Author: K. X. Song
Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy
Publisher: Ace
Book Release Date: 2024
Pages: 430
Source: Netgalley/Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis: Infused with magic and romance, this sweeping fantasy adventure inspired by the legend of Mulan follows a young woman determined to choose her own destiny—even if that means going against everyone she loves.
The Three Kingdoms are at war, but Meilin’s father refuses to answer the imperial draft. Trapped by his opium addiction, he plans to sell Meilin for her dowry. But when Meilin discovers her husband-to-be is another violent, ill-tempered man, she realizes that nothing will change for her unless she takes matters into her own hands.
The very next day, she disguises herself as a boy and enlists in her father’s place.
In the army, Meilin's relentless hard work brings her recognition, friendship—and a growing closeness with Sky, a prince turned training partner. But has she simply exchanged one prison for another? As her kingdom barrels toward destruction, Meilin begins to have visions of a sea dragon spirit that offers her true power and freedom, but with a deadly price.
With the future of the Three Kingdoms hanging in the balance, Meilin will need to decide whom to trust—Sky, who inspires her loyalty and love; the sea dragon spirit, who has his own murky agenda; or an infuriating enemy prince who makes her question everything she once knew—about her kingdom and about her own heart.
My Review: The Night Ends With Fire is a retelling of Mulan set in a fantastical version of China during the Three Kingdoms era. Meilin’s kingdom is at war with the other two neighboring kingdoms. Meilin's cruel father refuses to join the war. Instead, he betrothed Meilin to another cruel man. Meilin escapes the marriage by posing as a man and joining the army in her father’s place. Could Meilin get away with hiding her secret knowing that the discovery of her secret means death?
I love the legend of Mulan. I have read the poem. I also grew up with the Disney movie, Mulan. I have also watched a few Chinese movies and tv shows about Mulan. I also love reading about the Three Kingdoms era. I have watched the movie, Red Cliff! I have also written many biographies of royal women during the Three Kingdoms era for the History of Royal Women website, which you could read here. Therefore, as a Mulan enthusiast I was thrilled to read Ms. Song’s Mulan retelling.
I was intrigued by Meilin. I like how she is very caring towards those around her. Meilin desires to love and to be loved. She wants to find acceptance and belonging. Therefore, I was drawn to her. I also like that she finds freedom in being a man and is not eager to go back to her life as a woman and resume womanly duties. I also like that Meilin works to build her strength and save her kingdom. She is a very strong woman and a great fighter! Therefore, I found Meilin to be a very engaging heroine! I couldn’t wait to see how her fate would unfold!
Overall, this book is about duty, loyalty, and ambition. I like all of the characters and thought that they were well-rounded. I also liked how it incorporated Chinese history and myth in the story. The things I did not like about this book was that Ms. Song’s world-building is very confusing and needs more explanation of her world. I did think that the romance was undeveloped and was instantaneous. Nevertheless, it was a very fast-paced and enthralling novel! I also loved Mrs. Song’s writing style, which I thought was filled with lush descriptions! I recommend this book for fans of Feather and Flame, Spin the Dawn, and The Magnolia Sword!
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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