Siren Queen by Nghi Vo

Siren Queen

Author: Nghi Vo

Genre: Magical Realism, Historical Fantasy

Format: Physical purchase

Publish Date: May 2022

Read: April 2024

Favorite Quote: I would never be adorable and bubbling over with praise for myself and others. Instead, I was still and cold, and I had to hope that was enough.

Story Synopsis: Growing up in her parents’ laundry business, Luli Wei dreamed of Hollywood stardom. When a chance encounter led her to a bit part in a movie, she decided to follow her dream of becoming a star. For a Chinese-American woman, Luli had no illusions about what she would face and she demanded to be in roles that suited her: no fainting flowers, no maids. So, she became a monster.

Along the way, Luli realizes the real monsters are the studio heads, using ancient magic and rituals to keep their power and to ensure fame is given to those who serve them, not usurp them. But Luli has her own power and magic to rise in the industry.

Why does this book beguile? Siren Queen was recommended to me by one of the owners of Blackbird Books & Coffee as a “magical realism” book, which is a favorite genre of mine. Siren Queen does not disappoint! The magical realism is blended so seamlessly, you forget it’s not a historical fiction novel. Siren Queen embraces what queer folks went through in the early days of Hollywood and Nghi Vo does an excellent job of sharing queer love stories and using magic as a metaphor for authenticity, belonging, and community.

Rating: 5/5

Link*: Siren Queen by Nghi Vo

If you’re interested in this, read*: The Women Could Fly by Megan Giddings