A review by rubbertree14
The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

adventurous dark mysterious tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

The world building was great in this story. I think, however, there is a lot that is thrown at the reader to focus on at all times, and a lot of mental work for readers. The author switches between beautiful, unique writing to cliches and cliche dialogue very quickly and often. Very slow, very dry at parts. 

---

Content Warnings

Graphic: Sexual harassment, Racism, Drug abuse, Cursing, Violence, Suicide, Religious bigotry, Death, Suicide attempt, Sexual violence, Rape, Emotional abuse, Addiction, Drug use, War, Torture, Suicidal thoughts, Sexual assault, Physical abuse, Panic attacks/disorders, Murder, Mental illness, Injury/Injury detail, Gore, Genocide, Colonisation, Child death, Body horror, Blood, and Alcoholism