Jade City

A triad style mafiosa in an urban fantasy setting. This is the clever context that Fonda Lee sets up her Green Bone Saga. We are introduced to a world where the population of a small island nation possess the ability to use jade to power magical abilities. The trade in this jade is controlled through the gangs that effectively rule the island. This is all destabilized when a gang war breaks out...

Whilst it feels wrong empathizing with gang lord characters, Fonda Lee has managed to make them incredibly sympathetic. The relationships within the gang are wonderfully realized helping to make these antihero type characters incredibly engaging.

The world built is an intriguing one - the magic system is well realized, the historical background is believable and well built. A highly impressive start to a series that I look forward to continuing!