Flame in the Mist by Renée Ahdieh is an amazing Mulan retelling. This story is about a girl who disguises herself as a boy to get revenge on a group of men who attempted to assassinate her. The main character is brave and intelligent, and I adored the Feudal Japanese setting. This fantasy book is just so original and I definitely encourage everyone to read it.
Series: Flame in the Mist #1
Author: Renée Ahdieh
Also by this author: The Wrath & the Dawn (The Wrath & the Dawn #1)
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult Fiction
Publication Date: May 16, 2017
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Series Rating:
The only daughter of a prominent samurai, Mariko has always known she’d been raised for one purpose and one purpose only: to marry. Never mind her cunning, which rivals that of her twin brother, Kenshin, or her skills as an accomplished alchemist. Since Mariko was not born a boy, her fate was sealed the moment she drew her first breath.
So, at just seventeen years old, Mariko is sent to the imperial palace to meet her betrothed, a man she did not choose, for the very first time. But the journey is cut short when Mariko’s convoy is viciously attacked by the Black Clan, a dangerous group of bandits who’ve been hired to kill Mariko before she reaches the palace.
The lone survivor, Mariko narrowly escapes to the woods, where she plots her revenge. Dressed as a peasant boy, she sets out to infiltrate the Black Clan and hunt down those responsible for the target on her back. Once she’s within their ranks, though, Mariko finds for the first time she’s appreciated for her intellect and abilities. She even finds herself falling in love—a love that will force her to question everything she’s ever known about her family, her purpose, and her deepest desires.
❃ I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. ❃
Review: Flame in the Mist by Renée Ahdieh
It is shocking to me that I have never read a Mulan retelling before. Mulan is probably my favourite Disney movie, so when I saw that one of my favourite authors had written a retelling of it, I knew it was going to be good. This book tells the story of a girl who is attacked by a group of bandits and secretly joins their group while disguised as a boy to figure out who is responsible. I loved the whole secret society idea, and of course Mariko’s attempts to ensure that she isn’t found out. This book is so action-packed and will definitely keep you on the edge of your seat!
❀ Amazing Main Character
I adored Mariko’s character! She is so strong and intelligent. Her plan to attack the Black Clan from within is so daring, and even though she is treated horribly at first, she remains determined. Mariko discovers her many talents while she is in the Black Clan and is committed to proving her worth as a female. She is the epitome of strength, courage, and independence, and I was definitely rooting for her the whole way.
❀ Japan Setting is Original
The Feudal Japanese setting in Flame in the Mist is so original! I’ve read books set in Japan before, but I’ve never read anything set in Feudal Japan. The Japanese mythology and terms throughout the book are so interesting to me, and I feel like I learned a lot while reading. The descriptions of the scenery and culture are also so vivid, making the story come to life. After reading this book, I really need more books with this setting.
❀ Fantastic Retelling
Flame in the Mist by Renée Ahdieh is the Mulan retelling that I’ve always wanted. The main character is headstrong and independent, and the setting is very unique. I can’t wait for the next book in this YA book series to be released!
About Renée Ahdieh
Renée Ahdieh is the author of the #1 New York Times bestselling The Wrath and the Dawn and The Rose and the Dagger. In her spare time, she likes to dance salsa and collect shoes. She is passionate about all kinds of curry, rescue dogs, and college basketball. The first few years of her life were spent in a high-rise in South Korea; consequently, Renée enjoys having her head in the clouds. She lives in Charlotte, North Carolina, with her husband and their tiny overlord of a dog.
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Olivia ❀ Canadian YA book blogger, Starbucks lover, & professional bibliophile.