An excellent read. I was thoroughly engaged in this story. The world building, politics, family and the fighting/tournament elements were all good.
Looking forward to book 2.

Thank you netgalley for the advanced copy.

Breath of Dragon is a coming of age story set in a fictional Asian country divided into East and West by a wall. Those divisions run deep and for twin boys, it couldn't keep them farther apart. This book follows the headstrong twin as he makes his way across country ro compete in a mixed martial arts contest for the title of "guardian of the scroll". The world is filled with magic - the breath. All beings have the breath of the dragon within. Accessing and using it is different. Hopefully the next installment will detail life on the other side of the wall and maybe from the other twin's perspective. 4 out of 5 stars. Incredible fighting scenes!

This book is a force. I loved it so so much: the action scenes, the no romance, the tournament storyline—it felt like watching a movie. I loved the epic fight scenes and martial arts inspiration, and of course the academic rival dynamic, it was truly just a delight to read. 4.5.

In the beginning Jun is impulsive and selfish. We watch as he gains maturity. He competes in the Guardian Tournament and gets involved with the politics of the kingdom.

I enjoyed the descriptions of the tournament. This book doesn't shy away from violence and death. Some of the scenes are pretty graphic. I found the first few chapters a little slow, but the action soon picked up. I thought the breathmarked was a very interesting and creative idea. It will be interesting to see where the 2nd book goes.

I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher. I voluntarily left this review.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

I think this is Fonda Lee’s first foray into YA, and what a success!

I really enjoyed this book and it reminds me of what I consider to be the gold standard of middle grade- the Percy Jackson series- while this is YA, and therefore a smidge older, it reminds me of Riordan’s work because it’s a big adventure for a kid who acts his age. Like reading this book at the age of the main character would be so relatable, and reading it not is nostalgic. And it’s YA without being annoying or juvenile in the derogatory sense, but just a darn good story that happens to happen to a teen. Bravo!

This book reads like a manga book, but make it a novel.

Overall I would say this book was decent, as I did finish it in one sitting on a plane. Though if not bored out of my mind on a plane I do believe that I probably wouldn't have read this book as quickly.

Let's talk about what I do like about this story though, which is that the world-building is like stupidly cool. There are a lot of political issues occurring, and there's propaganda and a secondary guard force that mistreats people. So this part was super interesting, and reading about the world corruption was honestly fun. Also, this book does have great pacing, as it's fast and gets straight to the point. I was initially worried about certain fighting scenes but they were kept clean, understandable, simple, and pretty quick.

Sadly though there is a little bit that I didn't like...

I am just not a huge fan of books focused on fighting and fighting only, and the fact that the main character is also a man just gives this book such a weird masculine feeling. But truly though most of my qualms are just with the main character who makes a lot of stupid decisions, really only thinks about winning fights, and he's a man. I'm not too fond of stupid, headstrong, fighter-type male characters. So yeah that was a bit of a turn-off the whole time.

Overall though this book was interesting, had great worldbuilding, and a fast pace.

Don’t sleep on this book! First of all, Fonda Lee is an amazing author so I knew I needed to read this book. Second, this book reads like an action adventure anime story and I loved every second. It was filled with fights, drama, political intrigue and characters you can’t help but want to know more about.

Astonishingly (for me), I loved that this book really didn’t have romance. This is a story about finding your place in the world and fighting for what’s right and it didn’t need romance. I loved Jun and Ren’s relationship but found it was perfect as found family.

I can’t wait to read the sequel to this story because I need to know what’s next for these characters! Also, I will definitely reread this book before book 2 because there are so many small hints and clues of foreshadowing in this story alone, that I wouldn’t want to miss any in the sequel.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

It is SO awesome to see the author of Jade City and Bruce Lee's daughter unite for an amazing project. I had to jump into this arc and already preordered my copy with B&N. Thank you so much, publisher, for accepting me to read this one. Anything related to Bruce Lee reminds me of my childhood with my father, then when I was a teen the world lost Brandon... I will treasure this book. It will always be dear to me. Thank you, authors, for doing this project and the publisher for supporting it. 

