A review by spongebobbiii
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

adventurous dark hopeful inspiring mysterious sad 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

4.5

There’s so much about this book love! The way it opposes gender and relationship norms, the fight scenes, and the general concept of the world. Another review compared Iron Widow to Pacific Rim and I have to say I absolutely agree.

I really do like how this book address gender norms. Granted this society is pulling at gender norms in extremes so showcase a point, however, the way Zetian talks about her experience with gender roles and norms is spot on and applicable to today’s society. I also enjoyed the commentary about sex not being a shameful act for women.

The author identities as non-binary 🥳

There are some parts of the book that are absolutely horrific to read, but it adds to the story rather than being for shock value.

Why not a 5 star rating? 
The fighting scenes were little tough to follow and I’m not sure I totally like the direction of where the story is going after the last few chapters. Absolutely intend to keep reading though!
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