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Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos
Not yet published
Expected 7 Apr 26Strixhaven University welcomes you. Begin your magical studies on a faraway plane, encountering new friends, mysteries, and dangers, in this fantastical dark academia.
Eula Blue was supposed to be a mage. That was before the war came—before the fight for the Multiverse devastated Eula’s home, and with it her hopes for a magical education.
But the destruction of the war also brought something the ability to travel to other planes. And when Eula receives an invitation to study magic at a distant school called Strixhaven, she leaps to take it.
Eula’s journey brings her closer than she ever thought possible to her fellow students, including the mysterious Segante, a boy whose secrets Eula longs to share. But not everyone is thrilled by the arrival of the new class, and Eula and her new friends quickly become targets.
To make it through their first semester, they’ll have to fight for their place in this new world—or else they’ll be dead before their final exams.
Eula Blue was supposed to be a mage. That was before the war came—before the fight for the Multiverse devastated Eula’s home, and with it her hopes for a magical education.
But the destruction of the war also brought something the ability to travel to other planes. And when Eula receives an invitation to study magic at a distant school called Strixhaven, she leaps to take it.
Eula’s journey brings her closer than she ever thought possible to her fellow students, including the mysterious Segante, a boy whose secrets Eula longs to share. But not everyone is thrilled by the arrival of the new class, and Eula and her new friends quickly become targets.
To make it through their first semester, they’ll have to fight for their place in this new world—or else they’ll be dead before their final exams.
- GenresFantasy
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 7, 2026
8 people are currently reading
3866 people want to read
About the author
Seanan McGuire
521 books17.2k followersHi! I'm Seanan McGuire, author of the Toby Daye series (Rosemary and Rue, A Local Habitation, An Artificial Night, Late Eclipses), as well as a lot of other things. I'm also Mira Grant (www.miragrant.com), author of Feed and Deadline.
Born and raised in Northern California, I fear weather and am remarkably laid-back about rattlesnakes. I watch too many horror movies, read too many comic books, and share my house with two monsters in feline form, Lilly and Alice (Siamese and Maine Coon).
I do not check this inbox. Please don't send me messages through Goodreads; they won't be answered. I don't want to have to delete this account. :(
Born and raised in Northern California, I fear weather and am remarkably laid-back about rattlesnakes. I watch too many horror movies, read too many comic books, and share my house with two monsters in feline form, Lilly and Alice (Siamese and Maine Coon).
I do not check this inbox. Please don't send me messages through Goodreads; they won't be answered. I don't want to have to delete this account. :(
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
March 1, 2026
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity. I almost DNFed this book right before 50%. But I decided to keep reading and something finally happened after 50%. I think that if I had any knowledge on Magic the Gathering, I would have enjoyed this book more. But going in with no prior knowledge made the whole book so incredibly pedantic. I felt like I was being lectured and the world building was just word-vomited in nonstop. It was also so repetitive. The second half did read much faster but it didn’t make up for the flat characters and rushed ending. I was really hoping I’d like this book and it left me severely disappointed.
February 6, 2026
So, I am someone who is vaguely aware of Magic lore, and once attended a Magic convention to watch the live D+D session that the BG3 cast was doing. This got me interested in deeper Magic lore, and honestly, I think WotC chose the best possible author to bridge the two worlds. Seanan already is great at doing magical boarding school, and that's one of the best ways you can use as a worldbuild rapid download, and I now know way more about Magic lore than I did before. I would absolutely read more of this cohort if more were greenlit. Extremely here for this.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I approached Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos as someone who has been largely disconnected from the Magic: The Gathering universe for over twenty years. Apart from following the artwork of friends and colleagues associated with the franchise, I am not deeply immersed in its lore. I read the novel in preparation for a podcast discussion at the end of March, curious to see how it would function both as a story and as an entry point into this expansive multiverse.
