The Girl King

Starred review from October 1, 2018

Gr 9 Up-This series opener is told in alternating points of view-Princess Lu, called the Girl King, her overlooked younger sister Min, and Lu's childhood friend, Nok, now an apothecary's apprentice. Events from years earlier weigh heavily on the characters, including the disappearance of the Yunians, godlike beings, and the near extermination of Nok's brethren, nicknamed slipskins for their ability to transform into animals. Headstrong Lu knows she is destined to be the first Empress of the somewhat-new Hu dynasty and looks forward to her father naming her as his successor. Instead, he announces her rival cousin Set will become Emperor and she will be his wife. Min begins to struggle with her feelings as she is ignored by her father, and praised by her mother. She fluctuates between wanting to be unnoticed and to be as strong a presence as Lu. This is a masterful blend of Asian history with a touch of fantasy. The characters are compelled to confront how they think of themselves with how they actually are, and must make decisions that could affect the fate of their country. Yu crafts a rich tale filled with detailed world-building that draws readers in. This mainly female-led ambitious adventure will appeal to fans of Graceling by Kristin Cashore and The Star-Touched Queen by Roshani Chokshi. VERDICT An epic tale of fate, desire, family and love, highly recommended for purchase.-Rebecca Greer, Hillsborough County Public Library Cooperative, FL

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2018
Two sisters--and the fate of an empire between them.Lu eagerly anticipates being appointed the next empress of the Hu dynasty. She has been training her body for battle since the age of 7 and at 16 is planning her first decree. Also known as the Small Princess, Minyi admires and resents her hotheaded sister. Lu's plans go awry when the ailing emperor betroths her to Lord Set, naming him the successor. Plotting, scheming, and assassination attempts drive the sisters in different directions. Lu seeks to raise her own army with the help of the surviving Gifted Kith, shape-shifters, and the Yunians, magic users. Meanwhile, caught between the manipulations of Set, a monk, and her mother, Min awakens to a power she struggles to understand and the mean pleasure she derives from using it. Neither Min nor Lu are particularly likable characters: Lu's arrogance is clearly displayed, while Minyi is emotionally self-flagellating at every opportunity. They are relatable, however, in terms of living in a sibling's shadow and redefining the person you wish to be. The worldbuilding in this Asian-inspired setting is strong as the author slowly uncovers the empire's origins, and the characters transform in surprising ways. Other than the gray eyes of the Hana family, most characters have dark brown eyes, black hair, and brown or tawny skin.Recommended for readers who enjoy imperfect characters and complex plots. (Fantasy. 14-18)

COPYRIGHT(2018) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.