Jade City by Fonda Lee

 

4/5 Stars 

Published by Orbit

Published June 26th, 2018 

Synopsis: The Kaul family is one of two crime syndicates that control the island of Kekon. It's the only place in the world that produces rare magical jade, which grants those with the right training and heritage superhuman abilities. The Green Bone clans of honorable jade-wearing warriors once protected the island from foreign invasion--but nowadays, in a bustling post-war metropolis full of fast cars and foreign money, Green Bone families like the Kauls are primarily involved in commerce, construction, and the everyday upkeep of the districts under their protection.

When the simmering tension between the Kauls and their greatest rivals erupts into open violence in the streets, the outcome of this clan war will determine the fate of all Green Bones and the future of Kekon itself.

This is an incredibly impressive story. Jade City is the first book I've ever read by Fonda Lee, so I was really excited to experience her writing. Her ability to craft a world so rich in detail and culture is one of the main reasons why I enjoyed this book so much. From complex family dynamics to political strife, Fonda Lee is able to explore themes of love and power through the Kaul family and their homeland of Kekon. The imaginative descriptions of Kekon's history, as well as a few chapters containing Kekonese myth and legend, made the story so immersive and fun to read about. There are clashes between clans, a land rife with magic, and a social hierarchy that beckons to be changed. After hearing so many positive things, I finally gave in to the recommendation, and I firmly believe that Fonda Lee has the makings of one of the best adult fantasy series around.

World building is such an important aspect of fantasy novels, but it can't carry a story all on its own. In this case, the world perfectly complements the story. I think the concept of jade inducing powers in humans is such a unique idea and Fonda Lee uses this to her advantage by creating a captivating storyline. There is a lot of tension between jade users and non-jade users, with the latter always scheming up ways to claim jade as their own. In conjunction with growing demands from a rival clan, the members of No Peak are engaged in battle for a good portion of the story. Jade City reminds me of a mafia au with high stake thievery, secret missions, and a lot of deadly fighting over drugs and jade. Fonda Lee is great at painting a picture, especially when it comes to a fight. The attention to detail makes everything so lively and epic. 

Plus, I love the Kaul family. Lan, the ruler of the No Peak clan, is unwavering in his loyalty to this family. He leads his clan through the possibility of war and remains thoughtful and clearheaded, which makes him such an interesting character when the inevitable chaos ensues. Hilo is the Horn of No Peak clan, which basically means he is second in command. He is eager to protect those around him, is always ready to pick a fight, and overall, he carried this whole book on his back. Shae is an intelligent woman who does not rely on the skills of others. She is one of my favorite characters because her complex history with her family leads to an important journey of self-reflection. Anden is the shyest little thing and his soft-spoken personality was a breath of fresh air amongst the intensity of the plot. All four of these characters contribute something different to the plot. Whether it be as a formidable leader or a talented fighter, they lead the story with purpose and quickly draw you in.

Jade City is the first fantasy adult novel I've read and I must say it sets the standard for all others pretty dang high. When you think the story couldn't get more intense, Fonda Lee is 10 steps ahead of you, ramping up the adrenaline. She has the ability to persuade you into thinking everything is alright, then absolutely shatter your mind. While I would label this as an action-heavy book, there is some romance and at times the dialogue can be witty and playful, which makes way for some lightheartedness in the midst of utter chaos. After the way book 1 ended, I am so excited to read Jade War. Fonda Lee has set the stage for the involvement of foreign countries in Kekon affairs, more criminal activity in the fight for power, and an all-out war over the production of jade. I hope to see all of this and more in the sequel.