This is historical fiction that takes on the story of Shek Yeung (more commonly known as Ching-Yi Sao, Zheng Yi Sao, Madam Ching, or Sek Yeung) the brutal Chinese pirate queen of the early 1800s. I knew nothing about her or her impact on history before, but I've since gone on a research binge & encourage you to do the same, because goddamn, was she cool.

As a teen, Shek Yeung's family is attacked by pirates & she's sold to a brothel. Years later, a pirate client notes her keen sense of observation & takes her from the brothel to be his wife. She grows into a cutthroat pirate & rules half of the largest fleet in China. This book begins with her first husband's death, & Shek Yeung's struggles to remain in power after. She marries her deceased husband's second-in-command & together they take control of not only their fleet but a large pirate alliance.

This book is classified as historical fantasy, which I think does it a disservice. There are lots of legends/folktales about Chinese gods included, & Shek Yeung contemplates them frequently, but those are the only fantasy elements involved. It's more historical fiction with a literary angle.

The political intrigue in this was top-notch, though, & we can positively spin my lack of education on 1800s world powers & the opium trade because I didn't see any of it coming. However, the book focuses more on Shek Yeung's interiority & less on the action. I highlighted a lot of thought-provoking quotes, especially about femininity & power, but ultimately didn't feel as connected to the characters as I'd have liked. I think the things I loved about this story were the events of the real Shek Yeung's life more than the fictionalized elements. The author concluded things in a way that allowed me to continue picturing the characters existing beyond the pages, but there were some threads I wish had been more wrapped up, despite knowing that was the point. That said, I'd love to read more about Shek Yeung, & would be interested in more from this author.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers, & the author for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review.