A review by arwombat
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

adventurous dark emotional fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

I didn't find Zetian super likable, not because she was a ruthless killer, but because her personality was so strong and uncompromising.  She had no sympathy for Li Shimin, even seeing how he was just as imprisoned by the system as she was, and knowing how tortured he was. There are times when it makes sense to be angry at someone and there are times when you're just being pointlessly stubborn. I liked the take on a love triangle.
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