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Jade City

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Fonda Lee

Jade City

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

560

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Janloon • 20th century fantasy world

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In the city of Janloon on the island of Kekon, the powerful No Peak and Mountain Clans, led by the Kaul and Ayt families respectively, vie for control over the jade trade, which grants its wielders supernatural abilities. Amid escalating tensions, the Kaul siblings—Lan, Hilo, and Shae—struggle to maintain their family’s dominance and navigate intra-clan conflicts, betrayal, and warfare to protect their legacy. The novel contains scenes of violence, issues related to substance use, and themes involving the legacy of anti-Asian racism.

Mysterious

Gritty

Suspenseful

Challenging

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.2

85,943 ratings

80%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Fonda Lee's Jade City is praised for its intricate world-building and compelling characters, blending fantasy with gangster drama. Critics commend its exploration of power dynamics and familial loyalty. However, some find the dense narrative and multiple viewpoints initially overwhelming. Despite this, the novel's originality and depth have earned it significant acclaim.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Jade City?

Readers who enjoy Jade City by Fonda Lee typically appreciate intricate world-building, political intrigue, and martial arts fantasy. Fans of The Godfather by Mario Puzo and The Grace of Kings by Ken Liu will find parallels in the novel's clan dynamics and rich, Asian-inspired setting. This book is ideal for those who seek a blend of modern and epic storytelling.

4.2

85,943 ratings

80%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Lan

The eldest brother of the Kaul family and Pillar of No Peak, who struggles with the responsibilities of leadership and maintaining strength in a time of escalating conflict.

The second son of the Kaul family, known for his impulsive and reactive nature, who starts as the clan's Horn and must adapt to new responsibilities after a significant turning point in the story.

The sole sister of the Kaul family, who initially rejects her Green Bone identity but finds herself taking on a crucial role within the clan upon her return to Kekon.

The adopted brother in the Kaul family, much younger than the others, grappling with feelings of indebtedness and the challenges of training as a Green Bone.

The original Weather Man for the Kaul family under Lan’s grandfather, acting as an antagonist, often providing cold and strategic advice at odds with family and tradition.

The formidable Pillar of the Mountain Clan, whose strategic and decisive leadership positions her as a significant antagonist in her pursuit of expanding her organization.

A small-time thief motivated by the desire to obtain jade and upset the existing power dynamics, viewing jade as the key to gaining status and power.

Book Details
Pages

560

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Janloon • 20th century fantasy world

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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