My first impression during the opening chapters was one of familiarity through association. The academic setting inevitably evokes comparisons to magical school narratives, while the layered structure of the city and its magical institutions carries echoes of other ensemble-driven fantasy worlds. That said, the novel quickly establishes its own tone and aesthetic identity.
One of the aspects I appreciated most throughout the book was the thoughtful and understated inclusion of mental health and queer representation. Alandra’s anxiety and her small drake companion as a form of emotional support are handled with sensitivity and warmth. Similarly, the queer representation through Sergante and Eula feels organic and integrated into the story rather than performative. These elements are woven naturally into the fabric of the narrative, allowing them to exist as meaningful character traits without being reduced to defining issues. This was, to me, one of the novel’s strongest and most consistent achievements.
At the same time, my overall reading experience was mixed. The worldbuilding is undeniably extensive and detailed. The history of Arcavios, the revelation of the Omenpaths, the structure of the colleges, and the different magical disciplines are explained with great care. For readers deeply invested in the multiverse, this level of detail may well feel like rich fan service. As someone less familiar with the broader lore, however, the first third of the novel often felt closer to a handbook or guided tour of a new world than to a character-driven story.
While the five protagonists are introduced with distinct backgrounds and personal burdens, I found myself longing for deeper interiority, more sustained dialogue, and more intimate group interactions. Key moments that seemed emotionally charged such as the threatening graffiti in their dormitory or the hostility directed at the new students, are acknowledged, but rarely processed in depth through conversation among the five. Given that they are marked as particularly special and selected for Strixhaven under unusual circumstances, I expected more speculation, more shared theories, and more bonding over what sets them apart. Instead, the narrative often moves on quickly.
Similarly, certain scenes that might have offered powerful emotional immersion are resolved abruptly. For example, when Alandra is in distress and searching for water before encountering Veil, I was particularly interested in her inner experience - especially in relation to the Prismari waters and what that might mean for her emotionally and physically. Yet the narrative shifts forward in time, and that moment remains largely unexplored. These transitions contribute to an overall sense of emotional distance.
More broadly, the novel frequently prioritizes detailed environmental and procedural description over interpersonal development. In some passages, I felt as though I was following a vivid visual catalogue rather than a story propelled by character dynamics. Conversely, while the world is rendered with great specificity, the personal arcs sometimes feel comparatively underdeveloped. The characters’ traumatic pasts and the broader themes of invasion and loss are present, but they did not fully resonate with me on an emotional level. The conflicts are introduced clearly, and even the larger antagonistic forces are revealed relatively early, which lessened the sense of suspense for me. Although the finale is action-driven and vividly described, it did not come as a surprise.
I also found myself reflecting on expectations tied to the YA label. I had anticipated a stronger focus on questions of identity, belonging, and interpersonal tension explored through sustained dialogue and evolving relationships. While these themes are certainly present, they often remain on the surface. The repeated emphasis on the characters being perceived as “other” and destined to go separate ways is clear, yet the emotional exploration of that isolation sometimes feels restrained.
That said, I can absolutely see how Strixhaven might resonate differently with readers already embedded in the Magic multiverse. The depth of lore, the careful alignment with established magical systems, and the structured exploration of the colleges may offer exactly the kind of immersion long-time fans appreciate.
In the end, I leave the novel with mixed feelings: admiration for its inclusive representation and ambitious worldbuilding, but a personal sense of emotional distance from the characters and their journeys. I am genuinely curious to hear how more lore-familiar readers experience the story, as perspective may play a significant role in how one connects to this installment in the multiverse.
My first impression during the opening chapters was one of familiarity through association. The academic setting inevitably evokes comparisons to magical school narratives, while the layered structure of the city and its magical institutions carries echoes of other ensemble-driven fantasy worlds. That said, the novel quickly establishes its own tone and aesthetic identity.
