09 December 2022

She Who Became the Sun (Radiant Emperor #1)

She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan is the first book in a retelling of Chinese history beginning in 1345.

Being a daughter in 1300s China is not easy. Having a brother who is an 8th -born son also means you have to do everything for you brother and father. 

When your father takes your brother to the fortune teller, you come along. The seer says your brother, Zhu Chongba, is destined to greatness. Since you are there, too, your fortune is told - it shows nothing. 

In a time of poverty for all but the upper class, your brother has been promised to the monastery. So, when your brother and father die and you have not food, you disguise yourself as your brother and present yourself to the monastery as him. You feel that is you do as your brother would, and keep the eye of heaven off of yourself, you can take over his destiny.

Parker-Chan has written the beginning of a brilliant series - historical fiction with a queer twist. I absolutely loved this book! If you are a fan of history, fantasy or badass female characters, read this book! (Book 2 will be out in August!)

Parker-Chan, Shelley. (2021). She Who Became the Sun. New York: Tor. 

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