A review by mayflower_ng
A Clash of Steel: A Treasure Island Remix, by C.B. Lee
4.0
Read this book if you like:
↝Historical fiction and retellings
↝Pirates and learning about the “Dragon Fleet”
↝Found Family
↝Sapphic slowburn romance w/ one bed trope
This book meant the world to me. Seeing Asian (Chinese and Vietnamese) sapphics that made me feel represented get their adventure made me so happy it hurts <3
Pacing and Plot:
I took off a star since I think this book definitely struggles a bit with the pacing. The first 1/3 was just build up about Xiang’s background that I found bearable but could have used a speed booster. The second 1/3 was where the found family of the crew developed. It might’ve seemed slow but I think it was like Six of Crows type of event like (sword fighting lessons) that make you fall in love with the characters and setting. The last third was INCREDIBLE. So many events that I didn’t see coming and left me thinking “just one more chapter”. The plot overall was enjoyable and loved the historical events infused into it.
Xiang and Anh:
Omg my love for these characters is infinite. Xang was the sheltered girl with wit and quick learning. Her character flaws and growth was so much fun to see. Anh on the other hand was experienced at sea but struggled to not deflect emotions (I saw some of myself in her and was very grateful for the Vietnamese representation)They were the perfect pair. Their love felt very natural and fills your heart with warmth.
Side Characters:
I think this book had a common problem of the side characters needing more development. However, I think they played a nice part in the found family and added funny moments. A special place is in my heart for Captain Hoa because she was an incredible leader and mother.
↝Historical fiction and retellings
↝Pirates and learning about the “Dragon Fleet”
↝Found Family
↝Sapphic slowburn romance w/ one bed trope
This book meant the world to me. Seeing Asian (Chinese and Vietnamese) sapphics that made me feel represented get their adventure made me so happy it hurts <3
Pacing and Plot:
I took off a star since I think this book definitely struggles a bit with the pacing. The first 1/3 was just build up about Xiang’s background that I found bearable but could have used a speed booster. The second 1/3 was where the found family of the crew developed. It might’ve seemed slow but I think it was like Six of Crows type of event like (sword fighting lessons) that make you fall in love with the characters and setting. The last third was INCREDIBLE. So many events that I didn’t see coming and left me thinking “just one more chapter”. The plot overall was enjoyable and loved the historical events infused into it.
Xiang and Anh:
Omg my love for these characters is infinite. Xang was the sheltered girl with wit and quick learning. Her character flaws and growth was so much fun to see. Anh on the other hand was experienced at sea but struggled to not deflect emotions (I saw some of myself in her and was very grateful for the Vietnamese representation)They were the perfect pair. Their love felt very natural and fills your heart with warmth.
Side Characters:
I think this book had a common problem of the side characters needing more development. However, I think they played a nice part in the found family and added funny moments. A special place is in my heart for Captain Hoa because she was an incredible leader and mother.