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mirrorstorm_'s review against another edition
adventurous
dark
- Loveable characters? No
3.5
Pros: Well written. Interesting and unique world building and magic system.
Cons: Lack of fully developed female characters. There was an attempt but it felt shallow. Not a fan of multiple female characters being called slut as an insult. Lots of unfinished plot points. It is book one in a series but I prefer a book that can stand on its own.
Cons: Lack of fully developed female characters. There was an attempt but it felt shallow. Not a fan of multiple female characters being called slut as an insult. Lots of unfinished plot points. It is book one in a series but I prefer a book that can stand on its own.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Violence
Moderate: War, Gun violence, and Addiction
Minor: Adult/minor relationship, Suicide attempt, Sexual harassment, and Suicide
kathyy's review against another edition
dark
tense
fast-paced
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gore, Violence, and Death
Minor: Sexual assault and Sexual harassment
greebkit's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Character-driven, but I wasn't a fan of the portrayal of one of the main characters (Hilo) that others do so maybe I am nit-picking.
Otherwise the actions, mistakes, observations, etc of the characters seem to naturally evolve and really worked for me. The ending actually won me over after I was ready to just finish the book and move on. Without giving anything away, the ending seemed both to develop naturally without being out of place or a cliffhanger. You could read this and never read the follow ups. However, it is also not a pre-packaged "happily ever after" ending so it fits the fantasy realism of the book very well, in my opinion.
Overall, I enjoyed it and will be reading the follow-up book, but I am not in a hurry to read it.
Otherwise the actions, mistakes, observations, etc of the characters seem to naturally evolve and really worked for me. The ending actually won me over after I was ready to just finish the book and move on. Without giving anything away, the ending seemed both to develop naturally without being out of place or a cliffhanger. You could read this and never read the follow ups. However, it is also not a pre-packaged "happily ever after" ending so it fits the fantasy realism of the book very well, in my opinion.
Overall, I enjoyed it and will be reading the follow-up book, but I am not in a hurry to read it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny
Minor: Pedophilia and Sexual harassment
There is a scene early on meant to depict the close, trusting relationship between two characters that is just borderline creepy. There is a continuing theme of misogyny against women in power positions that for me contributed to the realism of the setting, but could be taxing if you are sick of that reality. There is a brief mention of the discovery of a previously trusted character using his position to harass an underage girl including the discovery of a pornography stash that has underage teenage girls. I actually thought the reactions to this discovery in the book were well done and show how dismissing this like it was nothing really affected the family involved, the life of the granddaughter and why she was ready to run as far as possible from her family. Obviously, if it is triggering, you can skip it, but considering the context and that it is kept brief, I think it is there to contribute to the story not to be a jarring instance of shock value or sexualized in any way.leanne_miron's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
tense
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? Yes
4.5
I didn’t mean to reread this in full, this quickly, right now; it wasn’t the plan; I don’t know how this happened. Just as addictive and compulsively readable as first read (and I’m a little concerned/ impressed at how closely my reading experience resembled my first read in how consumed I was, despite knowing everything that happens and without really picking up on deeper narratives, which I usually enjoy about rereads. I wasn’t shocked or surprised, yet I was somehow still as engrossed and on-edge). I really enjoyed reflecting on the distinct characterizations of the cast, but even that was mostly reinforcing what I tracked on first read. The obvious difference is the context of having definitive insight into their trajectories, having read the entire trilogy, but I think my thoughts and responses were still pretty congruent.
My main appreciation for this series as a whole, which I was able to digest more—while actually reading— upon reread, is how relevant the framing of perspective is to the narrative. The characters are so compelling (not to be mistaken with likable, heroic, or defendable), yet if this were another series, we could have easily been led by any of the other ‘antagonistic’ perspectives and feel just as compelled/ conflicted/ like their actions may be justifiable. It’s entirely plausible that I could have devoured this same plot framed as the story of an antihero—and that would have been the story of one of my most despised characters (a hatred which I can admit is probably more than a little irrational, seeing as it probably could be recontextualized without changing much about the character’s qualities. In this story, though, I legitimately had to brace myself every time we switched to that perspective). Even the aggravating development of protagonists felt motivated and human in their consistencies and inconsistencies. It’s hard to entirely love* or hate any character (*WITH ONE EXCEPTION. One beloved character). There’s a recurring motif of characters regarding each other with begrudging admiration, and I think that summarizes how I felt towards characters (cough, ****, cough) even in the midst of being appalled at certain actions. Really fascinating point for me to be so consumed by in a book that’s more plot-driven than what I typically gravitate toward. Characters are what make books for me, but I don’t need likable or lovable or even agreeable characters; I need interesting characters, and this series certainly delivers.
