The writing is this is so beautiful. Seriously, it moved me. I didn't expect much from this little novella, but I kept hearing about it, so I figured I'd give it a shot. Wow. I'm so glad. It was magnificent and I am now planning to read the rest of the trilogy later this year.

Nghi Vo is an incredible storyteller. The prose is wonderful and the characters are incredibly rich for a story that is less than 100 pages long. The mythos is amazing, reminiscent of an Imperial era China, and the commentary on the patriarchy is inspiring. I love the strength and cunning of Empress In-Yo and I was pleasantly surprised by the trajectory of the narrative.

Highly recommend for anyone loving fantasies with a magical/mythological feel. Short and sweet, but packs a magnificent punch.