Dana's Reviews > The Last Bloodcarver

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.