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A review by sadie_hawkins
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao
challenging
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
if the writing wouldn't be so elite, this would be a 4 star read.
my problem with this book started at the first chapter. unnecessarily long, drages, terrible first introduction. i ended up skipping lines.
after the second chapter... it only got better and better. i find the dark elements, scary enough to keep you tense but not grotesque.
main character was interesting, i enjoyed being inside her mind and author succeded to gave her messages without making me feel like i was reading *inspiring pinterest quotes*.
the only weak writing was the deliverance of li shimin's backstory. but i forgive that.
slowburn was very tastefully done. characters relationships to each other felt very realistic even though this book is single pov.
my only other problem is.... the ending. in this point, problem can be me because i am not used to reading sci-fi. So the long war scene at the end... i think i ended up skipping a brunch.
the real ending was *fine* but i really don't like ambiguous endings. the ending was probably predictable but still, deliverance was good so it didn't felt forced.
i will %100 re-read, since i finished it in less than 24 hours since it was too captivating.
my problem with this book started at the first chapter. unnecessarily long, drages, terrible first introduction. i ended up skipping lines.
after the second chapter... it only got better and better. i find the dark elements, scary enough to keep you tense but not grotesque.
main character was interesting, i enjoyed being inside her mind and author succeded to gave her messages without making me feel like i was reading *inspiring pinterest quotes*.
the only weak writing was the deliverance of li shimin's backstory. but i forgive that.
slowburn was very tastefully done. characters relationships to each other felt very realistic even though this book is single pov.
my only other problem is.... the ending. in this point, problem can be me because i am not used to reading sci-fi. So the long war scene at the end... i think i ended up skipping a brunch.
the real ending was *fine* but i really don't like ambiguous endings. the ending was probably predictable but still, deliverance was good so it didn't felt forced.
i will %100 re-read, since i finished it in less than 24 hours since it was too captivating.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Torture, and Death
Moderate: Sexual assault