After several failed attempts to arrange a marriage, Ai Ling’s father travels to the palace to fix his reputation, which has been the cause of all the failures. After he doesn’t show up for a long time, Ai Ling sets out to find her father in the Palace of Fragrant Dreams, she doesn’t expect the dangerous journey she’s starting. She gets attacked by demons, ones that seem to specifically target her, and she encounters numerous life-threatening situations. Along the way, she meets Chen Yong, a young man who’s journey is also taking him the same direction. Ai Ling faces trial after trial while she attempts to find her father.

Cindy Pon is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. SILVER PHOENIX is a stunning, lush novel. Like in SERPENTINE, Pon does a perfect job at setting up a journey story. Ai Ling has to travel far in attempt to save her father. The fighting scenes between her and various demons are incredible, and you won’t want to put down the book. Likewise, Ai Ling’s internal journey is just as magnificent. Even though her parents love and care for her, she’s still limited by her society. As she travels, she discovers a freedom she never knew she had, and she blossoms in it.

The minor romance with Chen Yong is a delicious slow-burn, full of romantic tension side plot. I love their interactions, as well as the the scenes with other secondary characters. There are some seriously heartfelt moments, and these characters will stay with you for a long time.

I couldn’t be more excited to read the sequel, FURY OF THE PHOENIX, soon. This duology-start is so incredible, and I can’t wait to see where the characters go next.

Originally posted at The Forest of Words and Pages: http://www.forestofwordsandpages.com/2017/02/review-silver-phoenix-cindy-pon/