A review by kristynpittman
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

adventurous dark tense
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

5.0

Iron Widow had so many call backs to the stories we all love. It sprinkles in elements from The Hunger Games, Handmaids Tale, & even a dash of Power Rangers (IYKYK). But what really sets this apart is that Zetain is not some poor little girl with the hopes of the nation thrust upon her. She's not a Mockingjay that has to be manipulated into action. She's the damn Iron Widow. She doesn't give a FUCK about what her family wants, or even the boys that love her. She wants to show up at the capital and fucking rage against all the women-hating men in power until they stop. murdering. girls. 

As far as representation goes Zhao excels on two fronts. She was able to blend so many beautiful Chinese elements into this brand new sci-fi world. Also, I don't want to spoil anything but this is how you do a love triangle. A triangle is the strongest shape after all...
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