In the four book trilogy, The Dandelion Dynasty, we embark with Ken Liu to the Islands of Dara - a group of islands rich in culture, tradition, philosophy, history and politics. We learn about the evolution of Dara, from an assembly of states involved in a conflict for power to a complicated empire full of intricate political plots. Throughout this evolution Liu learns us about the art of logograms, the Dara sages of old and their philosophies, the constant evolving governing machine that is empire and much more.

Blending sweeping descriptions of technological, silk-punk machinations that spark our imaginations with the creative minds of the colourful and diverse characters is what sets this book apart from others. From a third person omniscient perspective we get to experience the characters in all their splendour as they plot against each other, debate philosophy and morals and doubt their own actions. Even though you, as a reader, never truly know what the characters are thinking, they never felt flat or elusive in their behaviour. Liu manages to make every character relatable or understandable. Their viewpoints and moral standards are touched upon in just the right way to understand their action and thoughts. Many times I’ve scowled at certain characters and ever more times I’ve rooted for others.

The politics in the books are complex and very well implemented with the history and cultures of Dara. The rulers strive for a certain moral standard and it is interesting to see how each emperor and other political figures gives their own interpretation to this standard. It makes the dialog vibrant and the plots cunning and intricate. Throughout the books the right way to govern the realm changes and it is very realistic that the characters have trouble adapting to these changes.

And last but not least, the third book gave the most epic and bittersweet cooking contest I’ve ever experienced. Three epic rounds that stimulate all the senses plus mind-pleasure and endless creativity from the characters to overcome their cheating opponent. Two souls from wildly different cultures meet, both harbouring a secret identity, who see each other without saying it for who they really are. Just for this cooking contest alone I would recommend this to everyone.