gore in it so be sure to check out any triggers before reading this one!
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you Netgalley for a copy of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review!
March 27, 2024
4.5 Stars
A thoroughly insatiable, dark YA fantasy that merges science, magic and Vietnamese culture in such a unique way! The tone is a little macabre (which is to be expected with a blood-based magic system.) But, thanks to the pacing and unputdownable plot twists, Vanessa Le’s remarkable prose is almost guaranteed to leave you breathless, if not a little emotionally scarred.
In a world where a rare, blood based magic allows its practitioners to alter the human body, (and the fear of such power leading to colonisation, oppression and the mass genocide of those who wield this unique ability.) We follow the orphaned Nhika, who has lived in hiding her whole life; unable to get close to anyone for fear of ending up on a mortuary slab.
After a job leads to her capture by black market dealers (known as The Butchers) Nhika is sold to the highest bidder, (the heirs of one of the wealthiest families in Theumas) and finds herself set an impossible task— to help solve a murder, by saving the life of it’s only witness.
I absolutely loved reading this was soo impressed by the ease and skill with which Le tackles some of the plot’s heavier themes (identity, grief, generational trauma, medical ethics and colonialism.) And building a vivid, compelling and character driven narrative that I was fully invested in.
The characters were exceptionally well written and full of depth which had me eager to see where their journeys would take them. Especially Nhika whose initial, morally grey demeanour (and badass take no prisoners outlook) slowly reveals a compassionate and tender-hearted young woman determined to honour her family’s legacy.
Her experiences as part of the Yarongese diaspora was explored with such incredible nuance and emotion that really tugged on my heartstrings. Given what’s currently happening right now in the world, it’s hard not to resonate with Nhika’s story and her yearning to recapture the heritage lost through violent occupation (and the destruction of her ancestral homeland and it’s people.)
It may be a tough read for some (and will most certainly emotionally devastate you) but it’s an absolute must read that fantasy lovers and fans of anti-colonialism and stories that overcome adversity should definitely consider to checking out — just be sure to check TWs and prepare to SOB an unprecedented amount.
We do also get a delicious, but fairly swift, enemies to lovers-style relationship between Nhika and love interest, Kochin (which I loved) that does break up some of the more emotionally intense scenes.
Overall, a beautifully thrilling new YA fantasy from a phenomenal new voice that has me eager to get my hands on the sequel immediately!
Also, a huge thank you to Rock the Boat for the gorgeous proof.
A thoroughly insatiable, dark YA fantasy that merges science, magic and Vietnamese culture in such a unique way! The tone is a little macabre (which is to be expected with a blood-based magic system.) But, thanks to the pacing and unputdownable plot twists, Vanessa Le’s remarkable prose is almost guaranteed to leave you breathless, if not a little emotionally scarred.
In a world where a rare, blood based magic allows its practitioners to alter the human body, (and the fear of such power leading to colonisation, oppression and the mass genocide of those who wield this unique ability.) We follow the orphaned Nhika, who has lived in hiding her whole life; unable to get close to anyone for fear of ending up on a mortuary slab.
After a job leads to her capture by black market dealers (known as The Butchers) Nhika is sold to the highest bidder, (the heirs of one of the wealthiest families in Theumas) and finds herself set an impossible task— to help solve a murder, by saving the life of it’s only witness.
I absolutely loved reading this was soo impressed by the ease and skill with which Le tackles some of the plot’s heavier themes (identity, grief, generational trauma, medical ethics and colonialism.) And building a vivid, compelling and character driven narrative that I was fully invested in.
The characters were exceptionally well written and full of depth which had me eager to see where their journeys would take them. Especially Nhika whose initial, morally grey demeanour (and badass take no prisoners outlook) slowly reveals a compassionate and tender-hearted young woman determined to honour her family’s legacy.
Her experiences as part of the Yarongese diaspora was explored with such incredible nuance and emotion that really tugged on my heartstrings. Given what’s currently happening right now in the world, it’s hard not to resonate with Nhika’s story and her yearning to recapture the heritage lost through violent occupation (and the destruction of her ancestral homeland and it’s people.)
It may be a tough read for some (and will most certainly emotionally devastate you) but it’s an absolute must read that fantasy lovers and fans of anti-colonialism and stories that overcome adversity should definitely consider to checking out — just be sure to check TWs and prepare to SOB an unprecedented amount.
We do also get a delicious, but fairly swift, enemies to lovers-style relationship between Nhika and love interest, Kochin (which I loved) that does break up some of the more emotionally intense scenes.
Overall, a beautifully thrilling new YA fantasy from a phenomenal new voice that has me eager to get my hands on the sequel immediately!
Also, a huge thank you to Rock the Boat for the gorgeous proof.
April 3, 2024
The Last Bloodcarver is a lush Vietnamese inspired fantasy that follows Nhika, a bloodcarver aka a person who can alter human biology. After Nhika was caught using her abilities, she’s captured and sold to an aristocratic family to heal the witness to their father’s murder.
I LOVE when magic systems incorporate science, human physiology in this case, and really dives into the limitations and consequences of both. Not sure if medical fantasy is a thing, but that’s exactly what this is.
Nhika is an incredible FMC. She embodies female rage (especially as the last of her kind) and feralness, but her magic means that she’s always called to heal even when she knows it puts her life at risk. Nhika is so incredibly strong and determined, but she never forgets her family’s heritage.
There is a romance plot that does take place. I was a bit apprehensive at first since it’s described as assholes to lovers, but not only is this trope accurate, this romance makes sense for Nhika and fuels her even more.
My only gripe is that this one ends on one heck of a cliffhanger, and I NEED book two.
Thank you Fierce Reads and Macmillan Audio for providing a review copy.
I LOVE when magic systems incorporate science, human physiology in this case, and really dives into the limitations and consequences of both. Not sure if medical fantasy is a thing, but that’s exactly what this is.
Nhika is an incredible FMC. She embodies female rage (especially as the last of her kind) and feralness, but her magic means that she’s always called to heal even when she knows it puts her life at risk. Nhika is so incredibly strong and determined, but she never forgets her family’s heritage.
There is a romance plot that does take place. I was a bit apprehensive at first since it’s described as assholes to lovers, but not only is this trope accurate, this romance makes sense for Nhika and fuels her even more.
My only gripe is that this one ends on one heck of a cliffhanger, and I NEED book two.
Thank you Fierce Reads and Macmillan Audio for providing a review copy.
