Xiran Jay Zhao - Iron Widow 1 - Iron Widow

Audiobook Review + Xiran Jay Zhao

Iron Widow is the first part of a duology / trilogy / series (?) with the same name. It describes Wu Zetian's rise through the ranks, in a Chinese inspired scifi / fantasy setting featuring a mystical 'spirit power' (a kind of paranormal energy source) and very large mecha-like creatures called 'Chrysalis'.

Oh Canada

The (Canadian) writer openly admits she based the story on the real Wu Zetian, the only female emperor China ever knew. Throw in some social commentary on the misogynistic nature of old China and similar cultures (Google for 'Lotusfeet') , a non-binary relation between the three leads, a little betrayal and some battle scenes, and tons and tons of Chinese names (makes sense, it's a fantasy inspired version of China anyway) and you have Iron Widow.

It's well written and does highlight some of the unfair treatment of women, but it now and again feels a little 'fashionable', 'tailored'. Mechas and yin/yang spirit powers in China? Either the author is an utter nerd (and there is nothing wrong with that) or she did a very good analysis of the market and wrote exactly what sells in the west, to a specific demographic. Perhaps it's both.

Does that make it a bad book? Not at all! It's well written, the setting is interesting, and the characters work (for the most part). It's an enjoyable romp, but it lacks some raw emotion, shock surprises, spirit. It's not flat, but... I don't know. Dare I call it a 'designer drug' for Gen-Z?

For example, Zoe Hana Mikuta's Gearbreakers and Godslayers - which has many elements in common - does a much better job of grabbing the reader (and not letting go).

Hugo Awards

It was nominated for a Hugo award, but (obviously) the Chinese government (who hosted the Hugo Awards that year) didn't like it with the commentary on (old) culture and (modern day) affairs of state. Nothing new there...

The Verdict

Good enough to look for part two, but probably not good enough to become a classic. But... the sequel could change my mind, who knows?

FPPT

I'm always looking for First Person Present Tense (Young Adult) work, and this title is one of 'em. Drop me a line if you have more suggestions!

Thus far I've found these.