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4.13 AVERAGE
4.13 AVERAGE
This was such a fun, easy read! It felt like watching an action-packed film, constant momentum, without a single moment where my mind wandered.
I really enjoyed that the characters aren’t perfect, and that there wasn’t focus redemption arcs for the sake of it. They show their anger and stubbornness, but also moments of softness and the ability to learn from each other. I have zero issue with a stubborn, angry woman seeing red and going after what she wants, or what she’s decided is necessary! In fact, I welcome it!
The world-building was quick and easy to follow. I always love stories set in diverse cultures and worlds, and this was no exception. I know some readers have wanted more description or explanation, but for me, the brisk approach worked. It kept the fast pace going while still giving me enough detail to feel immersed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Left me wanting more, and I can’t wait for the next in the series!
I really enjoyed that the characters aren’t perfect, and that there wasn’t focus redemption arcs for the sake of it. They show their anger and stubbornness, but also moments of softness and the ability to learn from each other. I have zero issue with a stubborn, angry woman seeing red and going after what she wants, or what she’s decided is necessary! In fact, I welcome it!
The world-building was quick and easy to follow. I always love stories set in diverse cultures and worlds, and this was no exception. I know some readers have wanted more description or explanation, but for me, the brisk approach worked. It kept the fast pace going while still giving me enough detail to feel immersed.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — Left me wanting more, and I can’t wait for the next in the series!
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Wow, so much happened. Definitely ends on a cliffhanger; glad I have book 2.
I went in blind. This is a dystopian sci-fi with aliens and gods but influenced by historical Chinese culture. I wasn’t expecting it and it was a lot to take in for the first few chapters.
The feminist message is STRONG and I love it. Characters grow and learn and apologize and do better and listen. There are a lot of impossible choices. A lot of despicable people, but a few genuinely good ones.
I went in blind. This is a dystopian sci-fi with aliens and gods but influenced by historical Chinese culture. I wasn’t expecting it and it was a lot to take in for the first few chapters.
The feminist message is STRONG and I love it. Characters grow and learn and apologize and do better and listen. There are a lot of impossible choices. A lot of despicable people, but a few genuinely good ones.
adventurous
challenging
dark
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Holy crap this book is amazing! From page one, it hooked me and I can't wait to get the sequel from the library.
The world Zhao has created is rich and intriguing and the twists and turns of the story are well crafted and hinted at just enough. Amazing three-dimensional characters and well thought-out dynamics pepper the pages even as the author avoids the pitfalls of fantasy tropes (chosen one, unrealistic expertise).
On top of all that, it's queer with disability rep and a fierce AF FMC. This book is incredible.
100/10 would recommend.
The world Zhao has created is rich and intriguing and the twists and turns of the story are well crafted and hinted at just enough. Amazing three-dimensional characters and well thought-out dynamics pepper the pages even as the author avoids the pitfalls of fantasy tropes (chosen one, unrealistic expertise).
On top of all that, it's queer with disability rep and a fierce AF FMC. This book is incredible.
100/10 would recommend.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Misogyny, Sexism, Torture, Violence, War
Moderate: Sexual assault, Sexual violence
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Extremely fast paced, interesting plot, but the characters felt pretty one note - minimal development.
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
is this book perfect? No.
But it’s really fucking fun to read. Super excited to continue.
But it’s really fucking fun to read. Super excited to continue.
adventurous
challenging
dark
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
dark
emotional
medium-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
adventurous
dark
emotional
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated