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A review by jb4nay
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao
adventurous
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I think Zetian was an awesome protagonist. Her justified rage at these systems limiting her and women in their world were so captivating to sit with throughout the story. I also really liked the development with Shimin and Yizhi throughout the book. The qi system was really neat. As someone with messy family dynamics, I really appreciated seeing a character actively not choose them after they treated her terribly over and over again .
It was also really nice to get a vengeful lead and actually see them get the revenge, instead of having some change of heart because anger is an unreasonable emotion (which I disagree with).
The ending left me wanting to spend more time in this world. Can't wait to see what happens next!
It was also really nice to get a vengeful lead and actually see them get the revenge, instead of having some change of heart because anger is an unreasonable emotion (which I disagree with).
The ending left me wanting to spend more time in this world. Can't wait to see what happens next!
Graphic: Alcoholism, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, and Physical abuse
Moderate: Violence
Minor: Sexual violence