Jade

The book "Jade City" by Fonda Lee is the first installment in the Green Bone Saga, a fantasy series that explores the intricate world of Kekon, an island nation with a unique magical system tied to the mineral jade.

Plot Summary

Premise: The story takes place a generation after the Many Nations War, a conflict analogous to World War II, which ended foreign occupation of Kekon. The One Mountain Society, a national liberation movement, disintegrated into several rival clans after the war. The most powerful clans are the isolationist Mountain clan led by the Ayt family and the internationalist No Peak clan led by the Kaul family. Each clan has a Pillar, Horn, and Weather Man: the Pillar is the head of the clan, the Horn leads its street fighters, and the Weather Man handles business activities.

Key Elements:

• Jade: The mineral jade is central to the story. It enhances abilities when worn, but its safe use requires a combination of genetic predisposition and intense training in the six jade disciplines. Only Kekonese with mixed aboriginal and settler ancestry can use jade long-term. Those who cannot use jade are called "stone-eyes" and are considered unlucky. The drug SN1, or shine, can increase one's jade tolerance.
• Clan Politics: The novel delves into the complex politics and power struggles between the Mountain and No Peak clans. The Kaul family of No Peak clan faces challenges from the Ayt family of the Mountain clan, leading to a web of alliances, betrayals, and violence.

Themes

• Power and Corruption: The novel explores the corrupting influence of power and the consequences of treachery within the clans.
• Family and Loyalty: The story highlights the importance of family and loyalty in a world where clan affiliations are paramount.
• Identity and Belonging: Characters struggle with their identities and sense of belonging, particularly in a society where jade use is tied to specific genetic and cultural backgrounds.
• Violence and Legacy: The novel examines the legacy of violence and the ongoing impact of historical conflicts on contemporary society.

Critical Reception

"Jade City" has received positive reviews for its richly detailed world-building, complex characters, and gripping plot. Critics have praised Lee's ability to weave together elements of fantasy, crime fiction, and kung fu to create a compelling narrative. The book has been described as a "Godfather-esque saga" with a deep exploration of intergenerational blood feuds and the intricate politics of the Kekonese clans.

The series has also been noted for its nuanced portrayal of characters and their motivations, as well as its exploration of themes such as corruption, treason, and the consequences of painful choices. The series' depth and ambition have been widely praised, making it a standout in the fantasy genre.

Overall, "Jade City" is a complex and engaging novel that sets the stage for a compelling series, offering readers a richly detailed world and complex characters to follow.