March 21, 2024
4.25 stars
thank you to Colored Pages Book Tour and Fierce Reads for the arc!!
this book shocked me speechless wow. it was so interesting and i sped through this book so fast. the writing is exceptional, and the descriptions were beautiful but not over the top, which often distracts me. the plot was paced out perfectly, i'm someone who often struggles with the first 25% of a book so this was super engaging and i didn't even put the book down until i was around 60% in???
nhika was such a great main character to follow, she has depth and i can understand her line of thinking and decisions most times. the side characters are also very interesting to read about and i kept finding myself wanting more of nhika's interactions with them! the worldbuilding of this book was done very well, i could picture the setting of everything happening. also, the bloodcarving/heartsoothing system was super intriguing to read about!
the ending of this book was SHOCKING. i was wondering how the book was going to end when i reached around the 85% mark and i was very very surprised by the direction it took. the mystery aspect of this book was captivating and i liked that it wasn't so complex because i was able to guess a bit of it (which i'm very proud of). although the ending is kinda cliffhangery, i like that i don't want to completely sob until the next book releases for answers but instead, i will be counting down the days.
overall, i highly recommend this book if anyone is looking for a fun fantasy read!!
thank you to Colored Pages Book Tour and Fierce Reads for the arc!!
this book shocked me speechless wow. it was so interesting and i sped through this book so fast. the writing is exceptional, and the descriptions were beautiful but not over the top, which often distracts me. the plot was paced out perfectly, i'm someone who often struggles with the first 25% of a book so this was super engaging and i didn't even put the book down until i was around 60% in???
nhika was such a great main character to follow, she has depth and i can understand her line of thinking and decisions most times. the side characters are also very interesting to read about and i kept finding myself wanting more of nhika's interactions with them! the worldbuilding of this book was done very well, i could picture the setting of everything happening. also, the bloodcarving/heartsoothing system was super intriguing to read about!
the ending of this book was SHOCKING. i was wondering how the book was going to end when i reached around the 85% mark and i was very very surprised by the direction it took. the mystery aspect of this book was captivating and i liked that it wasn't so complex because i was able to guess a bit of it (which i'm very proud of). although the ending is kinda cliffhangery, i like that i don't want to completely sob until the next book releases for answers but instead, i will be counting down the days.
overall, i highly recommend this book if anyone is looking for a fun fantasy read!!
March 10, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and OneWorld Publications, for providing me with this arc in exchange for my honest review.
This was a nice YA fantasy debut. Imperfect but I enjoyed reading it despite its flaws.
I have to mention the amazing cover, title and map!!
This all starts with the death of an important businessman, the founder of Cogmi Industries. Is his death an accident or an assassination?
Nhika is a girl with special powers, she can use them to heal or kill. She’s one of the only people left with these special abilities as most of the others were killed. She hides her abilities because people fear her kind.
Most of and the strength of this book is about her feeling different and lonely and guilty about not being able to save her mother and not being able to live up to her legacy. Her development throughout this story is great.
When someone she helped betrays her, she is soon caught, caged and sold as a rare good at the black market. She ends up at the Cogmi family who ask her to do something under false pretences. Unfortunately, not long after she finds out the truth and that making me expect exciting/interesting developments, the story starts dragging and repeating itself. I was so relieved when it picked up again about halfway. It was worth it to keep reading because the rest of the book had a nice flow and the ending was incredible.
There’s a nice budding romance in the second half and a fragile but important found family trope which I always love.
This was a nice YA fantasy debut. Imperfect but I enjoyed reading it despite its flaws.
I have to mention the amazing cover, title and map!!
This all starts with the death of an important businessman, the founder of Cogmi Industries. Is his death an accident or an assassination?
Nhika is a girl with special powers, she can use them to heal or kill. She’s one of the only people left with these special abilities as most of the others were killed. She hides her abilities because people fear her kind.
Most of and the strength of this book is about her feeling different and lonely and guilty about not being able to save her mother and not being able to live up to her legacy. Her development throughout this story is great.
When someone she helped betrays her, she is soon caught, caged and sold as a rare good at the black market. She ends up at the Cogmi family who ask her to do something under false pretences. Unfortunately, not long after she finds out the truth and that making me expect exciting/interesting developments, the story starts dragging and repeating itself. I was so relieved when it picked up again about halfway. It was worth it to keep reading because the rest of the book had a nice flow and the ending was incredible.
There’s a nice budding romance in the second half and a fragile but important found family trope which I always love.
Want to read
February 26, 2024"When Nhika is caught using her bloodcarving abilities during a sham medical appointment, she's captured by underground thugs and sold to an aristocratic family to heal the last witness of their father’s murder... But as Nhika delves deeper into their investigation amidst the glitz of Theumas’ wealthiest district, she begins to notice parallels between this job and her own dark past."
April 4, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
Read this along with the author and it was truly magical. I love doing this because it makes me understands the world and the characters a lot better.
I am so happy to finally read a book with Vietnamese names!!
This is how a YA book should be written. The tension was JUST the right amount. A page turner and kept me at the edge of my seat through out the whole book.
I need book 2 right now.
Read this along with the author and it was truly magical. I love doing this because it makes me understands the world and the characters a lot better.
I am so happy to finally read a book with Vietnamese names!!
This is how a YA book should be written. The tension was JUST the right amount. A page turner and kept me at the edge of my seat through out the whole book.
I need book 2 right now.
March 18, 2024
Let me get this out of the way: the ending was STUPID. It could have easily wrapped up a variety of ways and been sent off into this green earth, but the author or publisher or someone must have wanted a sequel, because the author made Nhika a freaking imbecile in order to create a plot for the second book of her duology, and that frustrates me. If you're going to write a duology, fine. Don't make your previously intelligent characters IDIOTS in order to do that.
If you ignore the last few pages, this book was quite good. So good, in fact, that I had already started jotting down praising notes and commendations for a glowing 4*-star review that I would have recommended to everyone who enjoys the genre. I think my exact words were: "Is it perfect? No. Is it excellent? YES." In fact, aside from a few minor inconsistencies (and the idiotic ending) there was very little wrong with this book and whole lot good about it.
The world that's spun in The Last Bloodcarver is somewhere between fantasy and steampunk and brings to mind Marissa Meyer's Lunar Chronicles, though where that series seems futuristic, this one seems historical. It's an interesting, clever world with prejudices and politics that you don't often see so well-crafted in a YA.
The plot is a bit of a shifting thing that keeps developing as the story progresses, which makes it seem alive and breathing along with the characters and generally kept me hooked, though it did slow down a bit at one point before picking up again and never letting go. Still, even this slow point moved along steadily with pages quick to flip one after another, and when I picked it up, I truly didn't want to put it down.
