Review: A gripping fantasy that will pull the rug out from under you.

“Strike the Zither” follows Zephyr, one of the best strategists of the Xin Dynasty, as she infiltrates an enemy camp to keep her warlordess Xin Ren’s followers from being slaughtered. When she finally meets her match in Crow—an opposing strategist—Zephyr must take fate into her own hands to ensure her survival and change the tide of the war. 

Joan He’s fantastical storyline draws inspiration from the Three Kingdoms period of China, which drew me in and sparked my interest in the source material. I really love how the author’s reimagining has a predominately female cast because of the strength the characters exude and the dynamics that are at play in the novel. The reluctant found family that forms between Zephyr, Xin Ren, and Ren’s two generals showcases their starkly different personalities and how they work together in the name of honor and duty to claim the continent.

I LOVE Zephyr and Crow’s relationship arc! I found it so unique and refreshing because it isn’t your typical enemies to lovers romance. Yes they are enemy strategists that fall in love, but they prioritize their causes over their own feelings. They would rather die at the hands of each other than give in to their desires if it means winning the war. Their relationship is so toxic, but I couldn’t get enough of the tension, mutual pining, secrets, betrayals, and scheming. I was endlessly entertained as I tried to anticipate who would come out on top in their battle of wits, but nothing could have prepared me for that ending!