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She Who Became the Sun

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

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Shelley Parker-Chan

She Who Became the Sun

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

414

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ming Dynasty China • 14th Century

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan is a historical and LGBTQ+ fantasy novel set in 14th-century China. A peasant girl assumes her dead brother's identity to achieve greatness, joining a monastery and then the Red Turban rebels. She battles Mongol forces, navigates political intrigue, and rises to power, ultimately declaring herself emperor. The novel includes dehumanizing language regarding gender, graphic violence, and explicit sex.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Challenging

Fantastical

Reviews & Readership

4.1

83,642 ratings

69%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Shelley Parker-Chan's She Who Became the Sun is widely praised for its rich world-building, compelling characters, and intricate blend of historical fiction and fantasy. Critics commend its exploration of themes like gender and destiny. However, some note that the pacing can be uneven and the complex plot occasionally confusing. Overall, it's a powerful debut.

Who should read this

Who Should Read She Who Became the Sun?

Readers who relish historical epics with a blend of fantasy will enjoy She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan. Fans of Mulan's resilience and the intricate politics of The Song of Achilles and Circe will find a compelling narrative exploring identity, ambition, and destiny in Ming Dynasty China.

4.1

83,642 ratings

69%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

414

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ming Dynasty China • 14th Century

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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