While, as aforementioned, Nhika was necessarily stupid in the finale for the way the author wrote the ending in order to create a plot for the sequel, the rest of the time she was quite sharp. She had depth and obvious motivation, longing for a family like the one she lost when she was too young, her heart softer than she pretends it to be. I appreciated her as a character (except in the finale) because it's somewhat uncommon to find female characters with whole personalities who seem like real people, especially in YA, but this book excelled at it.
For a while, I didn't understand how the romance and love interest would make sense, but finally things clicked into place, and I grew to like Ven Kochin so much more. There was more to him than I realized, and everything he was made sense for his character arc. I really enjoyed him and his bond with Nhika.
Alongside these two were a handful of other characters that all played reasonably significant roles in the story. They each had character traits that set them apart, and I was intrigued in all of them any time they were on the page.
Overall, the uniqueness of this world and the richness of the characters in it, developed through the skilled writing of its author made this a good book that I was invested in. It was almost a great book, but that ending left me with a bitter feeling of frustration that it took me a while to overcome even to write this review, and I'm not sure whether I will push past that to read the sequel. Do be aware that these characters' stories do not get a HFN, and the sequel will be a necessary read if you want to get their full story. If you're okay with that, then this is a solid YA read that shines in its genre, and you'd be hard-pressed to not enjoy it.
The Last Bloodcarver ***TRIGGER WARNINGS***:
~Caged animals for sale in an underground market
~Killing of a monkey and another small animal
~Guns/knives
~Blood, corpses, mild gore, mild anatomical horror
~Blackmail/threats
If you ignore the last few pages, this book was quite good. So good, in fact, that I had already started jotting down praising notes and commendations for a glowing 4*-star review that I would have recommended to everyone who enjoys the genre. I think my exact words were: "Is it perfect? No. Is it excellent? YES." In fact, aside from a few minor inconsistencies (and the idiotic ending) there was very little wrong with this book and whole lot good about it.
The world that's spun in The Last Bloodcarver is somewhere between fantasy and steampunk and brings to mind Marissa Meyer's Lunar Chronicles, though where that series seems futuristic, this one seems historical. It's an interesting, clever world with prejudices and politics that you don't often see so well-crafted in a YA.
The plot is a bit of a shifting thing that keeps developing as the story progresses, which makes it seem alive and breathing along with the characters and generally kept me hooked, though it did slow down a bit at one point before picking up again and never letting go. Still, even this slow point moved along steadily with pages quick to flip one after another, and when I picked it up, I truly didn't want to put it down.
While, as aforementioned, Nhika was necessarily stupid in the finale for the way the author wrote the ending in order to create a plot for the sequel, the rest of the time she was quite sharp. She had depth and obvious motivation, longing for a family like the one she lost when she was too young, her heart softer than she pretends it to be. I appreciated her as a character (except in the finale) because it's somewhat uncommon to find female characters with whole personalities who seem like real people, especially in YA, but this book excelled at it.
For a while, I didn't understand how the romance and love interest would make sense, but finally things clicked into place, and I grew to like Ven Kochin so much more. There was more to him than I realized, and everything he was made sense for his character arc. I really enjoyed him and his bond with Nhika.
Alongside these two were a handful of other characters that all played reasonably significant roles in the story. They each had character traits that set them apart, and I was intrigued in all of them any time they were on the page.
Overall, the uniqueness of this world and the richness of the characters in it, developed through the skilled writing of its author made this a good book that I was invested in. It was almost a great book, but that ending left me with a bitter feeling of frustration that it took me a while to overcome even to write this review, and I'm not sure whether I will push past that to read the sequel. Do be aware that these characters' stories do not get a HFN, and the sequel will be a necessary read if you want to get their full story. If you're okay with that, then this is a solid YA read that shines in its genre, and you'd be hard-pressed to not enjoy it.
The Last Bloodcarver ***TRIGGER WARNINGS***:
~Caged animals for sale in an underground market
~Killing of a monkey and another small animal
~Guns/knives
~Blood, corpses, mild gore, mild anatomical horror
~Blackmail/threats
Want to read
June 14, 2023Not particularly a fan of romance, but other things in the synopsis have intrigued me.
March 23, 2024
An intelligent debut
I bought this book because of the spectacular cover,
. Judge this book by its cover!
Of course you want to know what a Bloodcarver is. The best place to begin is Vanessa Le's author biography
Although Nhika grew up in Central Theumas and knows no other place, her mother and father escaped from the conquered and oppressed Island of Yarong, where all heartsooths came from. Because Theumas fears bloodcarvers, Nhika hides her abilities. But she is discovered, captured, and sold to the wealthiest family in Theumas. They want her to heal a man in a coma, whom they believe to have witnessed the murder of their father. Nhika is, as far as she knows, the last heartsooth.
Theumas is an unusual setting for a fantasy novel. Fantasy novels tend to take place in pre-technological, feudal settings, and Theumas is not that. It is comparable to twentieth century Earth in many ways: they have electric lights and firearms and automata and sophisticated medical technologies. Neither is The Last Bloodcarver Urban Fantasy, either. It is something quite new and original.
The story that ensues is a good one. I knew without reading her biography that Le had studied medicine and neuroscience. It is also an exceptionally intelligent plot. The characters are complex and interesting.
I had one complaint. Most of the novel felt emotionally flat -- if I could explain what exactly I mean by that, I would. Despite all the interesting things happening, I somehow didn't feel emotionally involved. I say "most of the novel", because the last four chapters were different. The story comes to a gripping climax.
The Last Bloodcarver is the first novel of a Duology. We must wait an entire year for His Mortal Demise,
!
Blog review.
I bought this book because of the spectacular cover,
. Judge this book by its cover!Of course you want to know what a Bloodcarver is. The best place to begin is Vanessa Le's author biography
Vanessa Le graduated from Brown University with a degree in Health and Human Biology and now resides in Portland, Oregon. Her writing is an expression of her love for medicine and her Vietnamese heritage. When not writing, she can be found studying medicine, spoiling her two Shiba Inus, or wishing she were writing.A heartsooth, we learn, is a healer who communicates and affects the body through touch. "Bloodcarver" is a sort of slur used for a heartsooth by those who don't understand. One suspects that Le herself aspires to be something like a heartsooth.
