Blurb:

The Kaul siblings' battle with rival clans reaches new heights in the heart-pounding continuation of the Green Bone Saga, an epic trilogy about family, honor, and those who live and die by the ancient laws of blood and jade.

On the island of Kekon, the Kaul family is locked in a violent feud for control of the capital city and the supply of magical jade that endows trained Green Bone warriors with supernatural powers they alone have possessed for hundreds of years.

Beyond Kekon's borders, war is brewing. Powerful foreign governments and mercenary criminal kingpins alike turn their eyes on the island nation. Jade, Kekon's most prized resource, could make them rich - or give them the edge they'd need to topple their rivals.

Faced with threats on all sides, the Kaul family is forced to form new and dangerous alliances, confront enemies in the darkest streets and the tallest office towers, and put honor aside in order to do whatever it takes to ensure their own survival—and that of all the Green Bones of Kekon.

Review:

Jade War by Fonda Lee picks up a few months after Jade City, with the Kaul family navigating their new roles and struggling to establish a stronghold over Kekon’s territory to prevent being overpowered by the Mountain clan. With tensions rising outside Kekon’s borders, foreign governments and criminal kingpins set their sights on jade, hoping to shift the balance of power in the brewing conflicts.

I was initially hesitant to start Jade War because, while I felt Jade City laid a solid foundation, it didn’t fully connect with me due to the dense world-building. However, the latter part of Jade City won me over with its action-packed, nail-biting sequences and I ultimately picked up Jade War to join my first buddy read on Bookstagram for Jade Legacy.

Jade War elevated this series to new heights with its gripping tension, intense emotions, and epic action sequences. Fonda Lee crafted a masterful sequel that gave me everything I had hoped to see in Jade City. I was so absorbed that I finished it in a week, fully immersed in the world and characters she had created. Fonda proves with this book that no one is safe, keeping readers on edge until the very end.

This instalment focuses heavily on Shae, who didn’t receive as much development in Jade City, though having some memorable moments. I had hoped to see more of her character and was thrilled that Fonda delivered. Though Shae takes centre stage, characters like Wen, Hilo, and Anden still have incredible arcs, never fading into the background. Shae’s growth in Jade War is exceptional. Having been reluctantly thrust into the role of WeatherMan, she faces ongoing resistance but rises to the challenge, showing resilience and strategic skill. Watching her prove herself to the clan, particularly in a high-stakes scene, was both thrilling and anxiety-inducing, further solidifying that Fonda Lee will keep you guessing at every turn.

Hilo’s character arc in Jade War is both captivating and terrifying. Initially, it seemed he was adjusting to his role as Pillar, stepping back from his instinct to use force as he did as a Horn. Just when I thought he was becoming more level-headed, he took a shocking, morally grey action that left me second guessing my initial thoughts. Hilo’s complexity and his fierce loyalty to family and friends even at the expense of the clan. Watching him balance clan and fatherly duties added depth to his character.

Wen and Anden also shine in Jade War. Each has a remarkable journey, transforming from underdogs to key players within the clan. Anden’s rise to become a key character, after his turbulent journey, made him a standout, while Wen’s determination to play an active role, despite being a stone eye, brought fresh layers to her character. Wen takes bold risks for the good of the clan, supporting Hilo in building his power and proving she’s more than capable.

Several moments in this book overwhelmed me with emotion, as I’d grown so attached to the characters that I found myself rooting for them at every turn. Even when their choices veered into morally grey territory, I felt I could still support them, understanding the complex motivations behind each decision. This layered portrayal made them feel deeply real, and I couldn’t help but empathise, even when their actions were questionable. The stakes felt so high that I was completely invested in their journeys, hoping they would ultimately find success or redemption.. 

In conclusion, Jade War by Fonda Lee is an outstanding novel, delivering everything a fantasy reader could want from epic action, emotional depth, and meticulous world-building. Fonda Lee not only tells a compelling story but also expands her world and magic system, hinting that there’s even more to come. I can’t wait to read Jade Legacy and witness the conclusion of this epic story. I’ve grown deeply attached to these characters and eagerly anticipate seeing where their paths lead. If you haven’t picked up this series yet, I highly recommend it as it’s absolutely phenomenal.