She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan is a historical and LGBTQ+ fantasy novel set in 14th-century China. A peasant girl assumes her dead brother's identity to achieve greatness, joining a monastery and then the Red Turban rebels. She battles Mongol forces, navigates political intrigue, and rises to power, ultimately declaring herself emperor. The novel includes dehumanizing language regarding gender, graphic violence, and explicit sex.

Shelley Parker-Chan's She Who Became the Sun is widely praised for its rich world-building, compelling characters, and intricate blend of historical fiction and fantasy. Critics commend its exploration of themes like gender and destiny. However, some note that the pacing can be uneven and the complex plot occasionally confusing. Overall, it's a powerful debut.

Readers who relish historical epics with a blend of fantasy will enjoy She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan. Fans of Mulan's resilience and the intricate politics of The Song of Achilles and Circe will find a compelling narrative exploring identity, ambition, and destiny in Ming Dynasty China.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Challenging / Fantastical

- She Who Became the Sun, Shelley Parker-Chan's debut novel, combines elements of historical fiction and fantasy set against the backdrop of a reimagined 14th-century China.
- The novel was a finalist for the 2021 Lambda Literary Award for LGBTQ Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Horror, showcasing its recognition within the LGBTQ literary community.
- Inspired by the author's love for fantasy epics and their interest in gender identity, the book explores themes of identity, ambition, and destiny in a unique historical setting.

**Zhu Chongba / Zhu Yuanzhang**  
Born a nameless peasant girl in a famine-stricken village, she assumes her brother's identity and fate to survive, ultimately ascending as a key leader within the Red Turbans. Zhu is marked by her strategic acumen and complex grappling with gender identity.

**Ma Xiuying**  
An educated and wise woman connected to the Red Turbans through her family and betrothal. She forms a significant bond with Zhu, providing her with guidance and support while navigating her own place in the political landscape.

**Left Minister Chen Youliang**  
A ruthless and manipulative politician striving for power within the Red Turbans. Chen is characterized by his constant testing of Zhu's loyalty and strategic machinations within factional struggles.

**General Ouyang**  
A complex character caught between his Nanren heritage and his desire to be Mongol, having survived significant personal trauma. Ouyang's motivations are deeply fueled by vengeance and a quest for belonging.

**Lord Esen-Temur**  
A privileged Mongol warrior struggling with the scope of leadership responsibilities, often oblivious to the inner turmoils of those around him. Esen values martial prowess but lacks understanding of administration and politics.

**Lord Wang Baoxiang**  
Esen’s cousin with mixed heritage, Wang is a skillful administrator and politician who often faces prejudice. He possesses a sharp wit and is keenly observant of alliances and power dynamics.

Shelley Parker-Chan

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The Radiant Emperor

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “1345-1354”

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

She Who Became the Sun Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “1354-1355”

Part 2, Chapters 5-11

She Who Became the Sun Part 2, Chapters 5-11 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 12-17

She Who Became the Sun Part 2, Chapters 12-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “1355-1356”

Part 3, Chapters 18-23

She Who Became the Sun Part 3, Chapters 18-23 Summary & Analysis

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