Iron Widow, Book 1

In a world where giant mechas called Chrysalises battle alien threats beyond the Great Wall of China, 18-year-old Wu Zetian volunteers as a concubine-pilot to avenge her sister’s death. But instead of falling victim to the system that sacrifices girls, she becomes an Iron Widow—a rare pilot who can wield male pilots’ energy to fuel her power. Teamed with Li Shimin, a feared prodigy haunted by his past, Zetian’s thirst for vengeance evolves into a crusade to dismantle the oppressive society that discards women.

The story blends relentless action with sharp social commentary, reimagining Chinese history and folklore through a futuristic lens. As Zetian and Shimin uncover dark secrets about their world, they forge an unlikely alliance, balancing trust and rivalry while confronting their own vulnerabilities. The novel’s mecha battles are visceral and inventive, mirroring the emotional stakes of characters fighting for autonomy in a world that fears their strength.

Themes of rebellion, gender inequality, and found family are woven into a narrative that refuses to shy away from brutality or hope. Zetian’s voice is unapologetically fierce, blending rage with strategic brilliance as she challenges systemic misogyny. The deluxe paperback edition includes bonus content like concept art and a discussion guide, enriching the experience for readers.

Zhao’s world-building is immersive, merging sci-fi spectacle with grounded cultural references. The pacing is relentless, balancing high-stakes battles with quieter moments of character growth. This is a story about reclaiming power in a world designed to crush you—and the explosive consequences of refusing to play by its rules.