I will now attempt* to resist the impulse to immediately dive into Jade War (*specifically not an oath).
(((Also, the fact that I not only felt compelled to try, but actually delivered on writing out my thoughts in some semblance of organization? Unprecedented.)))
My main appreciation for this series as a whole, which I was able to digest more—while actually reading— upon reread, is how relevant the framing of perspective is to the narrative. The characters are so compelling (not to be mistaken with likable, heroic, or defendable), yet if this were another series, we could have easily been led by any of the other ‘antagonistic’ perspectives and feel just as compelled/ conflicted/ like their actions may be justifiable. It’s entirely plausible that I could have devoured this same plot framed as the story of an antihero—and that would have been the story of one of my most despised characters (a hatred which I can admit is probably more than a little irrational, seeing as it probably could be recontextualized without changing much about the character’s qualities. In this story, though, I legitimately had to brace myself every time we switched to that perspective). Even the aggravating development of protagonists felt motivated and human in their consistencies and inconsistencies. It’s hard to entirely love* or hate any character (*WITH ONE EXCEPTION. One beloved character). There’s a recurring motif of characters regarding each other with begrudging admiration, and I think that summarizes how I felt towards characters (cough, ****, cough) even in the midst of being appalled at certain actions. Really fascinating point for me to be so consumed by in a book that’s more plot-driven than what I typically gravitate toward. Characters are what make books for me, but I don’t need likable or lovable or even agreeable characters; I need interesting characters, and this series certainly delivers.
I will now attempt* to resist the impulse to immediately dive into Jade War (*specifically not an oath).
(((Also, the fact that I not only felt compelled to try, but actually delivered on writing out my thoughts in some semblance of organization? Unprecedented.)))
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Death, Drug abuse, Drug use, Addiction, Injury/Injury detail, Misogyny, Murder, and Sexual content
Moderate: Gun violence, Medical content, and Xenophobia
Minor: Sexual harassment, Dementia, and Pedophilia
mikarala's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
reflective
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Maybe I shouldn't find these characters loveable? The main POV characters are all members of the Kaul family, which is essentially a cartel that controls the most powerful resource in this fantasy world: jade. In accordance with their cultural values, the Kauls are all violent and extremely concerned with their own power and status. However, I think the narrative does an excellent job of justifying this within the universe. While the violent way of life may seem out of place with this modern fantasy setting, the world-building explains the Greenbone warrior way of viewing retribution, honour, and protection.
Basically, the Kaul family controls the No Peak clan, one of the two prominent clans in the city of Janloon, the capital of Kekon. The clans are basically cartels than manage the production and distribution of the magical resource of jade, which supplies those who can use it with superhuman abilities. Maintaining control over the clan, we see early on, is not an enviable position. The eldest Kaul sibling, Lan, is struggling after taking over from his legendary grandfather. The way the narrative presents Lan's struggles to live with dignity and honour while being constantly found wanting was incredibly compelling to me, and I felt so much empathy towards the difficulty Lan faces in the position. Matters are not helped by the fact that his younger sister, Shae, is eschewing the Greenbone way of life by refusing to wear any jade, in the process basically disrespecting their family tradition, and his younger brother and right-hand man, Hilo, is a hothead intent on escalating tensions with the only clan more powerful than the No Paek's: the Mountain clan. These conflicting agendas, alongside some suspicious changes to the status quo on the streets of Janloon, make for an incredibly tense and exciting read.
I also just think the world-building is absolutely masterful. Something I really appreciated was that Fonda Lee resists the urge to exposition-dump on every newly introduced aspect of the world, respecting the reader can understand what's going on even if some of the details aren't revealed until later on. She gives you the perfect amount to understand what's going on in each scene, without it ever hampering the action and flow of the narrative. For instance, early on someone wishes as a formality that the old Kaul Sen will live for 300 years. It's not until hundreds of pages later that you get the backstory that this saying originates with the religion of Kekon island (which, itself, is so well entangled with the resource of jade), as there is a mythological Greenbone warrior who lived for 300 years after discovering how to harness the power of jade. It's small things like this that work together to create a fantasy world that feels so vibrant and well-realized and holisitic that you can't help but be immersed in it.
