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cortanasreadingnook's review
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Graphic: Physical abuse, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Murder, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Rape
mrsclappreads's review
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
Moderate: Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, and Physical abuse
Minor: Child abuse, Confinement, Rape, Sexual assault, Suicide, and Blood
r1vana's review
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This is my second book from the author, and like the Red Palace this has also became a beautiful gem.
As an avid Korean drama watcher and have a special liking for historical, this book has satisfied that love.
This book is filled with crime, political war, evil king, a strong FMC, a charming, protective and righteous MMC.
RTC
Graphic: Death, Rape, Blood, Grief, Death of parent, and Injury/Injury detail
gi_reads30's review
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
“All I desire...is to live a peaceful and honorable life, and above all, to be remembered well by you once I’m gone. Then in the next life, perhaps, you will not pass me by.”
Thanks to NetGallery and A Feiwel and Friends Book (MacMillan Imprint) for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 4.5 ! What a wonderful, heartbreaking yet beautiful story.
Review/Brief description:
The story takes place in 1506, Joseon, where hope and freedom were non-existent because of the horrible tyrant King Yeonsan. Despite the reality of most of the kingdom, Iseul has lived a sheltered, privileged life. That is until she finds herself alone, and seeking for ways to bring back something that she loves. Prince Daehyun has lived his whole life in the terrifying shadow of his despicable half-brother, the king, and his desire for revenge against his own blood will put him in a dangerous place. When Iseul's and Daehyun's fates collide, they reluctantly join forces to launch the riskiest task they have ever encountered.
It goes without saying that I really enjoyed this story. Although heartbreaking at times, because of the reality behind the fiction (June does a wonderful job with historical fictions, this book is no exception), the story is compelling, and so beautifully written. Iseul, Daehyun, Yul, Wonsik, all powerful characters that have endured so much, yet are just so strong and determined. I loved Iseul even in moments where she was a little rash with her decisions. She was just 17 so it is understandable. Daehyun had me swooning, and was also such a strong character. After his horrible past by the hands of his brother, his determination was admirable. Other side characters like Yul and Wonsik were great additions to the story as well.
As I said I love the story, I loved the writing. The atmosphere made me feel like I was actually watching a K-Drama. I only had 2 problems with the book. There was a subplot, a murder mystery that at times (because of how many characters were in play) confused me a bit, and I had to go back some sentences to fully grasp what was happening.
Other than that another wonderful book by June Hur. I would recommend it to everyone that loves historical fiction, slow burns (this is YA, so keep that in mind), and K Dramas.
Minor: Death, Miscarriage, Rape, Sexual assault, Slavery, Suicide, Death of parent, Pregnancy, and War
chiaramoodreads's review
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Moderate: Animal death, Death, Gore, Violence, and Blood
Minor: Rape and Suicide
poppy_warphan's review
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Graphic: Murder
Moderate: Animal death, Death, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Sexism, Violence, Blood, Trafficking, Kidnapping, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Child abuse, Child death, Incest, Panic attacks/disorders, Rape, Suicide, Grief, and Death of parent