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Iron Widow

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( 97,097 ratings, 20,934 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao is a thrilling blend of science fiction and fantasy, set in a futuristic world inspired by Chinese history. It follows a young woman named Zetian who volunteers to become a pilot, intending to avenge her sister's death. The story explores themes of power, revenge, and breaking societal constraints as Zetian harnesses her unique abilities to challenge an oppressive system.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you're drawn to dynamic tales of rebellion and power set in a futuristic world. It combines intense action with a compelling exploration of gender roles and social injustice, all led by a fiercely determined protagonist. Fans of mecha battles and historical China-inspired settings will also find it particularly appealing.

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Iron Widow

Chinese history and mecha sci-fi combine in this dazzling YA retelling

Science fiction and East Asian myth combine in this dazzling retelling of the rise of Wu Zetian, the only female emperor in Chinese history.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Instant New York Times No.1 Bestseller

‘Absolutely epic. This is the historical-inspired, futuristic sci-fi mash-up of my wildest dreams.’ Chloe Gong

‘Think The Handmaid’s Tale meets Pacific Rim and buckle up.’ Shelley Parker-Chan

‘Like its ferocious heroine, Iron Widow is brutal, bloodthirsty and full of rage.’ Julie C. Dao

I have no faith in love. Love cannot save me. I choose vengeance.

The boys of Huaxia dream of the celebrity status that comes with piloting Chrysalises – giant transforming robots that battle the aliens beyond the Great Wall. Their female co-pilots are expected to serve as concubines and sacrifice their lives.

When 18-year-old Zetian offers herself up as a concubine-pilot, her plan is to assassinate the ace male pilot responsible for her sister’s death. But upon miraculously emerging from the cockpit unscathed after her first battle, she is declared an Iron Widow – the most feared pilot of all.

Now that Zetian has had a taste of power, she sets her sights on bigger things. The time has come to stop more girls from being sacrificed.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao is celebrated for its originality and thrilling narrative. The protagonist, Zetian, is praised as a fierce and inspiring character driving the story's intense and heart-wrenching events. The novel is described as epic and cinematic, leaving a strong impression on readers.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780861542116

Publisher: Oneworld Publications

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 08 September 2022

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Rock the Boat

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 29.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 0g

Pages: 416

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About the Author

Xiran Jay Zhao (they/ them) is a first-generation immigrant to Canada from small-town China (which, for China, means a town of 4 million people). A recent graduate from Vancouver’s Simon Fraser University, they wrote sci-fi and fantasy books while they probably should’ve been studying more biochemical pathways. You can find them on Twitter @XiranJayZhao for daily shitposts, Instagram as xiranjayzhao for cosplays and very extra outfits and YouTube as Xiran Jay Zhao for videos about Chinese history and culture. Iron Widow is their first novel.

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