Although Nhika grew up in Central Theumas and knows no other place, her mother and father escaped from the conquered and oppressed Island of Yarong, where all heartsooths came from. Because Theumas fears bloodcarvers, Nhika hides her abilities. But she is discovered, captured, and sold to the wealthiest family in Theumas. They want her to heal a man in a coma, whom they believe to have witnessed the murder of their father. Nhika is, as far as she knows, the last heartsooth.
Theumas is an unusual setting for a fantasy novel. Fantasy novels tend to take place in pre-technological, feudal settings, and Theumas is not that. It is comparable to twentieth century Earth in many ways: they have electric lights and firearms and automata and sophisticated medical technologies. Neither is The Last Bloodcarver Urban Fantasy, either. It is something quite new and original.
The story that ensues is a good one. I knew without reading her biography that Le had studied medicine and neuroscience. It is also an exceptionally intelligent plot. The characters are complex and interesting.
I had one complaint. Most of the novel felt emotionally flat -- if I could explain what exactly I mean by that, I would. Despite all the interesting things happening, I somehow didn't feel emotionally involved. I say "most of the novel", because the last four chapters were different. The story comes to a gripping climax.
The Last Bloodcarver is the first novel of a Duology. We must wait an entire year for His Mortal Demise,
!Blog review.
March 18, 2024
Nhika is a bloodcarver. She can alter human biology with just a touch, to heal or harm. In the industrial city of Theumas, she is seen not as a healer, but a monster that kills for pleasure.
When she is caught using her bloodcarving abilities during a sham medical appointment, she's captured by underground thugs and sold to an aristocratic family to heal the last witness of their father’s murder. When she meets an alluring yet entitled physician's aide, Ven Kochin, she’s forced to question the true intent behind this murder. In a society that outcasts her, Kochin seems drawn to her while also pushing her away. He's not who he says he is. Will she have to become the dreaded bloodcarver Theumas fears to save herself and the ones she's vowed to protect?
Have you finished a book and feel you NEED to read the next one immediately? That's what happened when I read The Last Bloodcarver. I even started to feel that way while still reading. The Last Bloodcarver, coming March 19, is the first in a Vietnam inspired fantasy duology. This is a debut novel by the way.
It's so good! So different! Nhika is not your typical fantasy heroine. No one expects her to save everyone, including her. That may just be what she ends up doing though. Nothing in her life has been fair. She has only had her skills to rely on. It hasn't gained her any friends. Or love.
The magic system is unique and is more of a science, according to Nhika anyway. Descriptions of pathways through the body are detailed but lovely. There are also some gruesome, brutal scenes.
The Last Bloodcarver is also a mystery. I enjoyed watching the characters try to solve it. Speaking of the characters they are all interesting and great in their own way. Poor Hendon. I was holding my breath for the last chapters, worried at every step the characters took.
There isn't enough space here to declare all the things I loved about this. If you love fantasy or mysteries add this to your list! Thanks to @fiercereads for the giveaway win!
When she is caught using her bloodcarving abilities during a sham medical appointment, she's captured by underground thugs and sold to an aristocratic family to heal the last witness of their father’s murder. When she meets an alluring yet entitled physician's aide, Ven Kochin, she’s forced to question the true intent behind this murder. In a society that outcasts her, Kochin seems drawn to her while also pushing her away. He's not who he says he is. Will she have to become the dreaded bloodcarver Theumas fears to save herself and the ones she's vowed to protect?
Have you finished a book and feel you NEED to read the next one immediately? That's what happened when I read The Last Bloodcarver. I even started to feel that way while still reading. The Last Bloodcarver, coming March 19, is the first in a Vietnam inspired fantasy duology. This is a debut novel by the way.
It's so good! So different! Nhika is not your typical fantasy heroine. No one expects her to save everyone, including her. That may just be what she ends up doing though. Nothing in her life has been fair. She has only had her skills to rely on. It hasn't gained her any friends. Or love.
The magic system is unique and is more of a science, according to Nhika anyway. Descriptions of pathways through the body are detailed but lovely. There are also some gruesome, brutal scenes.
The Last Bloodcarver is also a mystery. I enjoyed watching the characters try to solve it. Speaking of the characters they are all interesting and great in their own way. Poor Hendon. I was holding my breath for the last chapters, worried at every step the characters took.
There isn't enough space here to declare all the things I loved about this. If you love fantasy or mysteries add this to your list! Thanks to @fiercereads for the giveaway win!
March 21, 2024
Thanks to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and Roaring Brook Press for gifted access via Netgalley. All opinions below are my own.
I love fantasy that is unique and immersive and yet accessible to people who don't read fantasy. This story is that. You get immersed in the Vietnamese culture and the unique and dying art of heartsoothing, an art which allows people to heal others. Nhika is on the run because of her talent as a 'bloodcarver' because with the ability to heal comes the ability to harm. When she is caught and subsequently purchased by one of the richest families to heal the witness to the patriarch's murder. Suddenly she is caught in a web of intrigue where she is sought after and able to enjoy the better things in life. This also puts her squarely in danger.
The pace of this story was perfect. Not too much world building but plenty of time to understand the healing magic and the history of Nhika's people. The murder mystery is at the center but there is also a great story of finding your place in the world and of course a story of love. Unlike many series of the day, there is an ending and yet a nice open door to book two that won't leave you frustrated.
Read this one if you liked Dana Schwartz's Anatomy series or Kerri Maniscalco's Stalking Jack the Ripper.
I love fantasy that is unique and immersive and yet accessible to people who don't read fantasy. This story is that. You get immersed in the Vietnamese culture and the unique and dying art of heartsoothing, an art which allows people to heal others. Nhika is on the run because of her talent as a 'bloodcarver' because with the ability to heal comes the ability to harm. When she is caught and subsequently purchased by one of the richest families to heal the witness to the patriarch's murder. Suddenly she is caught in a web of intrigue where she is sought after and able to enjoy the better things in life. This also puts her squarely in danger.
The pace of this story was perfect. Not too much world building but plenty of time to understand the healing magic and the history of Nhika's people. The murder mystery is at the center but there is also a great story of finding your place in the world and of course a story of love. Unlike many series of the day, there is an ending and yet a nice open door to book two that won't leave you frustrated.
Read this one if you liked Dana Schwartz's Anatomy series or Kerri Maniscalco's Stalking Jack the Ripper.
