Another queer book during Ramadan—oops! Sorry! 😂 But beyond that, I found myself deeply invested in this story filled with Chinese folklore, sisterhood, and political intrigue set across different timelines and locations. The concept of immortal beings struggling with human limitations—especially addiction, identity, and survival—adds emotional depth, making it more than just a fantasy story.
Set in 1615, during the Ming Dynasty, two snakes—one green, one white—manifest in an underwater cave, securing a lilac lotus a hundred years before they can finally transition into human form. Though not bound by blood, they emerge into the world as sisters, utterly devoted to each other.
Bai Suzhen, the White Snake, embraces human life, eventually settling in Singapore. She marries Paul, a Minister for Education, and finds herself unexpectedly pregnant—an event that throws her carefully constructed life into chaos. Meanwhile, her estranged sister, Xiaoqing (now Emerald), struggles in New York, desperate for fast cash to survive as a "normal" human. But in a tragic twist, she accidentally gets shot.
Over the centuries, both sisters have fought against their primal instincts, resisting their need for human qi to sustain their immortality. But secrets have a way of unraveling, and theirs is no exception. Soon, Singapore itself is on high alert.
I also love how the author brought in humor and imagination (the idea of vipers attacking Parliament is such a fun mental image!). The book seems to balance mythology, dark themes, and humor, which makes it feel fresh. A solid 4.5 ⭐!