Priest

杀破狼 [Sha Po Lang]

kyra

** spoiler alert **
           I can't add a 'tl;dr' to this review, because my thoughts about the book, like it's plot can't be summarised.

I'll begin with what could have been better and get it out of the way. The book tries to be many things at once. I do not usually box books into genres, I do not mind the story dipping its toes in different styles. We have steam punk elements, politics, economic reforms, history, romance, friendships. I enjoyed the way it all came together and will definitely revisit the book to read it again. Yet, I'd have liked to see the steampunk tech (more meca suits & fights) play a bigger role in the narrative. Some parts of the book feel like excerpts from a history book. The ending feels like the author wrapped it all in a bow and handed it to us. The antidote and the cure to the bone of impurity being found seems a bit unrealistic especially compared to the realistic struggles the characters g(r)o(w) through. Some sentences were too nationalist for me, but it's historical war/ political fiction.

Now, moving on to the good stuff - Gu Yun, ah Gu Yun. This is Gu Yun's world and we're all Chang Geng; it is impossible to read the first chapter and not fall in love with GY's character. So full of self-awareness, confidence, good-will, with equal parts wit. Chang Geng's growth is a delight to read, he's a well balanced character. His personality may come off as bland, but it's just very ...subtle, hidden behind words and actions. Both are a combination of ruthless yet gentle. Shen Yi, Chen Qingxu, Liao Ran, Ge Chen and Cao Chunhua are excellent side characters. Their development and evolution is also well done! Li Feng was an interesting character to read because his motives remain unclear.

4.5/5 for the plot. I had to read a few parts twice to understand the scheming (esp. Gu Yun being imprisoned, the Feng Huo Tickets issue), but that's probably just me. Found it strange that the Emperor had the antidote all along - what does this even mean? 

The way the writing (translation?) flows is smooth, I didn't want to stop reading the book. 100/10. It's portrayal of disabilities, physical and mental health issues is elegant. The flirting, the affection, the romance overall is exquisite, despite my initial trepidition on the nature of their relationship. (I was giddy for the entire afternoon after reading the chapter where they get together). The friendships are to die for. The tech - they light armour, the wooden birds, the red kite are all fascinating (can't wait to see them visualised in the LA!). 

Even though the book isn't explicitly focused on the romance, it is largely driven by it. The two of them learn to 'live' for the other (as opposed to 'dying' for love), they learn to love together, they understand each other in different ways. CG learns that his self worth doesn't depend on GY (or anyone else). (From now, I may picture a monocled GY coming to lecture me on self-respect if I internally put myself down). 

Something I'll have to mention and praise again - the effortless representation of disability and health issues. 

Heartful appreciation for Northwest Flower for the brilliant translation.