Also, how refreshing to have a modern-ish Asian fantasy setting! Taking inspiration from various Asian metropolises (imo, particularly Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taipei/Taiwan), this universe is so distinctive and stylized.
And, like I said, I loved the characters, despite the fact that they aren't necessarily good guys. I already mentioned Lan, but Shae's somewhat renegade position made for a fascinating perspective on the benefits and drawbacks of jade usage. I appreciated her underlying conflicting feelings about what it means to be an independent woman in this male-dominated world. Hilo was volatile, but I fell in love anyways because of how whole-heartedly he does everything. He gives his all to those he loves, and expects the same in return. Anden, who I haven't mentioned yet, is their adoptive younger, mixed-race brother/cousin, whose imposter syndrome regarding being a member of the powerful Kaul family is so relable and honestly endearing. Overall, I just couldn't help but root for them.
Do yourself a favour and read this book.
Basically, the Kaul family controls the No Peak clan, one of the two prominent clans in the city of Janloon, the capital of Kekon. The clans are basically cartels than manage the production and distribution of the magical resource of jade, which supplies those who can use it with superhuman abilities. Maintaining control over the clan, we see early on, is not an enviable position. The eldest Kaul sibling, Lan, is struggling after taking over from his legendary grandfather. The way the narrative presents Lan's struggles to live with dignity and honour while being constantly found wanting was incredibly compelling to me, and I felt so much empathy towards the difficulty Lan faces in the position. Matters are not helped by the fact that his younger sister, Shae, is eschewing the Greenbone way of life by refusing to wear any jade, in the process basically disrespecting their family tradition, and his younger brother and right-hand man, Hilo, is a hothead intent on escalating tensions with the only clan more powerful than the No Paek's: the Mountain clan. These conflicting agendas, alongside some suspicious changes to the status quo on the streets of Janloon, make for an incredibly tense and exciting read.
I also just think the world-building is absolutely masterful. Something I really appreciated was that Fonda Lee resists the urge to exposition-dump on every newly introduced aspect of the world, respecting the reader can understand what's going on even if some of the details aren't revealed until later on. She gives you the perfect amount to understand what's going on in each scene, without it ever hampering the action and flow of the narrative. For instance, early on someone wishes as a formality that the old Kaul Sen will live for 300 years. It's not until hundreds of pages later that you get the backstory that this saying originates with the religion of Kekon island (which, itself, is so well entangled with the resource of jade), as there is a mythological Greenbone warrior who lived for 300 years after discovering how to harness the power of jade. It's small things like this that work together to create a fantasy world that feels so vibrant and well-realized and holisitic that you can't help but be immersed in it.
Also, how refreshing to have a modern-ish Asian fantasy setting! Taking inspiration from various Asian metropolises (imo, particularly Hong Kong, Singapore, and Taipei/Taiwan), this universe is so distinctive and stylized.
And, like I said, I loved the characters, despite the fact that they aren't necessarily good guys. I already mentioned Lan, but Shae's somewhat renegade position made for a fascinating perspective on the benefits and drawbacks of jade usage. I appreciated her underlying conflicting feelings about what it means to be an independent woman in this male-dominated world. Hilo was volatile, but I fell in love anyways because of how whole-heartedly he does everything. He gives his all to those he loves, and expects the same in return. Anden, who I haven't mentioned yet, is their adoptive younger, mixed-race brother/cousin, whose imposter syndrome regarding being a member of the powerful Kaul family is so relable and honestly endearing. Overall, I just couldn't help but root for them.
Do yourself a favour and read this book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gore and Violence
Moderate: Sexual harassment and Emotional abuse
leanne_miron's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
tense
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? Yes
4.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Drug abuse, Misogyny, Violence, Death, Drug use, Injury/Injury detail, Addiction, Murder, and Sexual content
Moderate: Gun violence, Medical content, and Xenophobia
Minor: Sexual harassment and Pedophilia
doodeedoda's review against another edition
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Drug use, Death, Misogyny, Murder, Sexual content, Grief, Gun violence, Panic attacks/disorders, Violence, and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Sexual assault, Kidnapping, Sexual harassment, Death of parent, Medical content, Blood, and Dementia
Minor: Addiction, Alcohol, Child abuse, Confinement, Cursing, and Infidelity
romiress's review against another edition
dark
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Did I like it? I don't know. That's a complicated question. I think, fundamentally, this book was just not for me - it never quite landed.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Violence, Sexual harassment, Drug use, Drug abuse, Grief, and Addiction
Moderate: Sexism, Dementia, Self harm, and Death of parent
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