A review by jkhawes
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

challenging dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

I could rate this anywhere from 3 to 5 and it would be true. It's a brilliant world, and the book is emotionally and intellectually challenging, all good things. Honestly, if the series ended here, it would be a really interesting interrogation of how trauma and colonialism can lead to extraordinary violence. My big concern isn't with this book, it's with the fact that this is somehow book one of three. I don't know if I can ever forgive the characters for book one. Hard thing to face down when considering reading two more. So my reasoning for 5 stars? It's a great book. My reasoning for 3? It's a great book that may have ruined the series for me. I just don't know yet. 
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