Iron Widow

Iron Widow is a groundbreaking young adult science fiction novel that reimagines the rise of China's only female emperor, Wu Zetian, in a futuristic, misogynistic world. Eighteen-year-old Zetian volunteers as a concubine-pilot for giant mechas, seeking vengeance for her sister's death. She quickly discovers her rare ability to sacrifice male co-pilots, becoming a feared 'Iron Widow.' Paired with a powerful, ostracized male pilot, Li Shimin, and later joined by her childhood friend Gao Yizhi, Zetian forms a polyamorous relationship and an alliance to dismantle a deeply corrupt, patriarchal system that exploits women. This action-packed story explores themes of gender inequality, power, vengeance, and identity, set against a backdrop of mecha battles and political intrigue. It's ideal for mature YA readers aged 14+ who enjoy complex world-building and strong, defiant female protagonists.

The instant #1 New York Times bestseller, now available in a stunning new paperback look with bonus content. Pacific Rim meets The Handmaid's Tale in this blend of Chinese history and mecha science fiction for YA readers. The boys of Huaxia dream of pairing up with girls to pilot Chrysalises, giant transforming robots that can battle the aliens that lurk beyond the Great Wall of China. It doesn't matter that the girls die from the mental strain. When 18-year-old Zetian offers herself up as a concubine-pilot, it's to assassinate the ace male pilot responsible for her sister's death. But when she gets her vengeance, it becomes clear that she is an Iron Widow, a rare kind of female pilot who can sacrifice males to power up Chrysalises instead. To tame her frightening yet valuable mental strength, she is paired up with Li Shimin, the strongest male pilot in Huaxia, yet feared and ostracized for killing his father and brothers. But now that Zetian has had a taste of power, she will not cower so easily. She will take over instead, then leverage their combined strength to force her society to stop failing its women and girls. Or die trying. This deluxe new paperback edition features eight pages of Chrysalis concept art and a discussion guide.