The fourth novel in a series exploring the “what if’s” of Disney films, Reflection by Elizabeth Lim depicts what would have happened if Captain Shang was severely wounded by Shan-Yu.
The novel follows Mulan, who–blaming herself for his injuries–promises to save Shang, claiming that China will not win this war without him. In order to protect him, she must travel through Diyu, even if it means they could both remain in the Underworld if she fails.
Lim brings back some of the most memorable characters from the movie like Mushu and Cri-Kee, which will appeal to many fans of Mulan. Despite the fact that Mushu, Cri-Kee and many of the characters who played a major role in the movie are very minor characters in Reflection, Lim gives them plenty of page time so readers who don’t remember much from the movie can refresh themselves. Lim’s take of the movie is full of nonstop action, and she does a phenomenal job bringing the original characters’ and the movie’s voices and tone to life in the novel.
There is never a dull moment in Reflection from the beginning of Mulan’s journey into Diyu to the very last page, readers may find themselves flipping pages, yearning to find out the next thing Lim could put Mulan and her new companions through.