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iixxii's review
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
A crane among wolves gives us a historical retelling of a Korean tyrant and how heroes sometimes aren’t truly heroes. The book doesn’t shy away from the atrocities and horrors of human actions while still not being explicit (so quite appropriate for a YA read).
The romance was also quite sweet with subtle but important character developments in both the FMC and ML. However, this book is more of a retelling of history rather than a romance fiction. So don’t expect any focus on romance at all and you’ll enjoy a pleasant read
The romance was also quite sweet with subtle but important character developments in both the FMC and ML. However, this book is more of a retelling of history rather than a romance fiction. So don’t expect any focus on romance at all and you’ll enjoy a pleasant read
Content Warnings
Graphic: Rape, Sexual violence, Violence, Trafficking, Kidnapping, and Murder
Moderate: Death, Misogyny, Panic attacks/disorders, and Grief
Minor: Incest, Sexism, and Suicide
boomwormbrittany's review
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- 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
5.0
A Crane Among Wolves follows Iseul who is trying to save her sister from the clutches of King Yeonsan who kidnaps women and terrorizes the country. When she finds herself embroiled in the mystery of a serial killer, she finds herself having to team up with Prince Daehyun to discover who is committing these murders and try to save her sister.
June Hur had me going in the last couple chapters of this book I swear! I was tearing up and trying not to cry while reading the last few chapters of this. I really came to love these characters so much!
June Hur has such a unique and amazing writing style. She drags you right into the story and really embroils you in not only in the characters lives but in the era she is writing in as well. I felt myself transported to 1500's Korea during the Joseon era.
You really come to love these characters even when they drive you nuts. Iseul is not a likable main character at first because she is spoiled and sheltered but you come to love and appreciate her more as you read the book. I really liked Daehyun from the first time we meet him because he clearly does not want to go along with what Yeonsan is doing but has to for his own survival.
The mystery element of this book was done so well and kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The last couple chapters had me going in the first half but at the end it resolved itself and I absolutely LOVED it.
I really loved this book and think this is a very important story to highlight. I am so happy to have this book on my shelves and I would highly recommend picking it up.
June Hur had me going in the last couple chapters of this book I swear! I was tearing up and trying not to cry while reading the last few chapters of this. I really came to love these characters so much!
June Hur has such a unique and amazing writing style. She drags you right into the story and really embroils you in not only in the characters lives but in the era she is writing in as well. I felt myself transported to 1500's Korea during the Joseon era.
You really come to love these characters even when they drive you nuts. Iseul is not a likable main character at first because she is spoiled and sheltered but you come to love and appreciate her more as you read the book. I really liked Daehyun from the first time we meet him because he clearly does not want to go along with what Yeonsan is doing but has to for his own survival.
The mystery element of this book was done so well and kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time. The last couple chapters had me going in the first half but at the end it resolved itself and I absolutely LOVED it.
I really loved this book and think this is a very important story to highlight. I am so happy to have this book on my shelves and I would highly recommend picking it up.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence and Kidnapping
Moderate: Animal death and Murder
kailanlovescats's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
Don't get me wrong, this was a good book. But I think I wasn't prepared for how heavy the book would be, despite the content warnings at the beginning. Actually, once I heard the content warnings I did get a minor sense of foreboding.... knowing some of the things in the book are historically accurate also made it feel heavier, as it was easier to put myself in their shoes! So if you struggle with what's mentioned in the warnings, proceed with caution!
ultimately there is a happy ending! You just may cry rivers to get there. Just ignore ch 42
The story is equal parts detective mystery, historical romance, and rescue mission; and has beautiful writing. It was a bit slow at times.
I do wish some words were written in korean vs English as it would've helped with the immersion. Example, having Iseul refer to her sister as Eonni instead of older sister.
The story is equal parts detective mystery, historical romance, and rescue mission; and has beautiful writing. It was a bit slow at times.
I do wish some words were written in korean vs English as it would've helped with the immersion. Example, having Iseul refer to her sister as Eonni instead of older sister.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Slavery and Violence
Moderate: Child death, Death, Rape, Sexual violence, and Blood
Minor: Suicide
nataliebootlah's review against another edition
dark
emotional
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
A historical, Korean whodunit, complete with a mysterious serial killer, a brimming coup, and some romance of course.
Iseul will do anything to stop the ruthless King Yeonsan, who has kidnapped thousands of women for his own pleasure, including Iseul’s sister. On her journey through the forbidden territory into the capital, Iseul crosses paths with Prince Daehyun, the bastard little brother of the tyrant king, who numbingly despises his brother. Together, will they be successful in overthrowing the crown?
