Ink Blood Sister Scribe BY Emma Torzs

“Ink Blood Sister Scribe” is a mesmerizing debut novel that has captivated readers and critics alike, earning a spot on the New York Times Notable Books of the Year list and hailed as one of the best fantasy novels of the year. The book unfolds in a world where magic is woven into the fabric of ancient and rare books, guarded by the enigmatic Kalotay family for generations.

The story centers on two estranged half-sisters, Joanna and Esther Kalotay, who have been raised to protect their family's invaluable collection of magical tomes. These books grant extraordinary powers, such as walking through walls or controlling the elements. Despite their shared legacy, the sisters are deeply divided—Esther has isolated herself in a remote Antarctic base to escape a tragic family fate, while Joanna remains in Vermont, dedicating herself to the study of these mystical volumes.

When their father dies unexpectedly, leaving behind a mysterious book Joanna has never seen, the sisters are forced to reunite. As they delve into the secrets of their family's collection, they uncover a vast, dangerous world of magic and hidden truths that span centuries and continents. Their journey reveals the profound impact of their parents' secrets and the perilous stakes of their inheritance.

In the vein of Ninth House, The Magicians, and Practical Magic, "Ink Blood Sister Scribe" combines adventure, mystery, romance, and intrigue into a richly atmospheric narrative. Emma Trzs’s debut is both an intricate puzzle and a compelling tale of familial bonds, magic, and the pursuit of power.