April 17, 2024
This was fantastic!!! I loved Nhika and the unique science based magic system. The mystery and the world were both interesting, and I’m sooo intrigued by the sequel. The last 25% of the book had me HOOKED. This was close to a 5 star, I just wish the plot was paced a bit better as there were some slower parts. The romance also felt very insta-love, and it could have been such a good slow burn! 😫
October 20, 2023
What is it like when an integral piece of who you are becomes outlawed? With knowledge passed down from her grandmother and her grandmother before that, Nhika is the only one left to carry on the knowledge of her people. In secret, she is forced to practice her bloodcarving abilities, using it to heal people for just enough money to survive. But when a sham medical appointment gets her caught by underground thugs and then bought by an aristocratic family, Nhika is given the chance to learn the knowledge that was stolen from her and her people.
One thing that fantasy as a genre is lacking much of is explicitly diaspora main characters. It’s so strange to me how many people I know who yearn for a place that is no longer theirs and yet I see it so rarely in fantasy. But I feel a special kind of kinship to Nhika for the things that she has been cut off from. The way that she is desperate to learn more about herself and her heritage is a specific kind of solemnity that I know very dearly, and her apprehension to trust anyone in a world that always sees her as the other makes me homesick for a place that doesn’t even exist.
I’m especially fond of how this book highlights two entirely different diaspora experiences in one story. Nhika and Kochin come from the same place but have vastly different experiences and understandings of themselves and their relationship to home, and I think it’s beautiful how Le is able to emphasize how each of them came to their own conclusions. With so few explicitly diaspora stories in second world fantasy stories, it’s refreshing to be so blatantly clear that the diaspora experience is not a linear one and everyone has a different experience. The diaspora experience is not a monolith.
On a smaller note, I really appreciated the emphasis on how propagandized language is used. It parallels the way that states use specific language to encourage the masses to draw conclusions on different peoples. It’s a subtle violence that can radicalize people without them even realizing it and I love the call out here. Nhika is known as a bloodcarver, a name that instills fear because of what she can do to the inside of people’s bodies. But her people, who can no longer speak for themselves, called people like her a heartsoothe, because their purpose is to heal. The difference between the two is so stark, and such a strong example of how language can change the opinions of the masses.
I thoroughly appreciate all the ways that diaspora experience shows up in this story, especially for a second world fantasy. It’s honest and sincere in the details that remind you that the author understands. It’s in the details, in the comments, in the insecurities, in the yearning. This story is told through a lens of diaspora, and in the same way that Nhika finds home in her magic and knowledge, to me, The Last Bloodcarver feels like a glimpse of home.
One thing that fantasy as a genre is lacking much of is explicitly diaspora main characters. It’s so strange to me how many people I know who yearn for a place that is no longer theirs and yet I see it so rarely in fantasy. But I feel a special kind of kinship to Nhika for the things that she has been cut off from. The way that she is desperate to learn more about herself and her heritage is a specific kind of solemnity that I know very dearly, and her apprehension to trust anyone in a world that always sees her as the other makes me homesick for a place that doesn’t even exist.
I’m especially fond of how this book highlights two entirely different diaspora experiences in one story. Nhika and Kochin come from the same place but have vastly different experiences and understandings of themselves and their relationship to home, and I think it’s beautiful how Le is able to emphasize how each of them came to their own conclusions. With so few explicitly diaspora stories in second world fantasy stories, it’s refreshing to be so blatantly clear that the diaspora experience is not a linear one and everyone has a different experience. The diaspora experience is not a monolith.
On a smaller note, I really appreciated the emphasis on how propagandized language is used. It parallels the way that states use specific language to encourage the masses to draw conclusions on different peoples. It’s a subtle violence that can radicalize people without them even realizing it and I love the call out here. Nhika is known as a bloodcarver, a name that instills fear because of what she can do to the inside of people’s bodies. But her people, who can no longer speak for themselves, called people like her a heartsoothe, because their purpose is to heal. The difference between the two is so stark, and such a strong example of how language can change the opinions of the masses.
I thoroughly appreciate all the ways that diaspora experience shows up in this story, especially for a second world fantasy. It’s honest and sincere in the details that remind you that the author understands. It’s in the details, in the comments, in the insecurities, in the yearning. This story is told through a lens of diaspora, and in the same way that Nhika finds home in her magic and knowledge, to me, The Last Bloodcarver feels like a glimpse of home.
April 25, 2024
Nhika has the ability to alter human biology with a touch. When she's drawn into a murder investigation, she has to decide whether to use her ability to heal or kill.
This is all about how it feels to be Other, in a world where you are judged by your heritage. Vanessa Le perfectly captures the feeling of wanting to be closer to your ancestors and more connected with your heritage (something I personally feel as an Asian-American). This was so well-written, original, and compelling — I can't recommend it enough!
This is all about how it feels to be Other, in a world where you are judged by your heritage. Vanessa Le perfectly captures the feeling of wanting to be closer to your ancestors and more connected with your heritage (something I personally feel as an Asian-American). This was so well-written, original, and compelling — I can't recommend it enough!
March 26, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up to 4. It took me a little while to get into the narration of this book, but I think the intended audience will find it enjoyable. VyVy Nguyen's voice is well suited to Nhika's character. I very much enjoyed the world building, learning about the tech and the lore and how they interact with one another, but unfortunately the plot felt pretty predictable to me for a good chunk of the story. I will say that the ending was enough of a surprise to keep me interested in the second book, and curious to see how the world will expand. I also hope we get to know side characters more in depth in the next book. While I liked the main character well enough I didn't always feel particularly connected to her, and the romance aspect was rather sudden to me, though somewhat understandable. I think Nhika's internal reflection does a good enough job of addressing her own feelings about the romance. Vanessa Le does a fantastic job of setting tone and creating atmosphere with descriptions of history, technological developments, and social structures within this world and I hope to get even more of these details in future titles.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan audio!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan audio!
October 19, 2023
The aggressiveness with which I was stalking this book’s GoodReads page before I got this ARC cannot be undersold. The Last Bloodcarver is Vanessa Le’s debut novel, set in a world of Vietnam-inspired fantasy that’s been drenched in a steampunk kind of grit. Nhika is our leading lady and believes herself to be the last Heartsoothe left after the country of her ancestors was conquered and their descendants hunted down for experiments.
(I’ll be saying Hearthsoothe since Bloodcarver is thrown around like a slur, and my name may as well be Valentina. ALLY!)
After being caught and sold on the black market, Nhika is dragged into an aristocratic family’s sphere when she’s tasked with healing the only witness to their patriarch’s suspicious death. She’s left not only to deal with the most challenging medical case she’s yet to face, but also a social circle that likely contains the murderer so it’s a good thing she can soothe her own ulcer.
