In a city reliant on a magical fossil fuel called calor, three rivals race to find a hidden cache of magic that could change the city's fate, intertwining their paths and past traumas in a searing climate fantasy exploring power, oppression, and class struggles. The story delves into themes of colonialism, climate change, and class struggle, with sharp writing, vivid world-building, and complex character dynamics that keep readers engaged till the end.

Reader Review Summary

"And the Sky Bled" is a remarkable debut novel that immerses readers in a richly-crafted world on the brink of destruction. S. Hati's climate fantasy stands out with its masterful worldbuilding, compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and beautiful prose.

Set in the chaotic city of Tejomaya, ruled by colonizers, the book follows three protagonists - Zain, Iravan, and Anastasia - in a desperate race to find a hidden cache of the magical fossil fuel calor. Their intersecting storylines create a gripping narrative propelled by political intrigue, class struggles, and personal vendettas. Hati deftly juggles multiple perspectives, allowing each vibrant character to shine.

Zain, a street-smart thief forced to steal calor for survival, is a captivating protagonist whose tenacity and determination make her instantly likable. Iravan, an influential slumlord with revolutionary ideals, exudes complexity as a morally gray anti-hero. Anastasia, the ruthless heiress of the ruling council, brings delicious villainy that evolves into nuanced moral quandaries. The gradual reveal of their shared traumatic past from a decade ago ratchets up the tension masterfully.

Hati's lyrical and evocative prose immerses readers fully in the grim yet magical setting of Tejomaya. Her imaginative worldbuilding around calor - a lifeforce that literally bleeds from the wounded sky - is both gorgeous and terrifying. The visceral descriptions of the bloody, fleshy rains and calor's corrosive effects are hauntingly vivid. Hati's South Asian inspirations give the fantasy elements a unique cultural flavor.

Beyond thrilling adventure, "And the Sky Bled" is a profound exploration of power, oppression, colonialism, and humanity's self-destructive tendencies toward greed and exploitation of natural resources. Hati fearlessly delves into heavy themes of abuse, inequality, and systemic injustice with remarkable depth for a debut work. Her climactic ending leaves readers ruminating on the cyclical nature of violence and whether hope can ever bloom from the ashes.

With its immersive world, complex characters, gorgeous prose, and relevant messaging, "And the Sky Bled" is a knockout debut from an author with remarkable storytelling prowess. It is sure to delight fans of gritty and imaginative fantasy as well as readers seeking thought-provoking climate fiction narratives. S. Hati is undoubtedly a rising voice to watch in speculative fiction.