sacredgayometry 's review for:

The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

4.0

challenging dark emotional mysterious sad medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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Beautifully written and culturally expansive- the world building and magic system are fascinating. There are some very dark and upsetting moments that feel difficult to read, but the overall result is a great read with incredibly complex characters. 

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Content Warnings

Graphic: Child abuse, Domestic abuse, Drug abuse, Drug use, Genocide, Gore, Infertility, Miscarriage, Rape, Torture, Violence, Xenophobia, Murder, Pregnancy, Fire/Fire injury, War

Moderate: Ableism, Adult/minor relationship, Animal death, Confinement, Cursing, Hate crime, Suicidal thoughts, Grief, Medical trauma, Abortion, Schizophrenia/Psychosis , Colonisation, Injury/Injury detail, Classism

Minor: Bullying, Eating disorder, Sexism, Slavery, Forced institutionalization, Trafficking, Death of parent, Alcohol

If you have trauma related especially to heroin or opioids, they are often mentioned and abused and this may not be the book for you. There is also heavy allegory to the conflicts in China and Japan surrounding opium and colonization and the wars that have occurred especially during feudal periods. I found it reminiscent of the Vietnam war and World War II. War crimes are a heavy theme. Very well written but can be a very difficult read.