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A review by ketreads
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao
adventurous
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
I don't believe this book is for everyone but BOY, was it for me!
SPOILER FREE:
I first heard about Xiran Jay Zhao's work through, like most people, her youtube content. I always enjoyed hearing information from her historical fact videos and hearing she was taking inspiration from these histories to weave together a story about female rage mixed with pacific rim had my undivided attention. (If you don't already know, Pacific Rim is one of my favourite franchises)
In Zhao's world, aliens have attacked and the only weapon that works against them are Chrysalises, giant transforming robots built from the bodies of dead aliens that require both a male and female pilot to work. The story follows our main character of Zetian who, after the death of her sister takes it upon herself to sign her life away into becoming a concubine, a female pilot for a Chrysalise who often die after every battle. Zetian has no intentions of getting in the Chrysalise, as her only intention is one of revenge.
I really enjoyed this book. I can't quite put into words what single element did it for me, but I loved the mix of futuristic tech yet archaic mindsets that create the perfect setting for a story of female rage. As well as the casual yet nuanced relationship the characters have.
Let me tell you, this is the only love triangle I'll ever root for. Truly, the strongest shape.
The Chrysalises' designs were fun references to mythological creatures, some I recognised, others I didn't. The idea of transforming robots is always such a goofy but cool concept that I think Zhao managed to capture just the right amount of corny but actually really awesome to watch.
The story has many twists and turns, all of which I enjoyed with every new narrative descovery or character choice made. All of which leads up to, what would have been a rushed ending, if I didn't love the decision.
I also recognise that this ending may not have been for everyone, but it worked so well with the themes and world built upon since page 1. It also helps that this leaves us with one hell of a point to start book 2 on, which I'm 100% getting my hands on ASAP. I think, from what I've seen, a lot of people misunderstand this ending and the character choices leading up to it. I for one support the chaos that was this books ending.
I read this through my local library but I'm pretty sure I will also buy the physical once I find one.
SPOILER FREE:
I first heard about Xiran Jay Zhao's work through, like most people, her youtube content. I always enjoyed hearing information from her historical fact videos and hearing she was taking inspiration from these histories to weave together a story about female rage mixed with pacific rim had my undivided attention. (If you don't already know, Pacific Rim is one of my favourite franchises)
In Zhao's world, aliens have attacked and the only weapon that works against them are Chrysalises, giant transforming robots built from the bodies of dead aliens that require both a male and female pilot to work. The story follows our main character of Zetian who, after the death of her sister takes it upon herself to sign her life away into becoming a concubine, a female pilot for a Chrysalise who often die after every battle. Zetian has no intentions of getting in the Chrysalise, as her only intention is one of revenge.
I really enjoyed this book. I can't quite put into words what single element did it for me, but I loved the mix of futuristic tech yet archaic mindsets that create the perfect setting for a story of female rage. As well as the casual yet nuanced relationship the characters have.
Let me tell you, this is the only love triangle I'll ever root for. Truly, the strongest shape.
The Chrysalises' designs were fun references to mythological creatures, some I recognised, others I didn't. The idea of transforming robots is always such a goofy but cool concept that I think Zhao managed to capture just the right amount of corny but actually really awesome to watch.
The story has many twists and turns, all of which I enjoyed with every new narrative descovery or character choice made. All of which leads up to, what would have been a rushed ending, if I didn't love the decision.
I also recognise that this ending may not have been for everyone, but it worked so well with the themes and world built upon since page 1. It also helps that this leaves us with one hell of a point to start book 2 on, which I'm 100% getting my hands on ASAP. I think, from what I've seen, a lot of people misunderstand this ending and the character choices leading up to it. I for one support the chaos that was this books ending.
I read this through my local library but I'm pretty sure I will also buy the physical once I find one.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Misogyny, Sexism, Sexual assault, Violence, and War
Moderate: Murder, Sexual assault, and Sexual harassment