Of course, as if there was ever any doubt, Xiran Jay Zhao comes back with an absolutely AMAZING book and the perfect sequel to Iron Widow. There is such a clear growth in their skill and ability as an author and they clearly put the work in to make sure they really understood the topics this book would be tackling.

Zetain’s growth in this book I think is the best part. Looking back on the first book, she was clearly very isolated even with Yizhi and Shimin at her side. Watching her grow a support network not just for her, but other women was just such a treat. It really felt like she came into her own in this book. All the side characters in the novel were such a treat, especially the women Zetain befriended. I also think her ever-evolving relationships with the men in her life were fascinating. Watching her relationship with Yizhi shift, knowing it will never be the same was the perfect storm of emotions. I really do think it was a close race between her relationship with Yizhi and her relationship with Zheng. I won’t give away too much, but I would love to study those two and their toxic mess under a microscope.

The world felt just as vibrant and complex as the first book, if not more. I think this is especially where all the work put into research for this book really shines. There’s clearly so much thought put into how Zetain and Zheng’s government take over would work and what the hindrances would be. I also like that not everyone immediately falls in line and the variety to beliefs and opinions on what should be done. It remains a constant struggle for power and control, so many changes so quickly lead to those previously in power trying to spread chaos and regain control by forcing those beneath back to fighting each other. It was just so clear that a lot of work had been put into considering how this all would work.

I really think this skill with the expansion of the world and the people in it suits the themes. Which is clearly the intent. It really breaks down the movement Zheng and Zetain are trying to bring to light and put in charge, and exactly how it’s been oppressed for so long. The ideas behind it are explained so well and then going from that to the series’ feminist messaging was perfect. Seeing how it takes a community, building support networks, and that you can’t rely just on yourself was PERFECT. I think this is an extremely topical and relevant book to the current age we’re in and what to expect to see in the coming years.

Overall a seriously amazing book. I haven’t been able to shut up about it to my friends since I finished it and I’ve been begging all of them to read the series with me. I don’t have the words to really convey how amazing it was.