Reviews

Fireheart Tiger by Aliette de Bodard

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k_lenn's review against another edition

2.0

I think Fireheart Tiger would’ve benefitted from being a full-length novel, where the plot could have some room to stretch out. As it stands, this novella felt cramped and underdeveloped, with weak characters that are hard to connect to and insta-love relationships without a single hint of chemistry.

yuzuuka's review against another edition

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3.0

I liked it, but there was a lot going on and I felt like I needed more time to get to know and care about the characters. Definitely worth a read though! (Maybe I’ll like it better on a reread)

soupdumpling's review against another edition

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3.5

I am trying to get into high sci-fi/fantasy so I started with this very short novella. I've been meaning to read books from this author for a while since they mostly feature queer/trans AAPI characters. This was a quick read and I think I liked that otherwise I wouldn't have been able to finish it! I read it in two sittings and would recommend it for people not looking for a long-winded plot.

hoaxila's review against another edition

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5.0

did not see the plot twist coming tbh, i loved it read it in two hours like SO GOOD

simmonsj's review against another edition

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fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.75

With novellas, authors must focus on only a few key concepts. Here, the ideas of colonialism, romance (f/f)/abusive relationships, and a smattering of court politics prevail over anything else. The world was fuzzy and the characters felt flat. The main character was pretty naive - making rash, lust-driven choices; desperate for Mom's approval but believes her Mom is bad for their country. Eldris felt more fleshed out with at least some different facets to her. Giang just confused me a bit.

The politics felt forced but they at least gave some plot to the story. The various random mentions of other countries was an attempt at world building but didn't quite do the deed.

The relationships were the real focus. There is a realistic show of an abusive relationship and a budding relationship of confusion and "how exactly could they be a couple?" feels. The fantasy elements are there so I guess this could be more a romantasy novella more than just a fantasy or just a romance. Overall it was ok, but it really didn't blow me away.

Content Warnings