Fireheart Tiger is a burst of a novella, filling less than 100 pages with a powerful story of politics, queer romance, and magic that intermingles into a unique fantasy tale. It was a story I wanted more of, but the little we’re given is powerful. 

The Best Bits

A Few of My Favorite Things

The Main Character’s Growth

Thanh is a princess who is at the bottom of the royal hierarchy, one whose mother, the Empress, doesn’t respect her abilities to navigate court life and the relationships at its center. She starts the novella unsure of herself and confident that love is the only thing she has to offer. It takes the support of Giang, a being made of fire, to give her the strength necessary to see her love of a rival princess as a falsehood and to take control of her own life. I was impressed at how full the character arc was in under 100 pages and applaud the author. 

A Hint of Magic

Magic isn’t a big part of this world. There are no mages, no sorcerers, no magical abilities by warring royal families. Giang is an anomaly straight out of folklore and mythology, making her a shocking element within the storyline. She’s an all powerful being when provoked and there’s no illusion that Thanh is able to control her. It’s only through real intimacy that Giang and Thanh form an understanding about the importance of protecting Thanh’s home from accidental destruction. The author does a great job highlighting Giang’s transformations between her various forms, evoking wonder, beauty and fear throughout. 

Politics Front and Center

Political intrigue was the real underlying thread and it weaved seamlessly alongside Thanh’s character growth. Thanh’s history as a pawn of her Mother’s court plays out after she’s returned to her own home, and those early life experiences give her the slow courage to stand up for her abilities as a Princess and as a negotiator. She has the intellect and intrigue to navigate threats and it takes Giang’s support and an eye-opening encounter with her former lover to propel her into a more solid role in politics. The intrigue is strong, making this a compelling read from start to finish.