A review by gi_reads30
A Crane Among Wolves by June Hur

dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

“All I desire...is to live a peaceful and honorable life, and above all, to be remembered well by you once I’m gone. Then in the next life, perhaps, you will not pass me by.”

Thanks to NetGallery and A Feiwel and Friends Book (MacMillan Imprint) for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. 

Rating: 4.5 ! What a wonderful, heartbreaking yet beautiful story. 

Review/Brief description: 

The story takes place in 1506, Joseon, where hope and freedom were non-existent because of the horrible tyrant King Yeonsan. Despite the reality of most of the kingdom,  Iseul has lived a sheltered, privileged life. That is until she finds herself alone, and seeking for ways to bring back something that she loves. Prince Daehyun has lived his whole life in the terrifying shadow of his despicable half-brother, the king, and his desire for revenge against his own blood will put him in a dangerous place. When Iseul's and Daehyun's fates collide, they reluctantly join forces to launch the riskiest task they have ever encountered. 


It goes without saying that I really enjoyed this story. Although heartbreaking at times, because of the reality behind the fiction (June does a wonderful job with historical fictions, this book is no exception), the story is compelling, and so beautifully written. Iseul, Daehyun, Yul, Wonsik, all powerful characters that have endured so much, yet are just so strong and determined. I loved Iseul even in moments where she was a little rash with her decisions. She was just 17 so it is understandable. Daehyun had me swooning, and was also such a strong character. After his horrible past by the hands of his brother, his determination was admirable. Other side characters like Yul and Wonsik were great additions to the story as well. 

As I said I love the story, I loved the writing. The atmosphere made me feel like I was actually watching a K-Drama. I only had 2 problems with the book. There was a subplot, a murder mystery that at times (because of how many characters were in play) confused me a bit, and I had to go back some sentences to fully grasp what was happening.
The other thing is that I wished I would've seen a bit more of the "great event.", but I understand why it was not heavily presented. 

Other than that another wonderful book by June Hur. I would recommend it to everyone that loves historical fiction, slow burns (this is YA, so keep that in mind), and K Dramas. 
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