Hur masterfully wove fiction into the true historical events of the dark, 1500s Joseon era. Slow burn romance, questionable characters at every turn, a serial killer on the loose, the fatherly-figure found in an investigator, a cold and calculated prince. I loved how the author explains what really happened in the author’s note, but I loved the storytelling even more.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Violence
Moderate: Blood, Kidnapping, Death of parent, Murder, and War
Minor: Rape and Sexual assault
filipateodoro's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
It was darker and more violent than what I had anticipated, which I liked. Basically, this was not a 5 star read because I didn't love the way descriptions were handled. In some scenes I felt a bit lost and had to go back to recap where things were taking place, or in what positon characters were in a room. I found that travel between locations got a bit awkward too, I didn't feel like the author was giving the reader a good sense of how far away/near the locales were (maybe a map would've helped?). This was probably done to keep the narrative tight and moving along, but it made it harder for me to be immersed in the story. If the writing had dedicated a bit more space to describing the settings, the story and world would have felt a lot more atmospheric and rich, and this would have benefited the mystery plot.
In any case, it was a good time and I'm probably going to be reading the author's other work. The nerd in me loved that the author included the bibliography she used for research at the end. I'll probably look at some of those in the future.
EDIT: Forgot to add that there were a lot of korean terms that I had to look up on Wikipedia, even as someone who consumes south korean media and entertainment, for example the names for different ranks/types of palace maids/servants. Would've REALLY appreciated it if a clarification on these had been accessible (Keep in mind I read this on an ereader).
In any case, it was a good time and I'm probably going to be reading the author's other work. The nerd in me loved that the author included the bibliography she used for research at the end. I'll probably look at some of those in the future.
EDIT: Forgot to add that there were a lot of korean terms that I had to look up on Wikipedia, even as someone who consumes south korean media and entertainment, for example the names for different ranks/types of palace maids/servants. Would've REALLY appreciated it if a clarification on these had been accessible (Keep in mind I read this on an ereader).
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Emotional abuse, Physical abuse, Violence, and Grief
Moderate: Sexism, Murder, and Abandonment
Minor: Rape, Sexual violence, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Torture, and Pregnancy
fullnessofjoy's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
mysterious
fast-paced
- 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
5.0
June Hur strikes again! If I can put into words how much I enjoyed this novel, it would be to describe it as a historical time-travel pill into the intrigue and danger and darkness but also the light and love and romance of a 16th century historical Korean tale. It is a heady, dizzying, wonderful feeling. Hur pitches this novel as a bit of a historical Kdrama - and if you know anything about me - that is one of my favourite genres ever! :) This novel combines beautifully the romance and drama and danger and action and loveable, emotional character moments, the soft lingering romance and exciting scenes - with the depth of historical knowledge, perspective and insight to a very difficult, painful period of Korean history. As a history lover, Hur’s attention to historical perspective and knowledge was truly admirable and made me so much more engaged with this story, knowing that these events and even some characters are drawn from real life. But Hur never trumps historical fact over character depth and the beauty of a well-told story. There were so many swoon-worthy, heart-pounding moments in this scene, I was HOOKED!
Can we also talk about the romance between those two loveable characters? Aww, I loved them so much - they were flawed, real and wonderful and I was rooting for them very much. There are some wonderful side characters too ahhh! My review is all over the place, but I just loved this novel SO SO MUCH and will encourage you to read it ASAP.
Can we also talk about the romance between those two loveable characters? Aww, I loved them so much - they were flawed, real and wonderful and I was rooting for them very much. There are some wonderful side characters too ahhh! My review is all over the place, but I just loved this novel SO SO MUCH and will encourage you to read it ASAP.
Content Warnings
Minor: Animal death, Death, Rape, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Violence, Blood, and War
spellbindingtomes's review against another edition
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Child death, Confinement, Cursing, Death, Domestic abuse, Emotional abuse, Genocide, Gore, Misogyny, Physical abuse, Rape, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Slavery, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Torture, Violence, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Kidnapping, Grief, Death of parent, Murder, Pregnancy, Abandonment, Sexual harassment, War, and Classism
shinku's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
4.0
I feel like opinions on this book will greatly differ depending on what you're looking for. If you like political intrigue, riveting tales of overthrowing tyrants and plotting rebellions, and a stronger touch of romance blossoming in perilous situation, then you'll love this. If you're more into mystery, however, it might not satisfy you entirely because the book tries to cover so many things that the mystery ends up taking the backseat until the very end.
As far as the mystery goes, it was quite predictable and would've been even easier to solve if the book spends more time on it instead of steering the plot into several different directions at once. It starts off pretty strong by mentioning the series of murders, up to the point where a certain royal guard falls victim to it. The scene where Prince Daehyun finds the body is top tier thriller experience, and I was hoping the book would maintain the bone-chilling, harrowing tone… but it doesn't. Instead, it turns to highlight the rebellion instead, and admittedly I lost focus many times because of it. It's good in the sense that it offers the suffocating air of corruption and oppression, but the fact that the investigation is so blatantly pushed aside to make room for this bothered me quite a bit.