He regarded her as she'd regarded the ocean: with equal parts awe and fascination. Like she was both the tempest that sank junks and the gentle lap of water at the side of his houseboat.
I think Vanessa Le is going to be an absolute powerhouse, that said I will say that there were parts of this book that I’d still categorize as potential. I found the magic system to be interesting and the narrative descriptions of the magic in action to be vivid in a way that made me think of prose, albeit for bio majors. While a lot of the banter was enjoyable, some of the character development decisions didn’t totally make sense to me. I felt like the characters’ attitudes toward each other changed a few times throughout, but I didn’t really see the foundations for those shifts throughout. This can be said for the dynamics between both Nhika and the Cogmi family and Nhika and her love interest.
"You two are involved? I wasn't aware he was capable of emotion." A soft look came over Andao's eyes. "It's not about what he says, but what he does." "Isn't that what you hire him for? To do things?" That elicited a laugh from him. "He's hired only to keep me alive. Yet, I wouldn't want to live without him."
The romantic subplot in particular took me out of the story. The relationship was so deep in the enemies category for so much of the book that despite the synopsis I completely forgot that a love interest was promised in the synopsis. It shifted then to something that felt a little too close to instalove for my comfort. I just wish the main couple had gotten a little more time to develop because the secondary couple, Trin and Andao (my two sons), were so sweet I wanted nothing but them. I’d be willing to kill off other characters in exchange for a look into these two just puttering about their lives.
The Last Bloodcarver was imperfect but still a fun read. It feels safe to assume that Vanessa Le is going to be absolutely killin’ it in the near future!
(I’ll be saying Hearthsoothe since Bloodcarver is thrown around like a slur, and my name may as well be Valentina. ALLY!)
After being caught and sold on the black market, Nhika is dragged into an aristocratic family’s sphere when she’s tasked with healing the only witness to their patriarch’s suspicious death. She’s left not only to deal with the most challenging medical case she’s yet to face, but also a social circle that likely contains the murderer so it’s a good thing she can soothe her own ulcer.
He regarded her as she'd regarded the ocean: with equal parts awe and fascination. Like she was both the tempest that sank junks and the gentle lap of water at the side of his houseboat.
I think Vanessa Le is going to be an absolute powerhouse, that said I will say that there were parts of this book that I’d still categorize as potential. I found the magic system to be interesting and the narrative descriptions of the magic in action to be vivid in a way that made me think of prose, albeit for bio majors. While a lot of the banter was enjoyable, some of the character development decisions didn’t totally make sense to me. I felt like the characters’ attitudes toward each other changed a few times throughout, but I didn’t really see the foundations for those shifts throughout. This can be said for the dynamics between both Nhika and the Cogmi family and Nhika and her love interest.
"You two are involved? I wasn't aware he was capable of emotion." A soft look came over Andao's eyes. "It's not about what he says, but what he does." "Isn't that what you hire him for? To do things?" That elicited a laugh from him. "He's hired only to keep me alive. Yet, I wouldn't want to live without him."
The romantic subplot in particular took me out of the story. The relationship was so deep in the enemies category for so much of the book that despite the synopsis I completely forgot that a love interest was promised in the synopsis. It shifted then to something that felt a little too close to instalove for my comfort. I just wish the main couple had gotten a little more time to develop because the secondary couple, Trin and Andao (my two sons), were so sweet I wanted nothing but them. I’d be willing to kill off other characters in exchange for a look into these two just puttering about their lives.
The Last Bloodcarver was imperfect but still a fun read. It feels safe to assume that Vanessa Le is going to be absolutely killin’ it in the near future!
February 25, 2024
read on my blog
rep: Vietnamese inspiration and -coded cast; (Vietnamese-American author)
cw: mentions of loss of loved ones (mother, grandmother), blood, gore, human experimentation
**I received an ARC from the publisher through Netgalley. These are my honest opinions, and in no way was I compensated for this review.**
Ever since I first heard about this book, I knew I had to read it. I’m always up for uplifting Vietnamese voices, especially in YA, and I was particularly excited to find out about this Vietnamese-inspired fantasy!
Nhika is a bloodcarver, someone who can alter human biology and whose magic is vilified. She makes a living as a healer, secretly using her powers to treat people. When she’s caught one day by underground thugs, she’s sold to an aristocratic family who wants her to use her families to save the only witness to their father’s murder. As she spends more time with them though, she discovers deadly secrets amidst this mystery—especially with Ven Kochin, a physician’s assistant, popping up everywhere she turns.
I particularly loved the diasporic aspect of this book, which I feel like we don’t get to see much in YA fantasy. After the deaths of her grandmother and her mother, Nhika has no connections to her heritage. The only thing she’s held onto is her heartsoothing magic, although even then, her knowledge of the extent of her magic is very limited. She clings to what she can, though, and I completely related to her complex feelings about how deeply she wants to know more about her own culture without the means to do so.
Meanwhile, Kochin has more knowledge of their shared heritage, but he’s had to hide those parts of himself in a country that hates bloodcarvers. He and Nhika can’t help but be drawn to each other, even though he’s trying to keep her at an arm’s length to keep her safe.
I will say that I thought the romance was a little too fast-paced to me, just because I don’t think it had as much development as it could have. That being said though, the ending was so good and I can’t wait to read the sequel. If you’re in the market for the start of a thrilling duology with Vietnamese inspiration, you should definitely pick up The Last Bloodcarver!
original review:
v interesting premise and worldbuilding ! we don’t see enough of diaspora in fantasy, so it was nice exploring how nhika feels like she’s lost all her cultural roots with the loss of her family.
the romance was a bit lacking for me though…like I feel like we were still very slowly building up to them and then all of a sudden they’re in love idk the development could’ve been better imo
February 7, 2024
I was lucky to have obtained a ARC copy of this book and might I say- there was only so many words that I can use to describe this story yet none will do it justice. A POC murder mystery fantasy was a much needed addition to the shelves and I loved every page of it.
This fantasy story had a world of its own and while the author did not spend too much time throwing pages of world building at her readers, she was able to focus on the plot.
A beautiful enemies to lovers where the love interest was only ever looking out for the MC was so heart tugging. And the side romance? My heart fluttered at the soft moments of romance.
If there is a second part to this story, I cannot wait. I am in love with the world of the Heartsooth, Nihka and all the other characters. This was such a well written debut novel that I know everyone will love.
This fantasy story had a world of its own and while the author did not spend too much time throwing pages of world building at her readers, she was able to focus on the plot.
