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A review by francxscamc
Of Jade and Dragons by Amber Chen
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.25
Of Jade and Dragons was one of my most anticipated debuts of 2024. I was immediately drawn by this insanely gorgeous cover and was intrigued by the premise. This silkpunk fantasy centers on Aihui Ying who finds father murdered and embarks on a quest to uncover the secrets which led to his tragic end. In addition to that, she must disguise herself as her brother in order to join the Engineer's Guild (which she has always wanted to do), since this is the only connection she has to her father's death.
From the first chapter, I was so intrigued of the world and the politics. I loved learning about the Engineer's Guild, Huanin, and Fei and I wish to uncover more about the setting in the next book with its unique steampunk nature with sci-fi elements and technology. Personally, I adored Ying's character. The mere strength it takes to leave town in order to avenge her father's death when her brother who becomes chieftain deters her from doing so is impressive. As well as taking into account her disguise, the dangerous trials of the guild, and the murderous assassin who always seems to catch up with her. All the scenes in the guild were my favorite parts, especially ones that involved Ye-kan. The bond that he develops with Ying was so endearing, despite his initial dislike for her. I loved that they ended up being the ones who learned each other's secrets and protected each other, similar to how a sibling would act. Given the fact that Ye-kan was raised in such an environment, it is astounding that he matured within the time he was at the guild. Ye-yang and Ying were so cute and I absolutely gobbled up the crumbs we were given. Their relationship is so complex with all the twists that occurred, which is the most I can say without spoiling too much. Ying remained strong-willed and did not stray from her beliefs despite her loss of innocence. I thought the ending was so impactful and I cannot believe that I have to wait so long for the continuation which I will definitely be picking up.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Penguin Teen for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review!
From the first chapter, I was so intrigued of the world and the politics. I loved learning about the Engineer's Guild, Huanin, and Fei and I wish to uncover more about the setting in the next book with its unique steampunk nature with sci-fi elements and technology. Personally, I adored Ying's character. The mere strength it takes to leave town in order to avenge her father's death when her brother who becomes chieftain deters her from doing so is impressive. As well as taking into account her disguise, the dangerous trials of the guild, and the murderous assassin who always seems to catch up with her. All the scenes in the guild were my favorite parts, especially ones that involved Ye-kan. The bond that he develops with Ying was so endearing, despite his initial dislike for her. I loved that they ended up being the ones who learned each other's secrets and protected each other, similar to how a sibling would act. Given the fact that Ye-kan was raised in such an environment, it is astounding that he matured within the time he was at the guild. Ye-yang and Ying were so cute and I absolutely gobbled up the crumbs we were given. Their relationship is so complex with all the twists that occurred, which is the most I can say without spoiling too much. Ying remained strong-willed and did not stray from her beliefs despite her loss of innocence. I thought the ending was so impactful and I cannot believe that I have to wait so long for the continuation which I will definitely be picking up.
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Penguin Teen for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review!