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A review by 30something_reads
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Overall rating 4.5
This book was described as Pacific Rim meets the Handmaid's Tale in a blend of Chinese history meets mecha science fiction. Absolutely apt comparisons! This is a world in which a women's value is solely defined by their willingness to sacrifice themselves to the war efforts by becoming concubine-pilots. Knowing it is highly unlikely they will survive, their only honor is derived from sacrificing their bodies and minds to their male pilot counterparts in order to defeat the mecha-alien invaders, the Hundun.
Other comparisons I found myself making: Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Gundam. and Blade Runner. (just other imagery and worlds that sprang to mind as I was diving into this world.)
The way the author writes reminds me of an artist. They use such lush imagery and description in detailing out this world that I can't help but think of them physically painting this picture. I was both mesmerized and horrified by some of the descriptions. (I had visceral reactions to the descriptions of the foot-binding ritual and the first time Zetian was forcefully encased in the armor during her first battle).
Revenge
Anguish
Rage
Purpose
Guilt
Sacrifice
I felt it all!!
The main characters were phenomenal! Zetian, Yizhi, and Shimin. Zetian's rage and unwavering determination to question the status quo. Yizhi's devotion and willingness to do whatever it takes to ensure Zetian and Shimin stay safe. Shimin's honorable heart and desire to right the wrongs of his past. - I loved the relationships- I loved the balance that the three of them brought to each other. "The triangle is the strongest shape."
I truly enjoyed this book!! The only thing that really stopped me from giving it a full 5 stars was the chaotic pacing of the story (at times). There were many times it felt so inconsistent- moments that would be really fleshed out and well developed only to then jump immediately into major moments with no real mention of how they got to that point.
But I. Cannot. Wait. For the continuation of this story. The ending left me breathless- I need to know what happens next!
This book was described as Pacific Rim meets the Handmaid's Tale in a blend of Chinese history meets mecha science fiction. Absolutely apt comparisons! This is a world in which a women's value is solely defined by their willingness to sacrifice themselves to the war efforts by becoming concubine-pilots. Knowing it is highly unlikely they will survive, their only honor is derived from sacrificing their bodies and minds to their male pilot counterparts in order to defeat the mecha-alien invaders, the Hundun.
Other comparisons I found myself making: Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Gundam. and Blade Runner. (just other imagery and worlds that sprang to mind as I was diving into this world.)
The way the author writes reminds me of an artist. They use such lush imagery and description in detailing out this world that I can't help but think of them physically painting this picture. I was both mesmerized and horrified by some of the descriptions. (I had visceral reactions to the descriptions of the foot-binding ritual and the first time Zetian was forcefully encased in the armor during her first battle).
Revenge
Anguish
Rage
Purpose
Guilt
Sacrifice
I felt it all!!
The main characters were phenomenal! Zetian, Yizhi, and Shimin. Zetian's rage and unwavering determination to question the status quo. Yizhi's devotion and willingness to do whatever it takes to ensure Zetian and Shimin stay safe. Shimin's honorable heart and desire to right the wrongs of his past. - I loved the relationships- I loved the balance that the three of them brought to each other. "The triangle is the strongest shape."
I truly enjoyed this book!! The only thing that really stopped me from giving it a full 5 stars was the chaotic pacing of the story (at times). There were many times it felt so inconsistent- moments that would be really fleshed out and well developed only to then jump immediately into major moments with no real mention of how they got to that point.
But I. Cannot. Wait. For the continuation of this story. The ending left me breathless- I need to know what happens next!