Reviews
“War doesn't determine who's right. War determines who remains.”I had thought that I was prepared for this book, but I was ultimately wrong. When I went into this book I thought it was going to be a war themed romantasy where the world setting would be completely different, and that the MC would be hauled off to a war camp to help fight a futile war that would forever be known as The Poppy War. Oh how wrong I was about this book. From the very start, I was completely blindsided about everything, especially when it came to the writing style and the main character. Though, strangely, I pushed through it because I had heard so many things about it from when it first came out. But from chapter to chapter, I was completely surprised with the events that were happening and that nothing about this book is romance. It is purely about war, which made it interesting and different, because the main focus wasn’t about the world building or the romance, it was simply about the fantasy and the MC. Though I will admit, I didn’t really like how so many years passed, because I felt like everything was happening so quickly and that there wasn’t really any focus on anything in particular. But come the point when the war breaks out, everything does slow down and things star to make sense as we see more war and learn more about our MC. What I LOVED about this book, however, was that the MC was so completely different to other MC’s I have read. She’s not the hero that the book needs or wants, she’s just an MC that simply is and that is something I didn’t realise i would like. I also like how Huang interpreted all of the plot twists, interloping struggles such as addiction, a need to please people…it shows that people can struggle and not just briskly make their way through the stories events. 4.5/5
An onion of a book. So thoughtfully layered, and made me cry like a squealing piglet
Perusing one’s interests to gain a better life brings on discipline and ingenuity. Rin grows into the person she is meant to be through hardship, struggle, and perseverance. Not knowing where she comes from or where she’s supposed to go, being guided by the gods is no simple task; especially when almost the entire nation has stopped believing. War is inevitable, and the footing Rin gains in the midst of it is a story of the ages. Impacted by historical events leading up to her moment of truth, triumph, and downfall.
this was amazing omg. i see why everyone is obsessed with it now. anyway still sobbing over altan. i think i always will be 🫠
ADORE THIS BOOK! I really love R F Kaung's Books. Really dark though so please check triggers first.
I’ve had this book on my TBR list for a while and I’m glad I finally gave in and started it! It blew my mind and I am already starting book two because I need to know how the story is going to continue!
This book is a rollercoaster ride, and it is well worth it. We meet Rin, and follow her journey from orphan, to student, to shaman, to warrior, and everywhere in between. Her story sparks questions of morals and how far is too far, but its hard not to be captured by her persistence and determination. R. F. Kuang has woven an hypnotizing epic fantasy that was impossible to put down and leaves us ready for more.