The Tiger's Watch (Ashes of Gold #1) Review

**Thank you to Harmony Ink Press and Netgalley for sending me an ARC in return for an honest review. 2.5 to 3 stars!!! When I had first read the synopsis for this book, I was pretty excited. The concept of the novel really hooked me. However, I'm quite disappointed because the story hasn't really lived up to my expectations. All in all, this book was a rather average read for me with a few key highlights. Firstly, I'd like to applaud the author for creating a genderfluid protagonist. I liked how the sexual conflict with regards to Tashi's identity was portrayed and how the minor characters easily came to their defense. It was also refreshing to encounter a plot where characters are so accepting of diversity. Unfortunately, that's where it ended for me. In terms of decisions made by the character, I was utterly confused. This was especially in the case of Xian for whom Tashi has feelings for. I was really befuddled with how the MC dealt with someone who is very cold and has hidden motives. As a result, we see the MC making some rather grave mistakes. Decisions which clearly would not have happened had the author made the MC was more fierce and level headed but I didn't get that. Secondly, I enjoyed the idea of characters connected with animals. I thought the magic system in place was very interesting. But there wasn't much information given as to why it existed in the first place. There is no context of history. This makes for very poor plot development. This coupled with a lack of worldbuilding made the story lack richness. For example, the author has set the story in a world ravaged by war, but as a reader, we have no clue as to the reason behind it. This was very disappointing. The book does contain vivid descriptions of how the characters use the animals but it felt very disconnected. Thirdly, the story has some romance thrown it. It's more of a love-triangle. I did like the relationship between Pharo and Tashi. I found the slow burn romance to be engaging and very realistic. On the other hand, Xian as a love interest was cringe-worthy. I was not getting any feels there. It was not at all relatable and I didn't understand why it was introduced in the first place. I guess it was for convenience and plot progression. Overall, as I said the book is very average. I was expecting so much more. I was so excited to read a story based on Ancient China or that's the feeling I got from the blurb. I don't think I would be reading the sequel as there are a lot of gaps in the plot. The characters also need to be flushed out more. The book had the potential to be great, but it flatlined for me.

#youngadult #lgbtq #diversity #fantasy #romance #JuliaEmber