Descendant of the Crane by Joan He

Reviewed by Sam!

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Synopsis:

Tyrants cut out hearts. Rulers sacrifice their own.

Princess Hesina of Yan has always been eager to shirk the responsibilities of the crown, but when her beloved father is murdered, she’s thrust into power, suddenly the queen of an unstable kingdom. Determined to find her father’s killer, Hesina does something desperate: she engages the aid of a soothsayer—a treasonous act, punishable by death… because in Yan, magic was outlawed centuries ago.

Using the information illicitly provided by the sooth, and uncertain if she can trust even her family, Hesina turns to Akira—a brilliant investigator who’s also a convicted criminal with secrets of his own. With the future of her kingdom at stake, can Hesina find justice for her father? Or will the cost be too high?

In this shimmering Chinese-inspired fantasy, debut author Joan He introduces a determined and vulnerable young heroine struggling to do right in a world brimming with deception.

Synopsis from Goodreads

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What I drank prior: Linz hosted a brunch and I had alllll of the mimosas. All of them. Currently in an uber on the way home.

Spoiler-free Overview: basically this book starts with the death of Hesina’s dad, the king. Hesina is convinced that her dad’s death was murder so she starts an inquiry/trial with Akira as her Representative/lawyer. She’s got a blood brother and two non-blooded twin siblings. They all tell her not to start an investigation cause they don’t think she’s ready for the truth. She’s stubborn and continues on her way.

Spoiler-free Thoughts: this book was so good. I was immediately taken with the main character. I was sucked in and needed to know more immediately. I loved this.

Characters: our characters were compelling. Hesina is so real. She knows what she needs to do, but also knows that she’s not always right. Trying to figure out when to trust your gut and when not to is something I relate to. The best part is that she makes MISTAKES. Her siblings, too, are awesome. I didn’t quite understand the prior relationships there but hey, I’m not sure it was necessary to know. Seemed like a plot line that needed closing.

Plot: the mystery was enough to keep the plot going. I also appreciated the timing. It wasn’t like the whole book happened in 3 days, it was more like 8 months. The author did a good job portraying that.

Writing Style: it was well done. Not mind blowing but there were some moments of dialogue I found myself grinning at. And moments where i held the book to my chest because I was in love.

World Building: I cannot believe this is a stand alone. I want so much more. I need more of this world and it’s mechanics. GIVE ME MORE

What to pair it with: This is a really crisp white wine. It’s sharp, well rounded, well balanced wine.

Rating: 4/5 shots

COMMENT DOWN BELOW: WHO ELSE WANTS A SEQUEL!???!?!?!?!

Until next time, we remain forever drunkenly yours,
Sam