Immortal: A Journey Through Love, Politics, and Unexpected Twists
There are books that whisper from the shelves, enticing you with their covers and promises, and then there are books like Immortal by Sue Lynn Tan that practically shout: "Read me!" From the moment I spotted its stunning cover on Netgalley, I was entranced. The blend of exquisite artistry and a premise tangled in rich themes of love, rivalry, and the complexities of existence drew me in. Little did I know that this would become one of my favorite reads of the year—if not of all time!
Immortal follows Liyen, an unyielding princess of the Mortal Realm of Tianxia, who, upon receiving the Divine Pearl Lotus, transforms from a sickly mortal into an empowered leader. As she battles not only her physical ailments but also political turmoil and personal sacrifice, Liyen emerges as an unforgettable female lead. Now add in Zhangwei, the God of War, who is steeped in myth and enveloped in misunderstanding. Their romance is compellingly multifaceted—going from rivals to enemies to unexpected lovers. It is hard not to root for them, even when their journey tests the boundaries of love and war.
Tan’s characters leap off the page and into your heart, thanks to her vivid writing style. There’s a sharp wit and emotional depth that make every interaction feel authentic. I found myself laughing out loud at Liyen’s banter and Zhangwei’s dry humor, while simultaneously feeling the weight of their struggles. One moment, you’re giggling over their exchanges; the next, you’re holding your breath as the stakes rise higher. One quote that resonated with me deeply is, “But I’ll take a curse from you any day, over the praise from any other.” It encapsulates the essence of their tumultuous relationship—proving that love can be beautifully chaotic and painfully real.
Initially, the pacing had me concerned; the first few chapters felt like a gentle stroll when I was ready for a sprint. But as I navigated deeper into Liyen’s world, I realized that each moment spent building the foundation of this universe served a purpose. By the time the plot twists took me completely off guard, I was already captivated by the intricacies woven into Tan’s storytelling.
One of the most striking elements of the story is its exploration of politics alongside romance. It elevates the narrative, making it not just a love story, but a dense tapestry of conflicts that require more than just brute strength to overcome. The characters grapple with their pasts and their futures, presenting the reader with a nuanced perspective on the consequences of war—a lesson that feels vitally important today.
As I closed the last page, I felt an ache in my heart. The beauty of Immortal lingers long after the last word; it’s a story I’ll revisit, a piece of art I’ll hold close to my soul. To say that I cannot recommend this book highly enough feels like an understatement. If you’re a fan of richly crafted worlds, emotion-driven narratives, and complex characters, mark your calendar for its release on January 7, 2025. You won’t want to miss it!
In short, Immortal is not just a book; it’s a powerful experience that invites you into a universe where love, strength, and growth intertwine. Zhangwei has stolen my heart, and I can’t wait to dive back into this world to experience it all over again. Here’s to hoping that you, too, will find magic within its pages! 💗