"Iron Widow" is a young adult science fiction novel by Xiran Jay Zhao. Set in a futuristic world inspired by Chinese history, it follows the story of Zetian, a girl who becomes a powerful warrior pilot in a society that oppresses women. She seeks revenge against the male-dominated system that sacrifices women to fight giant alien creatures known as Hunduns. The novel explores themes of feminism, empowerment, and the struggle against patriarchal norms. As Zetian navigates her role in the military, she forms alliances with other female pilots and challenges the expectations placed upon her, ultimately aiming to change her society's oppressive dynamics.