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A review by dhiyanah
Cold Steel by Joyce Ch'ng
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
'Cold Steel' is the finale to Joyce Ch'ng's swords and sapphic YA duology. This book picks up the crucial questions that 'Fire Heart' concluded with -- will the secret of Wehia's sword cause her to lose her place within the t'Tolani holding? And what's going on with the marginalization of the border people in the lands of Metakse?
The sequel does not disappoint. Fire-hearted Wehia must find a way to navigate the politics between hierarchy and communal oaths, between the status quo and the secrets it hides -- ultimately between her impulsive nature and what she wants to accomplish. While doing so, she weighs her intentions against the truth that has been kept from her, eventually learning to lean on the support of Geri and their swordswomen community for the sake of justice.
The scenes between Wehia and Geri are adorable, wholesome, and a joy to read!
'Cold Steel' is more action-packed than 'Fire Heart' and it was exciting to see the worldbuilding deepen in this one. The warmth from the characters' growing relationships with each other is felt throughout the duology.
As a whole, this is a beautifully crafted story of willpower, courage, and believing in one's chosen path. These books will resonate with anyone who has steeped their lives in a committed pursuit of integrity and belonging, with much wisdom for young readers to reflect on, and affirmations that could be supportive for adult readers.
The sequel does not disappoint. Fire-hearted Wehia must find a way to navigate the politics between hierarchy and communal oaths, between the status quo and the secrets it hides -- ultimately between her impulsive nature and what she wants to accomplish. While doing so, she weighs her intentions against the truth that has been kept from her, eventually learning to lean on the support of Geri and their swordswomen community for the sake of justice.
The scenes between Wehia and Geri are adorable, wholesome, and a joy to read!
'Cold Steel' is more action-packed than 'Fire Heart' and it was exciting to see the worldbuilding deepen in this one. The warmth from the characters' growing relationships with each other is felt throughout the duology.
As a whole, this is a beautifully crafted story of willpower, courage, and believing in one's chosen path. These books will resonate with anyone who has steeped their lives in a committed pursuit of integrity and belonging, with much wisdom for young readers to reflect on, and affirmations that could be supportive for adult readers.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Violence, Xenophobia, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail, Classism