A review by afloodofbooks
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

adventurous inspiring reflective tense 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? It's complicated

5.0

Zetian lives in a world where massive transforming robots called Chrysalises, are powered by pairs of boys and girls - but the girls often die from the mental strain. After the death of her sister, Zetian offers herself as a concubine-pilot in order to avenge her sister's death. Only Zetian's vengeance goes unexpectedly when she kills the pilot through their psychic link and emerges unscathed. Her status as an Iron Widow thrusts Zetian into a completely different understanding of the Chrysalises and how they work as she seeks to find a more even footing between boy and girl pilots, while preventing the deaths of other concubine-pilots. Through her journey, Zetian gets a taste of power that she won't give up until she's upended the misogynistic system she's been born and thrust into. 

Zetian's rage was so palpable throughout Iron Widow and it was SO cathartic. I honestly loved being angry with her. Iron Widow twisted and turned and the political and social intrigue gave a whole additional layer to the intrigue of the story. I really loved Zetian's awareness and her desire to save herself and other girls from being sacrificed. Looking forward to where the story goes from the surprise of the ending. 
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