A review by dannilmp
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao

adventurous emotional funny inspiring fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

From following Zhao on TikTok to seeing updates about Iron Widow I felt it was long overdue by the time I picked up this book. Honestly it gave me the strong female character with the twist that she was not ready to give over her power and will show no mercy to those who have wronged her. 

I loved the route this plot took, the twists and turns I hadn't been able to guess, although on a couple I got close, that end reveal though? Defintely didn't see that one coming! The polyamory representation in this book was lovely to see, but I do feel it could have gone in a slightly different direction that the
thruple
that it went for. I felt for Zeitan and wanted with all of my heart for her to keep her rage and suceed and by God she did it well!

I genuinly cannot think of any bad points about this book, but if I had to state one aspect I didn't like as much as the others then
I felt the tragic aspect of Li Shimin's backstory was a little predictable, at least in the point that Zeitan would end up forgiving him and becoming his Iron Widow in marriage as well
 

A five star rating because it is one of those books I would give anything to be able to read again and I am eagerly awaiting the second book!
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