One of the aspects I appreciated most throughout the book was the thoughtful and understated inclusion of mental health and queer representation. Alandra’s anxiety and her small drake companion as a form of emotional support are handled with sensitivity and warmth. Similarly, the queer representation through Sergante and Eula feels organic and integrated into the story rather than performative. These elements are woven naturally into the fabric of the narrative, allowing them to exist as meaningful character traits without being reduced to defining issues. This was, to me, one of the novel’s strongest and most consistent achievements.
At the same time, my overall reading experience was mixed. The worldbuilding is undeniably extensive and detailed. The history of Arcavios, the revelation of the Omenpaths, the structure of the colleges, and the different magical disciplines are explained with great care. For readers deeply invested in the multiverse, this level of detail may well feel like rich fan service. As someone less familiar with the broader lore, however, the first third of the novel often felt closer to a handbook or guided tour of a new world than to a character-driven story.
While the five protagonists are introduced with distinct backgrounds and personal burdens, I found myself longing for deeper interiority, more sustained dialogue, and more intimate group interactions. Key moments that seemed emotionally charged such as the threatening graffiti in their dormitory or the hostility directed at the new students, are acknowledged, but rarely processed in depth through conversation among the five. Given that they are marked as particularly special and selected for Strixhaven under unusual circumstances, I expected more speculation, more shared theories, and more bonding over what sets them apart. Instead, the narrative often moves on quickly.
Similarly, certain scenes that might have offered powerful emotional immersion are resolved abruptly. For example, when Alandra is in distress and searching for water before encountering Veil, I was particularly interested in her inner experience - especially in relation to the Prismari waters and what that might mean for her emotionally and physically. Yet the narrative shifts forward in time, and that moment remains largely unexplored. These transitions contribute to an overall sense of emotional distance.
More broadly, the novel frequently prioritizes detailed environmental and procedural description over interpersonal development. In some passages, I felt as though I was following a vivid visual catalogue rather than a story propelled by character dynamics. Conversely, while the world is rendered with great specificity, the personal arcs sometimes feel comparatively underdeveloped. The characters’ traumatic pasts and the broader themes of invasion and loss are present, but they did not fully resonate with me on an emotional level. The conflicts are introduced clearly, and even the larger antagonistic forces are revealed relatively early, which lessened the sense of suspense for me. Although the finale is action-driven and vividly described, it did not come as a surprise.
I also found myself reflecting on expectations tied to the YA label. I had anticipated a stronger focus on questions of identity, belonging, and interpersonal tension explored through sustained dialogue and evolving relationships. While these themes are certainly present, they often remain on the surface. The repeated emphasis on the characters being perceived as “other” and destined to go separate ways is clear, yet the emotional exploration of that isolation sometimes feels restrained.
That said, I can absolutely see how Strixhaven might resonate differently with readers already embedded in the Magic multiverse. The depth of lore, the careful alignment with established magical systems, and the structured exploration of the colleges may offer exactly the kind of immersion long-time fans appreciate.
In the end, I leave the novel with mixed feelings: admiration for its inclusive representation and ambitious worldbuilding, but a personal sense of emotional distance from the characters and their journeys. I am genuinely curious to hear how more lore-familiar readers experience the story, as perspective may play a significant role in how one connects to this installment in the multiverse.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved all of the elements of this novel! I am obsessed with these characters and their lives. I truly hope there will be more books to come.
This fantasy novel sets five different students from different worlds together in the same magical school. Each student has magic and has been recruited to attend Strixhaven. Eula, our main character, can make magical shields and wants a better life than the one set out by her father. Alandra is merfolk who hopes to learn more magic to help protect her homeland. Segante is from a dangerous world where every day it is about survival. Kequia is from Dominaria and can touch things to learn their history. Lastly, Jamira, is a minotaur from a planet that was destroyed by the Phyrexians. Each student has their own secrets and different reasons for attending this school. However these trans-planar students are not wanted by everyone on the campus. Threats mount against them and the five must use their wits and magic to keep themselves safe.
