Top positive review
5.0 out of 5 starsI've never read anything like this
Reviewed in Canada on February 15, 2022
I just finished "Iron Widow" this morning and I can't stop thinking about it. It was so bold, so refreshing and horrifying all at once. I can't remember the last time I was so hooked on a novel and had to physically stop myself from reading the whole thing in one sitting. This is the kind of book where I stop and go: "Where has this been all my life??" Apart from the fictional world feeling so real and vivid, I loved how the author cleverly and fluidly addressed elements of social justice without sacrificing any of the overall story. Zetian is a fierce, flawed and unbelievably strong female protagonist; the kind I wish I had in my books when I was younger. I think my only complaint with the novel is that I think it's just a little TOO intense for YA readers, but that's just my opinion. I also didn't like how the blurb on the inside of the jacket cover reveals a major spoiler in the first half of the story. If you decide to read "Iron Widow" (and you should!) my one suggestion would be DO NOT read the inside of the jacket cover if you want to avoid all spoilers. Overall, a flipping incredible read! I sure hope a sequel is on the way!
