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tiggy__smalls 's review for:
The God and the Gumiho
by Sophie Kim
The God and the Gumiho by Sophie Kim starts gently, easing you into its world of gods, gumiho, and tangled fates. The early chapters lay the groundwork, but it’s once the stakes sharpen and our leads are thrown together that the story truly comes alive.
Hani and Seokga’s dynamic is the heart of the book. Their reluctant partnership is full of playful irritation, verbal sparring, and an undercurrent of something warmer they’re both reluctant to name. I loved how their banter sits alongside moments of quiet care, slowly softening the edges between them.
The adventure unfolds with a balance of danger, humour, and lore. Kim’s reinterpretation of Korean mythology feels fresh yet respectful, adding texture without weighing down the pace. Little side characters, meddlesome and well meaning, keep nudging the plot, and the relationship, forward in unexpected ways.
The emotional depth builds quietly. There are moments of care and vulnerability that sneak up on you, making the later chapters land all the harder. By the time the red thread of fate appears, the book has wrapped itself around you in a way that’s hard to let go of.
The final chapters bring the story full circle, returning to the imagery where it all began. The cherry blossoms feel like more than just a visual 🌸 They hint at something enduring, a journey paused but not ended, with Seokga ready to begin the search all over again. Quietly adventurous and full of heart, The God and the Gumiho is a slow blooming tale that rewards patience, blending myth, romance, and a touch of mischief into an unforgettable and bittersweet journey.
Hani and Seokga’s dynamic is the heart of the book. Their reluctant partnership is full of playful irritation, verbal sparring, and an undercurrent of something warmer they’re both reluctant to name. I loved how their banter sits alongside moments of quiet care, slowly softening the edges between them.
The adventure unfolds with a balance of danger, humour, and lore. Kim’s reinterpretation of Korean mythology feels fresh yet respectful, adding texture without weighing down the pace. Little side characters, meddlesome and well meaning, keep nudging the plot, and the relationship, forward in unexpected ways.
The emotional depth builds quietly. There are moments of care and vulnerability that sneak up on you, making the later chapters land all the harder. By the time the red thread of fate appears, the book has wrapped itself around you in a way that’s hard to let go of.
The final chapters bring the story full circle, returning to the imagery where it all began. The cherry blossoms feel like more than just a visual 🌸 They hint at something enduring, a journey paused but not ended, with Seokga ready to begin the search all over again. Quietly adventurous and full of heart, The God and the Gumiho is a slow blooming tale that rewards patience, blending myth, romance, and a touch of mischief into an unforgettable and bittersweet journey.