The perfect coming-of-age story stars Jun, a 16 teen who wants to compete in the elite Guardian’s Tournament to become the Guardian himself. First, his heart and motivations are selfish, and towards revenge, he needs to prove to everyone that he is not just the spare twin who wasn't born with the Dragon's mark, but he has a raw talent that deserves to be put to good use. He tries to follow his goal, but he needs to get to the tournament and pay for the entry. To do so, he runs away hidden in a wagon of travelers who perform for the crowd as they go. This journey becomes more than just a way to earn money or get to the city. He learns more about their social and political situation, the differences between East and West, and soon he will want to fight for the people instead of getting wealth and fame. 

A refreshing duology with a martial arts focus, classic vibes, and a rebel on a path to glory who changes to social justice. Action and adventure with a lot of life lessons and virtue. Ren is the perfect companion to this selfish, impulsive teen. She is brave and the perfect friend. The Breath is like a powerful force that comes from within, very relatable to KI but also to our will to fight the wrongs in this world.

"Breath of the Dragon" by Fonda Lee and Shannon Lee is a masterful entry into the YA fantasy genre, combining rich world-building with a compelling narrative centered around themes of honor, perseverance, and self-discovery. Inspired by the teachings and characters created by the legendary Bruce Lee, this novel delivers an exhilarating blend of martial arts action and magical intrigue.

The story follows sixteen-year-old Jun, who is determined to redeem his family’s honor by winning the prestigious Guardian’s Tournament. This tournament, held every six years, chooses the new protector of the magical Scroll of Heaven, a position that Jun believes will restore his father’s pride and correct a past mistake that led to their banishment. Jun’s journey is fraught with obstacles, not least of which is his father’s strict prohibition against participating. His father’s disapproval stems from Jun not being breathmarked—born with a patch of dragon scales that endows special abilities, unlike his twin brother.

Jun’s determination and resilience lead him to stow away with performers Chang and his daughter, Ren, on their way to the capital where the tournament takes place. This decision sets off a chain of events that forces Jun to confront not only formidable opponents but also the harsh truths about his own identity and capabilities. The tournament becomes more than just a personal quest for Jun; it transforms into a battle for the fate of the entire country and the lives of those he holds dear.

Fonda Lee’s world-building is nothing short of phenomenal. The intricate details of the setting, the lore of the breathmarked, and the high stakes of the Guardian’s Tournament create a vivid and immersive reading experience. Each scene is meticulously crafted, bringing to life the intensity of the battles and the emotional depth of Jun’s journey.

The characters in "Breath of the Dragon" are well-developed and relatable. Jun is a particularly compelling protagonist; his inner struggles and growth throughout the story are portrayed with sensitivity and realism. Ren, Chang, and other supporting characters add richness to the narrative, each with their unique contributions and backstories that enhance the overall plot.

The action sequences are thrilling and cinematic, capturing the essence of martial arts that Bruce Lee so famously embodied. These scenes are not only exciting but also serve as pivotal moments for character development and plot progression. The themes of honor, sacrifice, and the pursuit of greatness are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the story, making it resonate on a deeper level.

"Breath of the Dragon" is a brilliant start to what promises to be an epic duology. It’s a must-read for fans of fantasy, martial arts, and stories that explore the depths of human potential and the power of perseverance. This book is not just about the physical battles fought in the tournament, but also about the internal battles faced by a young man striving to carve out his place in a world that has doubted him.

In conclusion, "Breath of the Dragon" is a captivating and inspiring tale that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment. Fonda Lee and Shannon Lee have created a memorable story that honors the legacy of Bruce Lee while standing on its own as a powerful addition to the YA fantasy genre.

I didn’t know that I needed this duo! This is fantastic and an unforgettable read. It is a magical journey that transports you to another world. The storytelling is superb, and the characters are richly developed. I would be highly recommending it and patiently wait for the next book in the instalment.

An imaginative and spellbinding fantasy novel. The plot is intricate and the magical elements are beautifully woven into the story. A truly enchanting read!

From start to finish "Breath of the Dragon" was an absolutely captivating and unputdownable read! I went into this book really intrigued by the premise and ended up forfeiting sleep so I could read it all in one session.

The authors did an excellent job crafting an intricate and interesting world, I was eagerly flipping pages curious what new information would be revealed.

The main characters are so well-developed and likeable, it was easy to become emotionally invested in this story. A found family trope will get me every single time.

