Join us for an exciting readalong as we dive into The Novice, the second book in The Black Magician Trilogy by Trudi Canavan. From February 3rd to 9th, 2025, we’ll follow Sonea’s journey as she navigates life at the Magicians’ Guild, facing prejudice, new friendships, and the growing threats of hidden enemies. Whether you’re experiencing this story for the first time or revisiting Canavan’s rich world of magic and intrigue, this is the perfect opportunity to read, discuss, and share insights with fellow fantasy lovers.
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Book Overview
The Novice picks up where The Magicians’ Guild left off, following Sonea as she enters the Magicians’ Guild as the first novice from the slums. Despite her undeniable talent, she faces harsh treatment from the privileged students who resent her presence. As she struggles to prove herself, she also discovers that the Guild harbors dark secrets, including a hidden, forbidden magic that could put her in grave danger. Meanwhile, her mentor, Lord Rothen, tries to protect her while political tensions within the Guild rise.
This installment expands the world-building, introduces more magic system intricacies, and deepens the intrigue surrounding High Lord Akkarin, whose secrets may alter the course of Sonea’s future.
Readalong Schedule: February 3rd – February 9th, 2025
To fully immerse ourselves in The Novice, we’ve crafted a week-long schedule filled with discussions, prompts, and interactive challenges.
Day 1: February 3rd
Chapters to Read: 1 – 5
- Story Prompt: Share a photo of your book copy or reading setup and introduce yourself to the readalong.
- Discussion Question:
- How do you feel about Sonea’s transition into Guild life?
- How does her background shape her experiences in these early chapters?
- Challenge: Describe the Magicians’ Guild in three words and share using #TheNoviceReadalong.
Day 2: February 4th
Chapters to Read: 6 – 10
- Story Prompt: Post a quote that stood out to you in these chapters.
- Discussion Question:
- What are your thoughts on how Sonea is treated by her fellow students?
- How does Canavan portray social class struggles in this setting?
- Challenge: Create a character aesthetic board for Sonea.
Day 3: February 5th
Chapters to Read: 11 – 15
- Story Prompt: Discuss the mentor-student relationship between Sonea and Rothen.
- Discussion Question:
- What makes Rothen an effective mentor?
- How does he support Sonea against the bullying and political intrigue of the Guild?
- Challenge: Write a letter from Sonea’s perspective to Rothen expressing her fears and gratitude.
Day 4: February 6th
Chapters to Read: 16 – 20
- Story Prompt: Share a moment from these chapters that made you feel tense or excited.
- Discussion Question:
- What do you think of High Lord Akkarin so far?
- Is he truly dangerous, or is there more to him than meets the eye?
- Challenge: Predict how Sonea’s discoveries about Akkarin will affect her future in the Guild.
Day 5: February 7th
Chapters to Read: 21 – 25
- Story Prompt: Highlight a scene that explores the theme of friendship or trust.
- Discussion Question:
- How do Sonea’s relationships evolve in these chapters?
- Do you trust the allies she’s making?
- Challenge: Match a character from The Novice with another fictional character who shares similar traits.
Day 6: February 8th
Chapters to Read: 26 – 30
- Story Prompt: Share your theories about what’s happening behind the scenes in the Magicians’ Guild.
- Discussion Question:
- What do you think about the revelations in these chapters?
- How do you think they will change Sonea’s journey?
- Challenge: Describe The Novice in five emojis and post with #TheNoviceReadalong.
Day 7: February 9th
Chapters to Read: 31 – End
- Story Prompt: Share your final thoughts on The Novice.
- Discussion Question:
- Did the book meet your expectations?
- What are your predictions for The High Lord?
- Challenge: Write a one-paragraph review summarising your thoughts and share it with the community.
Discussion Questions
After finishing the book, reflect on its themes, character development, and key events with these discussion questions:
- How has Sonea evolved from The Magicians’ Guild to The Novice? What do you think is her biggest challenge?
- How does the book explore themes of privilege and discrimination? How do these themes resonate beyond the fantasy setting?
- The High Lord remains an enigma throughout the book. What are your theories on his motivations and secrets?
- How do Sonea’s relationships with her classmates shape her experiences at the Guild? What role do friendships play in her journey?
- How does the internal politics of the Guild impact Sonea? Do you think Rothen or Lorlen handled the challenges effectively?
- How realistic is Sonea’s struggle against bullying in an elite setting? How do you think the book addresses resilience and perseverance?
- Without spoilers, did the conclusion feel satisfying? What do you think it sets up for the final book in the trilogy?
Join the Discussion!
This readalong is the perfect way to delve deeper into Trudi Canavan’s world, whether you’re continuing your journey or reading The Novice for the first time.
Be sure to tag your responses with #TheNoviceReadalong and @OrbitBooks_UK and follow @UptownOracleBooks on Instagram and @UptownOracle on TikTok for daily prompts, polls, and discussions!
What are you most excited to discuss during this readalong? Let’s dive into the world of magic, power, and secrets together!
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