Scan barcode
A review by embersbooknook
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I don’t know exactly what I was expecting when I picked up this book but HOLY SHIT🤯 It blew my mind. It was such a huge undertaking of a book in that I feel like, while we could nitpick character arcs and plot rhythm, the scope of the book was, to me at least, very focused on the undertaking of exposing the evils of empire, and of the consequences of peoples and groups of peoples too long oppressed, and the way that systems of oppression harm EVERYONE.
I really appreciate the way Xiran captures this especially in the way that men are shown to be being lied to, fooled, and used by the powers that be, too. Especially with them being ‘tributes’ once they reach a certain age. Also in the way that many of the male pilots don’t want to hurt their female co-pilots and yet do because they have bought the lies, but then also live with the guilt because they don’t realize the whole thing is totally rigged. It’s deep and feels so chillingly close to our own realities .
While there’s SO much more to say about anti-colonialism/empire, sexism, gender based violence and oppression, and propaganda, this was a fantastic beginning. I feel like the soul of the book is Zetian fighting back for all those who can’t anymore, and to make sure that those to in future generations don’t face the same abuse, violence, and oppression that she and all those before have had to.
On a lighter note MY THROUPLE BETTER MAKE IT DAMMIT!!! They’ve been through enough, I want them to rule the world as a throuple - Zetian, Yizhi, and Shimin just need to be okay at the end of this. 😭😭❤️🩹
I appreciate the stage that was set in this book, and I am simultaneously terrified and excited for book two, and to see the next level of these discussions.
I really haven’t properly captured this book because I am still processing it, and will be for some time to come. 10/10 would recommend. I will be tagging some content warnings below, although the author also provides them in the beginning of the book. Definitely read this one when you’re feeling stalwart because it’s some heavy themes but well handled and important. 🙌🏽
Okay, gonna go preorder Heavenly Tyrant now…😉
I really appreciate the way Xiran captures this
While there’s SO much more to say about anti-colonialism/empire, sexism, gender based violence and oppression, and propaganda, this was a fantastic beginning. I feel like the soul of the book is Zetian fighting back for all those who can’t anymore, and to make sure that those to in future generations don’t face the same abuse, violence, and oppression that she and all those before have had to.
On a lighter note
I appreciate the stage that was set in this book, and I am simultaneously terrified and excited for book two, and to see the next level of these discussions.
I really haven’t properly captured this book because I am still processing it, and will be for some time to come. 10/10 would recommend. I will be tagging some content warnings below, although the author also provides them in the beginning of the book. Definitely read this one when you’re feeling stalwart because it’s some heavy themes but well handled and important. 🙌🏽
Okay, gonna go preorder Heavenly Tyrant now…😉
Content Warnings
Moderate: Alcoholism, Child abuse, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Misogyny, Rape, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Suicidal thoughts, Torture, Violence, Blood, Grief, Alcohol, Sexual harassment, Colonisation, War, Injury/Injury detail, and Classism
The rape is never any on page depictions, but it is implied to have happened to a few non major characters and there is pressure on the female protagonist to allow sex from people she doesn’t want it from. Rape is also discussed as a theme throughout the book in regards to gender based violence and oppression.
I’ll be honest, it wasn’t easy to read despite not being overly graphic. I experienced intimate partner sexual coercion, manipulation, and a couple assaults and that made it feel close to home for me. If you’ve been through something more traumatic than I have, definitely read with care and don’t be afraid to take breaks and be sure to have some self care in place❤️🩹 It is an excellent read but heavy so I felt these notes were needed.
The other violence mentioned, while not overly graphic, is still upsetting at times so again just…take good care.