Overall this was such a fantastic reading experience, a must-read if you enjoy books in the YA Fantasy genre!

Thank you Fonda Lee, Shannon Lee, Net Galley and St. Martin's Press- Wednesday Books for providing me with an ARC of this book.

Great ya fantasy, very immersive and great world building . Plenty of actions scenes and interesting settings . Definitely perfect for young people and fantasy readers

I am becoming a huge fan of this duology. Lee has created a well contracted character and world. I can't wait to see the second book. I want to know what happens and how this will all play out. This was a great, fast paced, and entertaining novel which sets up this duology so well.

CW: blood, gore

Jun Li is 16 years old and wants to be the Guardian of the West more than anything. The fighting tournament is held every six years, and the winner will become the protector of the scroll. However, his father strictly forbids it as there are people who are breathmarked entering, individuals born with dragon scales that develop powers. Jun sneaks onto a traveling caravan with a blind flutist and his daughter to go to the tournament anyway. The only thing is, this year the rules have changed. Will Jun fulfill his dream?

I think this would be perfect for any Bruce Lee fan since his daughter also worked on the novel. The fighting styles are definitely prevalent to his teachings. For people who can't handle blood though, this isn't for you. I thought Jun was selfish and the pacing was slightly off for me. I know they couldn't explain everything in this book but some plot lines seemed a little too vague. I did like the development of Jun and Yin though.

Overview:

👊 Tournament story
🚫 No romance
👨‍👩‍👦 Found family
🥋 Martial arts
⏩ Fast paced
👥 Academic rivals
👦 Male main character in a YA


Fonda Lee, queen of fantasy as teamed up with Shannon Lee to break into the wonderful world of Young Adult and has now conquered this too.

Jun is a passionate martial artist, exhaled from his homeland while his magic endowed twin is brought to court. Living a life desperate to prove himself, Jun enters the Guardian Tournament, where he can fight to rise in the ranks of his newfound kingdom.

But this year, the tournament is different deadlier. More corrupt- and Jun is starting to learn why.

Lets just get something out of the way now. This is an actual YA, age appropriate adventure about a 16 year old who acts like a teen. While this adventure is larger than life, its awesome reading a book where the prose and story are meant to reflect children instead of being an adult book with the serial numbers shaved off. This is the kind of book id be pumped to give to my teenagers. For lack of a better comparison, it reminds me of the type of adventure mixed with darkness the later Harry Potter books had.

Jun is a wonderful protagonist. Hes a rambunctious pain in the ass with a big ego and a lot to learn, but he really does learn and grow through the story and becomes a young man. The character moments for him are earned through his own actions and a wonderful supporting roster of bright characters.

Jun connects with a musical martial arts master and teen sidekick duo. A whole revolutionary army. A corrupt general and his monster, a conniving doctor. A cast of crazy fighters from all over the country...and last but not least, his academic rival Yin, the boy he's dedicated himself to beating that he slowly can't help but be drawn to as a brother.

These characters give life and vibrancy to this world and make it feel whole. Down to very minor characters, they are all memorable, creatively written, and interesting to follow. The dialogue is sharp and snappy and its easy to follow each character and their motives over the course of the story.

The plot blends court politics and extremely well written, epic fighting scenes. Imagine the first Throne of Glass book if it had a baby with Cobra Kai. Its a fast paced blast of a story that always gives you motivation to turn the page. Reading this felt like watching a CW show from 2010. Its candy, but its candy made from an artisan small batch crafter who takes pride in his work.

Anyone going into Breath of the Dragon for 'Jade City' is going to be miserable, but the story has Fonda Lee's sharp writing and wit and impossible ability to draw you into a story. This book knows and respects its teen audience and I think has a ton of crossover appeal with adults who just appreciate great writing. I look forward to the world discovering Breath of the Dragon and will be going absolutely nuts when the second book drops.

Sadly I DNF this book. I got half way through it and couldn't push through anymore. Some of the parts were really good and other parts seemed to drag on and on. The writting was good. I think it was the story that I wasn't a fan of. I think that readers that like Asian inspired book will love it though.

An absolutely brilliant book! Fonda Lee’s worldbuilding is phenomenal, and her immaculate plot and action. This book is descriptive and wonderfully crafted, definitely a must read if you love fantasy.

A special thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Publishing Group for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.