I loved the world building in this novel. I know absolutely nothing about Magic: the Gathering but it made no difference to me reading this book. I was quickly able to grasp what was going on and how all of the character's worlds worked. I really enjoyed learning about the different aspects of each of their worlds from the customs, creatures, fauna, and lifestyles. This novel had all the elements I look for in a book. There was mystery, action, magic, a little romance, but most importantly great characters. I have never gone wrong reading a book by Seanan McGuire and this one did not disappoint. I really hope to read more!
I highly recommend this fantasy novel especially if you love novels with great characters, magic, dark academia, wonderful world building, fantasy, or just enjoy a great story!
Thank you to Random House Worlds and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
This fantasy novel sets five different students from different worlds together in the same magical school. Each student has magic and has been recruited to attend Strixhaven. Eula, our main character, can make magical shields and wants a better life than the one set out by her father. Alandra is merfolk who hopes to learn more magic to help protect her homeland. Segante is from a dangerous world where every day it is about survival. Kequia is from Dominaria and can touch things to learn their history. Lastly, Jamira, is a minotaur from a planet that was destroyed by the Phyrexians. Each student has their own secrets and different reasons for attending this school. However these trans-planar students are not wanted by everyone on the campus. Threats mount against them and the five must use their wits and magic to keep themselves safe.
I loved the world building in this novel. I know absolutely nothing about Magic: the Gathering but it made no difference to me reading this book. I was quickly able to grasp what was going on and how all of the character's worlds worked. I really enjoyed learning about the different aspects of each of their worlds from the customs, creatures, fauna, and lifestyles. This novel had all the elements I look for in a book. There was mystery, action, magic, a little romance, but most importantly great characters. I have never gone wrong reading a book by Seanan McGuire and this one did not disappoint. I really hope to read more!
I highly recommend this fantasy novel especially if you love novels with great characters, magic, dark academia, wonderful world building, fantasy, or just enjoy a great story!
Thank you to Random House Worlds and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
February 25, 2026
I found this a delight. It accomplished what I think IP fiction's greatest goal is: making you want to play in that space. Admittedly, even more than playing the set, it made me want to pick up the Strixhaven D&D ttrpg again -- but you can bet I'll be getting the set as well.
The characters were fantastic. I'm not usually all about the Next Generation, but it wasn't a case of Children Of Previous Main Characters for all of them, and in the cases where it was a direct relative, it was someone who wasn't a recent major face character or who did have kids (or grandkids) who would logically have feelings about their inheritance.
Eula is a great protagonist, both highly flawed but very easy to empathize with. The other four leads were also all intriguing. I found myself most drawn to the poisonous, twisted courtesies of Segante, but I think they all had something going for them. Also, always fun to see Liliana!
I also appreciated how queer this book is, and how it made it very clear that trans characters exist and are welcomed in this magical university.
The writing was really fun and sharp, though it tended to repeat key points multiple times throughout (plot wise, character wise, "she knew that it wasn't against the rules but she shouldn't be doing this" over and over). The main flaws I don't think were due to the writing but simply one of the risks of IP fiction that has to fit an established storyline, ,which is that even if there's not a logical reason to not bring authority in to help in situations where they should be, but the plot relies on it, the best that can be done is give an emotional reason for it and push past it quickly.
I look forward to reading more of their adventures, and to the upcoming set, and to picking up my dumb vampire in our Strixhaven campaign someday.
Thanks to NetGalley and to Del Rey for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The characters were fantastic. I'm not usually all about the Next Generation, but it wasn't a case of Children Of Previous Main Characters for all of them, and in the cases where it was a direct relative, it was someone who wasn't a recent major face character or who did have kids (or grandkids) who would logically have feelings about their inheritance.
Eula is a great protagonist, both highly flawed but very easy to empathize with. The other four leads were also all intriguing. I found myself most drawn to the poisonous, twisted courtesies of Segante, but I think they all had something going for them. Also, always fun to see Liliana!
