Book Review: Sister Snake by Amanda Lee Koe

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

As an avid reader with a love for dark, captivating stories, Amanda Lee Koe’s new book Sister Snake instantly drew me in. This book seamlessly combines elements of horror, thriller, and literary fiction, with a fresh, modern twist on the classic film Green Snake (1993), which it’s based on.  It’s a unique, five-star read that definitely feels like it has the potential to become one of my favorite books of the year. Watch this review in video form here.

The Premise

Inspired by the legend of the White Snake and the 1993 film Green Snake, this novel tells the story of two snake sisters who transform into human form. A thousand years after their transformation, they are living in contemporary New York and Singapore. Despite being polar opposites, Emerald (the Green Snake) and Sue (the White Snake) share a deep bond, rooted in their shared secret: they are not entirely human. As the story unfolds, we see how their contrasting personalities create tension and drama that drive the plot forward.

What Makes Sister Snake Special

This novel is a delightful blend of genres. If you’re a fan of dark, witty writing and layered storytelling, Sister Snake is for you. The narrative alternates between the present day and centuries of fascinating flashbacks, offering glimpses of the sisters’ escapades through history. From foiled romances to near-death experiences (including a narrow escape from being burned at the stake), the book keeps you hooked with its humor and drama.

The chapter titles alone give you a taste of the book’s wit and tone. A couple of my favorites:

• “His Erections Are as Lackluster as His Poems”
• “A Self-Possessed Woman Can Turn Your World to Dust”

Characters

Emerald (The Green Snake)

Emerald is the embodiment of chaos and charm. She’s a sexy, carefree bisexual who refuses to conform and rocks a green buzz cut. She uses her wits, beauty and bad ass attitude to navigate the world. But as modern times take their toll, she finds herself struggling to get by, relying on sugar daddies to make ends meet.

Sue (The White Snake)

Sue, on the other hand, is reserved and responsible. Oh and did I mention super rich thanks to the stock market? She’s married to a conservative politician in Singapore and suppresses her snake-like tendencies, unlike Emerald, who embraces hers fully. The tension between the sisters adds depth to their relationship, making it one of the most compelling aspects of the book.

The Plot (No Spoilers!)

The story kicks off when Emerald’s chaotic antics in Central Park draw unwanted attention, prompting Sue to fly to New York to intervene. They haven’t seen each other in several decades, but Sue convinces Emerald to return to Singapore, where their conflicting personalities inevitably lead to explosive confrontations. I won’t spoil the ending for you, but wow, it’s exciting!

Themes and Setting

Amanda Lee Koe’s Singaporean background shines through in the vivid depiction of modern Singapore. The book explores societal issues, including the struggles of queer communities and the pressures to conform, while contrasting the ultra-rich with marginalized groups. This cultural richness adds depth to the story and made me want to visit Singapore to experience the locations described in the book.

Favorite Passages

Here are a few quotes that stayed with me long after finishing the book:

“I love you enough to swallow an ocean, to shoot down the sun. I love you in any and every form, be it corporeal or even immaterial. A snake can shed its skin 100 times, but it will always remain a snake. To be sisters with you in one lifetime is not enough.”

“She took her revenge by stealing his chi, which tasted of damp cows.”

The descriptions of people’s chi—and what it tastes like—are some of the most inventive and entertaining parts of the book. While a small amount of feeding is harmless, draining too much chi can be fatal. This supernatural element adds a layer of tension and suspense to the story, reminiscent of Twilight-esque vampire lore but with a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

Sister Snake is a witty, imaginative, and thought-provoking novel that’s as entertaining as it is insightful. Amanda Lee Koe has crafted a story that blends myth, modernity, and humor in a way that feels fresh and original. Whether you’re drawn to complex characters, rich cultural settings, or sharp, witty prose, this book has something for you.

If you’ve read Sister Snake or are planning to add it to your TBR, I’d love to hear your thoughts! Leave a comment below and let’s chat about this fantastic read.

Thanks for reading, and stay tuned for more book reviews—I’ve been exploring the romantasy genre lately, so there’s plenty more to come. Happy reading!