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A review by rorikae
Jade City by Fonda Lee
challenging
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
'Jade City' by Fonda Lee kicks off an engaging urban fantasy where warring clans clash for control of the resource that imbues them with powers.
The story focuses on the Kaul family who lead one of the clans that are vying for control of the capital city in Kekon. The three Kaul siblings, Lan, Shae, and Hilo, are dealing with the complexities of life in the clan, an ailing grandfather, and the prospects of a new drug that allows anyone to wield jade.
Lee has created an engaging world full of complex characters. The pairing of a simple but really well thought out fantasy element in jade's powers to enhance abilities with the political machinations of warring families creates a world that I cannot wait to return to. By focusing on the three Kaul siblings, Lee gives the reader a peek into different parts of the clan but also different views on jade. Lan is the reluctant leader, Hilo the determined and sometimes rash Horn, and Shae is returning from time abroad and without jade. These characters are complex and though not always lovable, I found that I cared deeply for each of them.
The plotting is exceptionally paced. Lee weaves together more action heavy moments of conflict with the plotting and political decisions that are going on in the background. These pieces fit together to create a plot that is constantly moving forward but also feels easy to follow.
I cannot wait to read Jade War though I think I will wait some time so that I read it closer to the release of Jade Legacy. If you are looking for an exceptional urban fantasy series with a complex plot, you really must read Jade City.
The story focuses on the Kaul family who lead one of the clans that are vying for control of the capital city in Kekon. The three Kaul siblings, Lan, Shae, and Hilo, are dealing with the complexities of life in the clan, an ailing grandfather, and the prospects of a new drug that allows anyone to wield jade.
Lee has created an engaging world full of complex characters. The pairing of a simple but really well thought out fantasy element in jade's powers to enhance abilities with the political machinations of warring families creates a world that I cannot wait to return to. By focusing on the three Kaul siblings, Lee gives the reader a peek into different parts of the clan but also different views on jade. Lan is the reluctant leader, Hilo the determined and sometimes rash Horn, and Shae is returning from time abroad and without jade. These characters are complex and though not always lovable, I found that I cared deeply for each of them.
The plotting is exceptionally paced. Lee weaves together more action heavy moments of conflict with the plotting and political decisions that are going on in the background. These pieces fit together to create a plot that is constantly moving forward but also feels easy to follow.
I cannot wait to read Jade War though I think I will wait some time so that I read it closer to the release of Jade Legacy. If you are looking for an exceptional urban fantasy series with a complex plot, you really must read Jade City.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood, Death, Gore, Sexual content, and Violence
Moderate: Dementia, Drug use, and Emotional abuse