I also appreciated how queer this book is, and how it made it very clear that trans characters exist and are welcomed in this magical university.
The writing was really fun and sharp, though it tended to repeat key points multiple times throughout (plot wise, character wise, "she knew that it wasn't against the rules but she shouldn't be doing this" over and over). The main flaws I don't think were due to the writing but simply one of the risks of IP fiction that has to fit an established storyline, ,which is that even if there's not a logical reason to not bring authority in to help in situations where they should be, but the plot relies on it, the best that can be done is give an emotional reason for it and push past it quickly.
I look forward to reading more of their adventures, and to the upcoming set, and to picking up my dumb vampire in our Strixhaven campaign someday.
Thanks to NetGalley and to Del Rey for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I picked up Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos because I’ve grown deeply invested in Magic: the Gathering lore and was hoping for an exciting, magic-rich story. Instead, the novel delivers a dull coming-of-age narrative featuring young adults who read more like children, set in a magic school that showcases surprisingly little actual magic.
Everything about Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos is stiff and rigid. The characters speak and move around the world like cardboard cutouts of the Planes they’re from and the dialogue is stilted. There are times when there were pages of text between one character asking a question and another answering.
While Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos includes a significant amount of worldbuilding it comes at the expense of an interesting story and engaging characters. The characters are walking representations of their Planes with no other personality or traits.
The novel devotes much of its attention to exploring cultural differences among the characters and the issue with the Planeswalkers. However, given how the story ultimately concludes, Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos would have benefited from being told from a Planeswalker’s perspective, as this central conflict is emphasized throughout the novel yet results in little meaningful plot progression.
Overall, Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos prioritizes rigid worldbuilding and thematic concepts over compelling storytelling, leaving both its characters and plot feeling underdeveloped. While longtime Magic: the Gathering fans may appreciate the lore on display, readers looking for a dynamic, magic-driven narrative are likely to come away disappointed.
***I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Everything about Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos is stiff and rigid. The characters speak and move around the world like cardboard cutouts of the Planes they’re from and the dialogue is stilted. There are times when there were pages of text between one character asking a question and another answering.
While Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos includes a significant amount of worldbuilding it comes at the expense of an interesting story and engaging characters. The characters are walking representations of their Planes with no other personality or traits.
The novel devotes much of its attention to exploring cultural differences among the characters and the issue with the Planeswalkers. However, given how the story ultimately concludes, Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos would have benefited from being told from a Planeswalker’s perspective, as this central conflict is emphasized throughout the novel yet results in little meaningful plot progression.
Overall, Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos prioritizes rigid worldbuilding and thematic concepts over compelling storytelling, leaving both its characters and plot feeling underdeveloped. While longtime Magic: the Gathering fans may appreciate the lore on display, readers looking for a dynamic, magic-driven narrative are likely to come away disappointed.
***I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I chose Strixhaven: Omens of Chaos because Strixhaven: School of Mages Magic the Gathering card set was one of my recent favorites.
The book is set in a magical college with different disciplines for students to choose from. Centered around five students from five different planes within the magic multiverse, dealing with the differences between them and the troubles they have with other students in the school.
The book is a very quick and easy read and while I enjoyed the book, someone who doesn't know the Magic the Gathering lore might have some trouble understanding a lot of the references in the book.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC.
The book is set in a magical college with different disciplines for students to choose from. Centered around five students from five different planes within the magic multiverse, dealing with the differences between them and the troubles they have with other students in the school.
The book is a very quick and easy read and while I enjoyed the book, someone who doesn't know the Magic the Gathering lore might have some trouble understanding a lot of the references in the book.
Thank you to NetGalley for the eARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars rounded up. this book has a lot of magic and some interesting characters with some fun relationships but I didn’t love the story overall.
This book is ya as well as adult appropriate as it is a clean fantasy book.
This book is ya as well as adult appropriate as it is a clean fantasy book.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews