⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 4 stars

The Girl King is a story about two sisters who become rivals in a war to claim the throne and become emperor.

The world-building was a little bit lacking in some ways. It is Asian-inspired, but not in a way that the culture really shines through and was added into the storyline. I also wasn’t a really big fan of how the slipskin/Kith were portrayed, as it bordered on being a bit racist. I would’ve loved if that part had been given a bit more attention and was treated more with the gravity it deserves. The same with the use of “pink people” for people who were white, felt derogatory. At the same time, there isn’t any explanation as to why people are being called out for using that word as it is apparently offensive.

I liked how there wasn’t one female heroine but two, and a pair of sisters as well. Both are very different from each other and it really shines through the pages. Lu is fierce, bold, daring and has a tomboy feel. She has been training her whole life to take the throne and title of emperor. Because of this, she is a bit naïve and selfish at times Min is the more calm, feminine and passive sister. She is portrayed as weak and cowardly.

The thing I loved most about this story, which isn’t that different from many other YA fantasy books out there, is how the characters change over the course of the book. Lu isn’t rewarded for her impulsive behaviour, but learns how her actions impact others and how she shouldn’t always do what she wants to. It’s a very realistic way in which this was portrayed. Min on the other hand learns to not be as passive and learns to speak up and become more assertive. It was really satisfying to see these changes.

Overall, it is an interesting book that deals with many topics. It pushes edges and is daring and takes risks which made me like it and exciting to read the next book.