The Spear Cuts Through Water

This book was the August read for the Sword and Laser podcast. Set in what feels like ancient/mythical China, the bulk of the story follows two warriors who must free and return the Empress (who is also the moon) to her home. It is a story of battles and intrigue and the relationships between our warriors and the Empress. What makes this novel different is the story structure. While you are following the main story, you are also following the story of a magical theater which is showing a play of this story, and you are also in the personal life of one of the members of the audience in the play.

You know how some books are really easy and just fly by? Popcorn/beach reads? Yeah, this was not that. Which is not to say that the book was not good. It's just....thick. It took me a while to really get into the book, although once I was in I was invested. The prose is very pretty, and the unusual structure is a nice departure (although again requires a bit of concentration). I'm glad I read it, totally recommend it, just don't expect to fly through this one in a few days.