In the second and final book in the Sword Maiden from the Moon duology, Alice Poon continues Sai’er’s story as she and the White Lotus Sect continue to oppose Emperor Zhu Di. With new enemies like the Green Dragon and other followers of Zhu Di, Sai’er and her community continue to fight against his tyranny, but this final fight with Zhu Di overshadows her hope for peace and happiness with Sanbao. Joining Sai’er for this final fight, readers will not be able to put this powerful, magical sequel down. Poon’s characters and the blend of mythological folklore create a beautiful and complex narrative that is vividly alive. The incredible mix of genres really adds to the nature of the novel and makes it unique; the focus on mythology and martial arts emphasize the larger and more powerful themes of love, fellowship, and loyalty. Sai’er continues her growth as a character in this sequel, adding to her already strong characterization from the first book, and the increased stakes of this novel really challenge her in new and interesting ways. A brilliant conclusion to a brilliant duology, Poon finishes strong as readers follow Sai’er’s journey in this final fight against Emperor Zhu Di’s tyranny.

This is such a wonderful series, I feel like it was written for me personally! It distilled so many of the things I have come to love by watching wuxia/xianxia dramas, and adds some elements that I feel have kinship with bildungsroman about strong girls and women I liked to read as a child. At the same time this is not a YA, it has a range of nuance that is fully fledged adult fiction and all the lore enjoyable for it. Thank you so much Alice Poon for writing this, and from such a place of warm love too.

Fitting conclusion to this lovely duology! Earthly Blaze is fast paced and action packed with beautiful imagery throughout. I have loved seeing Sai’er grow and develop as a leader and adored her romance being woven so naturally.

It was a real treat to return to this world and I felt the dialogue significantly improved from the first book. I do think the author could fall into the trap of over writing in some areas, but the writing style felt true to the world Alice is creating and is a wonderful portrayal of wuxia/xianxia fiction.

Overall, the Sword Maiden of the Moon duology is an enjoyable read and would definitely recommend it to fans of Chinese mythology and folklore!

I loved the first book and love this one even more. It was so lovely to return and give answers to some of my questions. Alice is a phenomenal writer and this book really didn't miss it's mark!