I have on occasional been called a sinophile. I actually prefer Japan but I do have a love for China. That's what really pulled me to this book. The trilby cover is OK but a little off putting, the title a touch canned, but please DO NOT let that deter you.
I know what I expected from this book with talk of superheros and magic and China in the blurb, but it is so reductive to what I got. All that is in there and so much more that in essence this blurb is similar to calling the universe a 'bit large'. There is a breath and richness to this story that continues to keep you guessing. It's not straight forward - those perhaps the over all plot arc is - there are layers that could have worked against each other, they could have turned into several different stories crammed into the same book, but they don't. In part it's due to Helms continued wit and grounded protagonist, but mostly it's the assured use of her knowledge, imagination and the finesse with which she writes.
My biggest fear whenever approaching a book that deals with the intricacies of Chinese culture is that it will be over done. In a rush to make everything right and authentic they try too hard. The Dragons of Heaven could stand as a bench mark in how to do it right. There is only enough information that you're not confused, enough description to paint your imagination. It's really wonderfully done while still being cotemporary and fun.
Cons: At first I was worried it felt too slick across the first few chapters but it's a stiltedness that fades as the book grows in confidence. In fact I'd say with the sheer amount going on it's amazing that slickness extended to the end. Other than that perhaps the protagonist's reasoning for adopting the cover story isn't explained with any satisfaction, and there are so many names at some points in the story I had to flick back to make sure I was following who was who.
They are tiny problems with what is a great debut novel that's made me hunger for more not just of the characters but the world(s) Helms has created.
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