As far as the mystery goes, it was quite predictable and would've been even easier to solve if the book spends more time on it instead of steering the plot into several different directions at once. It starts off pretty strong by mentioning the series of murders, up to the point where a certain royal guard falls victim to it. The scene where Prince Daehyun finds the body is top tier thriller experience, and I was hoping the book would maintain the bone-chilling, harrowing tone… but it doesn't. Instead, it turns to highlight the rebellion instead, and admittedly I lost focus many times because of it. It's good in the sense that it offers the suffocating air of corruption and oppression, but the fact that the investigation is so blatantly pushed aside to make room for this bothered me quite a bit.
“Because rape is about power; it is never about desire or love.”
The romance is also notably more present than June Hur's previous works. Not saying that I didn't enjoy it though, because I did. Both Iseul and Daehyun have massive character growth throughout the book. Iseul starts off as pretty insufferable while Daehyun is used to being emotionally numb. While I do feel like they could've used more build-up to bond beyond having butterflies due to close proximity, they push each other to be better. There are plenty of important messages subtly woven in, and it feels good to see it as a contrast to how King Yeonsan and his officials treat women like dirt.
“Why is it so irrationally difficult for men to simply leave women alone?!”
Overall, it was a pretty engrossing read. It's always fun to see the author's notes too, to see which parts are facts are which ones are fiction. The writing is beautiful and atmospheric, it'll definitely draw you into 1506 Joseon with the tragedies and nightmares it has to offer. Plus points for the sisterhood and especially the beauty that is chapter 42. 🫠
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Violence, and Murder
Moderate: Rape and Kidnapping
Minor: Incest
serendipity421's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Misogyny, Sexism, Slavery, Violence, Blood, Police brutality, Kidnapping, Grief, Death of parent, and Murder
Moderate: Pregnancy
Minor: Rape
darkclouds's review against another edition
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Sometimes I wonder, just how many levels of devastation one can endure or expect when faced with a harrowing tale? In this case, June Hur highlights a significant historical period that took place in Korea and she does not shy away from disclosing the little details that can be so easy to overlook because it makes you uncomfortable.
A Crane Among Wolves whilst marketed as the Young Adult historical sensation set during the 1500's of Joseon era - June Hur relentlessly executed a meticulous fictitious script that covered all the dark elements that took place during this period. This involves a high stakes coup led by Prince Daehyun, and a manhunt for a nameless murderer who threatens not just the current King Yeonsan, but also individuals with links to the palace. Whilst not on the astronomical levels of grim one can find in Rebecca F. Kuang's books, it doesn't deter from bringing the past to life and educating readers of this grisly moment in Korean history.
We desperately follow Iseul and her strive to free her sister from the clutches of a tyrant, all the while discovering what family means, what love means and overcoming her fears of allowing her emotions to consume her. The build up of the mystery, hunting a killer whilst planting the seeds of doubt in your mind as you question every character you come across - it's not often I am fooled into finding a book predictable and yet found to be at a loss of words by the end of it. June Hur's delivery is exemplary and she has carefully crafted an intense and highly articulate piece of work that keeps readers engaged and lost in hope.
Looking for a historical K-Drama coded fix? She has your back for that too. Daehyun and Iseul's painful slow burn had both caused the fissures in my heart, as well as healed them. The romance was a gentle sprinkle of light on such a dark story and it was folded in with vigilance and care. It's enough that you'll hear your heart pounding in your ears.
I've long since felt such a deep attachment to the budding characters we get to meet during Iseul's journey. There is an allocated place for each of them and they fit together like pieces of a jigsaw. Whole. Complete.
This was my first experience into June Hur's writing and it most definitely will not be my last.
A Crane Among Wolves whilst marketed as the Young Adult historical sensation set during the 1500's of Joseon era - June Hur relentlessly executed a meticulous fictitious script that covered all the dark elements that took place during this period. This involves a high stakes coup led by Prince Daehyun, and a manhunt for a nameless murderer who threatens not just the current King Yeonsan, but also individuals with links to the palace. Whilst not on the astronomical levels of grim one can find in Rebecca F. Kuang's books, it doesn't deter from bringing the past to life and educating readers of this grisly moment in Korean history.
We desperately follow Iseul and her strive to free her sister from the clutches of a tyrant, all the while discovering what family means, what love means and overcoming her fears of allowing her emotions to consume her. The build up of the mystery, hunting a killer whilst planting the seeds of doubt in your mind as you question every character you come across - it's not often I am fooled into finding a book predictable and yet found to be at a loss of words by the end of it. June Hur's delivery is exemplary and she has carefully crafted an intense and highly articulate piece of work that keeps readers engaged and lost in hope.
Looking for a historical K-Drama coded fix? She has your back for that too. Daehyun and Iseul's painful slow burn had both caused the fissures in my heart, as well as healed them. The romance was a gentle sprinkle of light on such a dark story and it was folded in with vigilance and care. It's enough that you'll hear your heart pounding in your ears.
I've long since felt such a deep attachment to the budding characters we get to meet during Iseul's journey. There is an allocated place for each of them and they fit together like pieces of a jigsaw. Whole. Complete.
This was my first experience into June Hur's writing and it most definitely will not be my last.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Animal cruelty and Kidnapping
Minor: Child death, Rape, Violence, and Blood