Review of She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan
There’s something irresistibly compelling about stories that challenge destiny, and She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan does just that with an electrifying spark. How could I resist a tale pitched as The Song of Achilles meets Mulan? The comparison certainly sets the bar high, but this debut novel doesn’t just meet the expectations—it elegantly surpasses them. With an enthralling cover designed by JungShan Ink, She Who Became the Sun had me hooked before I even opened the first page.
Set against the backdrop of a famine-stricken 14th-century China, the narrative begins with two children: Zhu Chongba, destined for greatness, and a nameless girl fated to become nothing. The twist is deliciously dramatic; when tragedy strikes, the girl seizes her brother’s name and must navigate a world that deems her insignificant. Zhu’s fierce desire to survive is nothing short of inspiring, and I found myself deeply moved by her journey. The exploration of themes like destiny, identity, and the gray areas of moral choice felt universally relatable—a reminder that we all have the power to shape our own lives, even when the odds are stacked against us.
One of the most striking elements of Parker-Chan’s writing is her lush, lyrical prose. Quote after quote pulls you deeper into the emotional landscape of the characters. For instance, “Becoming nothing was the most terrifying thing she could think of” encapsulates Zhu’s compelling struggle for existence. I couldn’t help but feel invigorated by her resilience, her cunning in the face of overwhelming adversity. The author introduces us to a multi-POV structure in Part II, which initially made me apprehensive, fearing a dilution of the rich character depth established in Part I. To my delight, the shift only enhanced the narrative, providing a fuller tapestry of motivations and emotions as we meet characters like Ma, Ouyang, and Esen.
As I navigated through Zhu’s evolution, the poignant realization struck me that her will alone isn’t enough—"survival depends upon understanding people and power.” This truth resonated with me, prompting reflections on my own life and the dynamics that shape our paths. The compassion offered to Zhu and her journey left me pondering my own struggles and aspirations.
As I reach the conclusion of my reading experience, it’s clear that She Who Became the Sun is more than mere fantasy; it’s a beautifully crafted historical piece, infused with layers of complexity. Parker-Chan’s storytelling excels in creating tension and intricacy, and the emotional stakes never wavered.
This book is destined for greatness and resonates with readers who enjoy rich character studies and historical narratives woven with fantasy elements. Whether you’re a fan of compelling protagonists, complex moral dilemmas, or beautifully rendered settings, there’s something here to captivate you. In a world rife with challenges, Zhu’s relentless pursuit of identity and purpose is a reminder to claim greatness for ourselves. I can’t wait to see how this duology unfolds!
She Who Became the Sun officially releases on July 20, 2021—don’t miss the chance to add this stirring saga to your reading list. For those eager to dive into a world of ambition and destiny, subscribe to my Booktube channel here for more insights and discussions. Happy reading!
Discover more about She Who Became the Sun (The Radiant Emperor, #1) on GoodReads >>