A beautiful enemies to lovers where the love interest was only ever looking out for the MC was so heart tugging. And the side romance? My heart fluttered at the soft moments of romance.
If there is a second part to this story, I cannot wait. I am in love with the world of the Heartsooth, Nihka and all the other characters. This was such a well written debut novel that I know everyone will love.
Shelved as 'dnf'
February 28, 2024DNF @ 30%.
Unfortunately I couldn't get into this one. I feel like a lot of it was the writing. It didn't hook me even with action at the beginning of the book. It kind of lost it's steam and started to slow. I also never got invested with the MC even though she had an interesting magic. The setting is very much a sci-fi/fantasy feel and sometimes sci-fi is hard for me to enjoy.
Unfortunately I couldn't get into this one. I feel like a lot of it was the writing. It didn't hook me even with action at the beginning of the book. It kind of lost it's steam and started to slow. I also never got invested with the MC even though she had an interesting magic. The setting is very much a sci-fi/fantasy feel and sometimes sci-fi is hard for me to enjoy.
June 3, 2022
MY FRIEND WROTE THIS BOOK!!!!!!!!
Want to read
March 8, 2024Content Warning: death of animals, violence, death of parents, medical horror
I went into this book with no expectations and once I started reading, I could not stop. Nhika posses a gift to heal people, but with that same gift she could hurt and kill them as well. She is what is knowm as a bloodcarver and it’s generally a bad thing to be. But in her upbringing she was called a heartsooth, and someone who took pride in her abilities. Nhika finds herself alone now, and bought to help a family who is grieving the lost of their father who they think was murdered. They need Nhika’s help to confirm this though and she agrees, only to find herself in a dire situation.
I like Nhika even though she doesn’t seem like someone anyone can easily connect to. She’s not warm or kind, she’s had to survive on her own for years – she’s been alone. Nhika lost her whole family and she’s trying to stay alive in a heartless world who looks down upon bloodcarvers. I like that she isn’t polished and I especially love that her heart always wants to do the right thing, even when people don’t seem to deserve her help. I connected with her through her love of the family she has lost. I love her memories about her mother and her grandmother teaching her the craft of heartsoothing. It reminded me of my own grandmother and so my heart ached for Nhika even if she didn’t have time to dwell on her feelings about grief.
There is also a found family trope in this story although at times I felt not so happy about it because Nhika was on the outside looking in and at one point they didn’t trust her.
The world building is interesting because it mentions Theumas being a technocracy and yet they used rotary phones. I did read that this was Vienamese-inspired and the politics going on in the story shows that. The magic system is great because it blended science and magic! I love all the medical stuff and anatomy and everything about the healing craft that Nhika learned through her grandmother. Also this story is part murder mystery but I felt like it never really slowed down, which I appreciate it, since mysteries always move too slow for me. The story moves quickly and I liked the actions scenes we do get, even if the last one is a bit gory!
There is even an enemies to lovers romance happening with Nhika and Ven, a doctor’s assistant. For the most part of the book Nhika is trying to figure him out and what his motives are. But when more information in reveal it’s a big twist in the story and makes them see one another with different eyes. I didn’t mind the romance, for me I think it works – may seem to fast for some people but I totally get how Nhika was so lonely and finally she finds someone who she doesn’t have to hide from. I love them together and it made me tear up at the end because everything happening was unexpected and I just wanted the best for Nhika who really deserved some happiness in her life after everything has been taken away from her.
I didn’t even realize it’s a duology but I can’t wait to see what happens in book two!
My Thoughts:
There was so much to love about this book – the world-building, magic system with magic/science/healing, the romance, the murder mystery and a good plot twist. The ending was unexpected, especially with how intense it was and it left me heartbroken. I can’t wait for book two!
I went into this book with no expectations and once I started reading, I could not stop. Nhika posses a gift to heal people, but with that same gift she could hurt and kill them as well. She is what is knowm as a bloodcarver and it’s generally a bad thing to be. But in her upbringing she was called a heartsooth, and someone who took pride in her abilities. Nhika finds herself alone now, and bought to help a family who is grieving the lost of their father who they think was murdered. They need Nhika’s help to confirm this though and she agrees, only to find herself in a dire situation.
I like Nhika even though she doesn’t seem like someone anyone can easily connect to. She’s not warm or kind, she’s had to survive on her own for years – she’s been alone. Nhika lost her whole family and she’s trying to stay alive in a heartless world who looks down upon bloodcarvers. I like that she isn’t polished and I especially love that her heart always wants to do the right thing, even when people don’t seem to deserve her help. I connected with her through her love of the family she has lost. I love her memories about her mother and her grandmother teaching her the craft of heartsoothing. It reminded me of my own grandmother and so my heart ached for Nhika even if she didn’t have time to dwell on her feelings about grief.
There is also a found family trope in this story although at times I felt not so happy about it because Nhika was on the outside looking in and at one point they didn’t trust her.
The world building is interesting because it mentions Theumas being a technocracy and yet they used rotary phones. I did read that this was Vienamese-inspired and the politics going on in the story shows that. The magic system is great because it blended science and magic! I love all the medical stuff and anatomy and everything about the healing craft that Nhika learned through her grandmother. Also this story is part murder mystery but I felt like it never really slowed down, which I appreciate it, since mysteries always move too slow for me. The story moves quickly and I liked the actions scenes we do get, even if the last one is a bit gory!
There is even an enemies to lovers romance happening with Nhika and Ven, a doctor’s assistant. For the most part of the book Nhika is trying to figure him out and what his motives are. But when more information in reveal it’s a big twist in the story and makes them see one another with different eyes. I didn’t mind the romance, for me I think it works – may seem to fast for some people but I totally get how Nhika was so lonely and finally she finds someone who she doesn’t have to hide from. I love them together and it made me tear up at the end because everything happening was unexpected and I just wanted the best for Nhika who really deserved some happiness in her life after everything has been taken away from her.
I didn’t even realize it’s a duology but I can’t wait to see what happens in book two!
My Thoughts:
There was so much to love about this book – the world-building, magic system with magic/science/healing, the romance, the murder mystery and a good plot twist. The ending was unexpected, especially with how intense it was and it left me heartbroken. I can’t wait for book two!
March 19, 2024
Dani's Rating: 4.5⭐️
Spice Details: Kisses
SWIPE FOR SUMMARY!
