A review by talknerdybookblog
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

adventurous dark emotional tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Representation: Chinese coded cast of characters including main characters, Disabled Heroine with chronic pain, Bisexual supporting characters, Polyamorous main relationship 

Safety Rating: Safe

• No cheating
• No OW/OM drama
— However, Shimin is grieving the death of his lover who used to be his pilot-concubine. She was killed when he drew too much qi from her. 
— There is some angst as Shimin navigates admitting his feelings for both Zetian and Yizhi 
• Does have Zetian pushing both men away
• Does have a separation between all of them (they’re celibate from what I’ve inferred)

Possible Triggers: Yes

• Murder of Heroine’s sister
• Sexism and misogyny propagated by Heroine’s family 
• Physical abuse of Heroine — Heroine’s family bound her feet at age 5 (they broke all the bones in her feet and bound them so they “healed” the lotus shape)
• Attempted r@pe of Heroine 
• Alcoholism
• Death and involuntary manslaughter of Shimin’s previous concubine-pilot 
• Murder including committed by MCs and attempted murder of Heroine
• Torture including committed by MCs 
• Death
• Violence including committed by MCs

Ending:

Cliffhanger