Reviews

Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

luetya's review against another edition

4.0

Interesting plot. I don't generally like mecha but this had me engaged. However, I really didn't like Zetian. She was constantly doing things that were stupid or unlikeable. The first time I noticed this and the one that stuck with me the most was when she killed Yang and then comes out and stomps on his head on camera and says "Welcome to your nightmare." I'm cool with killing a killer, but stomping on him and trying a line that, quite frankly, didn't even make sense, didn't make her look cool or bad ass, it made her look stupid. A smart person would have manipulated the system, not blatantly given it the middle finger. The other thing I didn't like about the book was the lack of romance. Which might sound odd for a book that is getting a lot of buzz for having a throuple. But every intimate scene always pans away after a few kisses. I don't need the detail of an erotica. But for a book that is focusing so much on sexuality, rape culture, subjugation, purity, etc. I feel that you need to make it clear when the character that has had issues with sex finally decides to take that plunge with someone. She has repeatedly had conversations about whether she is a virgin and about the need to consummate the pilot partnership. It's huge character and relationship development integral to the story line, it's not just superfluous and I shouldn't be guessing about whether they just kissed and went to sleep or if they did more.

bookishserpent's review against another edition

5.0

Holy smokes! That ending!!

nathood08's review against another edition

adventurous dark tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? N/A
• Loveable characters? N/A
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

marenmoose's review against another edition

5.0

Ok- fantastic ideas. I *loved* this book! Mechas, futuristic, Chinese setting- so cool!!

samantha_reads_more's review against another edition

4.0

This book was excellent. I'm thankful that I listened to it though bc I definitely would not have said the names correctly otherwise. Languages are so interesting in that way.

I loved all of the characters and their developments throughout. I laughed outloud several times because it was a mess in the best kind of way... The ending was perfection, and I am so excited to read the next installment of this series.

The only complaints I have are moments of the pacing. It stumbled, not horrible, but I had to go back and reread/listen to make sure I got what happened. Otherwise, I highly recommend.

lunaj98's review against another edition

3.0

3.5/5 A great fantasy story with an epicly strong female lead who knows what she believes in and fights for it. The disability of our FL's didn't stop her from taking what she wanted. The way the relationship dynamic was portrayed was great, it wasn't forced and was well written. The world building kinda was difficult for me but that is probably due to my own understanding and not the author's writing.

YOU LOSE ONE STAR FOR THE ENDING

Was a lovely read.

mushiemoon's review against another edition

5.0

The themes of brutal injustices made this a difficult read for me, but in an absolutely necessary way. It didn't shy away or sugar coat, there's no pretty bow tying it up. It is the rage against all that is wrong and harmful in the world. It is the pain and the loss and the hollow resounding why met with consuming burning hatred. Outside of the mecha war machines, it felt all too real. Props to Xiran Jay Zhao, I can't wait to read her next book.

maddy_pierson's review against another edition

4.0

I keep going back and forth between 3 and 4 stars so this one’s a 3.5

lucymcgoosey's review

adventurous emotional medium-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? It's complicated

4.25

readingrainbow666's review against another edition

5.0

Freaking incredible! I loved this book so much. The queer and feminist themes were fierce, and the addition of polyamory was a beautiful surprise. I can't wait for the sequel!