Summary: Nhika is a bloodcarver, which means she can alter human biology with just a touch, and she is seen as a monster in the city of Theumas. Nhika gets caught in one of her medical appointments and ultimately sold to a rich family desperately hoping to find their father's killer. As she investigates with the family, Nhika meets physician's aide, Ven Kochin, who is both alluring and infuriating. As Nhika unravels more clues, Kohin, who always seems to be trying to get Nhika to leave Theumas, isn't who he claims to be. Nhika is met with a choice to decide where her heart and trust will be put.
Dani’s Thoughts: I was absolutely blown away by this novel!! It was a dark YA Fantasy that reminded me a lot of The Scarlet Alchemist(which I also loved), when it alluded to necromancy and the other practices that Nhika would perform. It was interesting learning about this new world that was blending technology with traditional forms of healing, which Nhika had learned from her grandmother. I loved Nhika's fierceness and determination at the beginning of the book, which sometimes was seen as being cruel. However, as Nhika was accepted by the family who bought her as well as a growing friendship with Kochin, she learned that there could be other ways to survive that didn't end with tearing more of her kindness away. The twists and turns that this story took were very unexpected at times, and the ending... well you'll just have to see for yourself.
I was able to listen to the audio of this book by Macmillan Audio. VyVy Nguyen did a fantastic job with this story and it really brought it all to life for me. I did not want to stop listening and finished this one pretty quickly.
Read if you like:
💜Enemies to Lovers
🌟YA Fantasy
🔎Mysteries
🧪Science and Magic
💜Found Family
Spice Details: Kisses
SWIPE FOR SUMMARY!
Summary: Nhika is a bloodcarver, which means she can alter human biology with just a touch, and she is seen as a monster in the city of Theumas. Nhika gets caught in one of her medical appointments and ultimately sold to a rich family desperately hoping to find their father's killer. As she investigates with the family, Nhika meets physician's aide, Ven Kochin, who is both alluring and infuriating. As Nhika unravels more clues, Kohin, who always seems to be trying to get Nhika to leave Theumas, isn't who he claims to be. Nhika is met with a choice to decide where her heart and trust will be put.
Dani’s Thoughts: I was absolutely blown away by this novel!! It was a dark YA Fantasy that reminded me a lot of The Scarlet Alchemist(which I also loved), when it alluded to necromancy and the other practices that Nhika would perform. It was interesting learning about this new world that was blending technology with traditional forms of healing, which Nhika had learned from her grandmother. I loved Nhika's fierceness and determination at the beginning of the book, which sometimes was seen as being cruel. However, as Nhika was accepted by the family who bought her as well as a growing friendship with Kochin, she learned that there could be other ways to survive that didn't end with tearing more of her kindness away. The twists and turns that this story took were very unexpected at times, and the ending... well you'll just have to see for yourself.
I was able to listen to the audio of this book by Macmillan Audio. VyVy Nguyen did a fantastic job with this story and it really brought it all to life for me. I did not want to stop listening and finished this one pretty quickly.
Read if you like:
💜Enemies to Lovers
🌟YA Fantasy
🔎Mysteries
🧪Science and Magic
💜Found Family
March 29, 2024
Thank you, Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Roaring Brook Press and NetGalley, for the chance to read this book in exchange of an honest review.
Set in an industrial city called Theumas, Nhika is a bloodcarver, someone able to alter human biology just with a touch. Considered a monster, Nhika tries to survive conning patients with tinctures and lies, until, in the criminal underbelly where people and things are traded, she's captured. When a rich family buys her in order to discover what happened when their father died, Nhika is thrust into a world of riches and conspiracies. As she's more and more involved into the investigation, she starts to suspect a doctor's aide, Ven Kochin, an intriguing and contradictory person, who keeps trying to kick her out of their gilded world, but seems to be drawn to her at the same time. When Nhika discovers the truth, she will have to fight to protect herself and her loved ones.
The last bloodcarver is exactly what I was looking for in a book. Not only there's a medical magic system I absolutely loved, because it's the first time I've read something like that and it's highly original, but the whole worldbuilding and characterization is amazing.
Nhika is a brilliant MC and she's stubborn and fierce and lonely, struggling with her losses and the author does an amazing job underlining the losses a conquered country can suffer, how Nhika lost not only her family to time and illnesses, but also her inheritance, how violence and war can erase a country's past and pride.
Nhika's losses, her family, her magic system's lessons and her country, makes her feel unwanted, alone and lonely in a place where technology and science don't want to recognize magic and see people like her like monsters, dangerous and to use and discard and they seem fit.
In this kind of world, Nhika is only try to survive and belong and when she's involved in this investigation, her whole world is turned upside down, pushing her to know more people, to feel like she can belong in a little, fiercely protective, found family. And maybe finding someone she can trust and love.
The last bloodcarver has everything you could hope for in a book. Murder investigation, magic system inspired by medicine, fierce and sarcastic, very sassy MC, found family, found love and so much more it will leave you breathless and eager to read the next book!
Set in an industrial city called Theumas, Nhika is a bloodcarver, someone able to alter human biology just with a touch. Considered a monster, Nhika tries to survive conning patients with tinctures and lies, until, in the criminal underbelly where people and things are traded, she's captured. When a rich family buys her in order to discover what happened when their father died, Nhika is thrust into a world of riches and conspiracies. As she's more and more involved into the investigation, she starts to suspect a doctor's aide, Ven Kochin, an intriguing and contradictory person, who keeps trying to kick her out of their gilded world, but seems to be drawn to her at the same time. When Nhika discovers the truth, she will have to fight to protect herself and her loved ones.
The last bloodcarver is exactly what I was looking for in a book. Not only there's a medical magic system I absolutely loved, because it's the first time I've read something like that and it's highly original, but the whole worldbuilding and characterization is amazing.
Nhika is a brilliant MC and she's stubborn and fierce and lonely, struggling with her losses and the author does an amazing job underlining the losses a conquered country can suffer, how Nhika lost not only her family to time and illnesses, but also her inheritance, how violence and war can erase a country's past and pride.
Nhika's losses, her family, her magic system's lessons and her country, makes her feel unwanted, alone and lonely in a place where technology and science don't want to recognize magic and see people like her like monsters, dangerous and to use and discard and they seem fit.
In this kind of world, Nhika is only try to survive and belong and when she's involved in this investigation, her whole world is turned upside down, pushing her to know more people, to feel like she can belong in a little, fiercely protective, found family. And maybe finding someone she can trust and love.
The last bloodcarver has everything you could hope for in a book. Murder investigation, magic system inspired by medicine, fierce and sarcastic, very sassy MC, found family, found love and so much more it will leave you breathless and eager to read the next book!
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