A review by atsy6
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

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

4.0

I went into this book blind, I knew it was fantasy, and that was about it. It was good, it was moving, it was darker than I anticipated. The first half was typical YA, orphaned child makes way to a school, middle was the schooling and ordeals then the last was war and it was dark. I felt like I was reading 3 different books. I'm ok with the switches, but it was surprising. Some of the horrors will stick with me and I read horror / thrillers so I'm no stranger to violence. I'm pretty sure a lot is based on history and actual atrocities committed, so that just makes it worse.

I didn't really love any of the characters, I'm hoping that will change. There was a lot to dislike about everyone tbh, including Rin our FMC. She shows her age and immaturity a lot. I'm all for a villain or anti-hero but they need a hook or anchor to their actions. Adoration, a semi-connection and puppy love isn't enough. I will continue the series because dang, I'm invested. But there were a few things that stuck out that made the book less than 5 stars. 
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