Kit Hawkins

A gripping read with fantastic world building and interesting, flawed characters. The main criticism I see from other reviews is that the main character is celebrated for being violent, which I think rather misses the point of the novel, as well as the real historical figure on which the heroine is based. Zetian is not a likeable young woman, but there is a damned good reason for that. The nuances of each of the three main characters are well fleshed out, even if some of the dialogue is a little unsubtle. The relationships and bonds between deeply traumatised characters feels genuine, and there are moments of touching vulnerability and growth for Zetian. This is a novel about a young woman who learns to use the patriarchy against itself, and in the process becomes something superhuman - for better and for worse. The ending felt rather rushed though, which was disappointing - but I certainly hope that there will be a sequel. Recommended for teen readers.