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Xiran Jay Zhao
Iron Widow
In a dystopian world, young women sacrifice themselves to pilot giant mechas and fight alien invaders. This YA fantasy series follows a powerful girl who defies expectations, seeking revenge and challenging a patriarchal system that exploits women. Expect high-stakes action and a fight for freedom.
The Iron Widow series is planned as a duology, with the second book, Heavenly Tyrant, concluding the story.
The series is notable for its unique blend of sci-fi mecha battles with a strong feminist and anti-patriarchal narrative, drawing inspiration from Chinese history and mythology.
Readers should be aware that the series contains themes of violence, abuse, and discussions of misogyny, which are central to the protagonist's journey and the world-building.