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

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

3.75

I'm still trying to formulate all of my thoughts after finishing this last week. I really struggled with the pacing of this book and the lack of what I think would have been fluid movement from each major beat to the next one. I also wish there had been better character development. I struggled to make an emotional connection with most of the characters (and not because they make morally-questionable decisions, that is actually part of what makes them the most interesting).
Though, I was quite devastated by Altan's sacrifice.
 

I plan on continuing this trilogy, but unlike some other series, I did not automatically reach for the next book.
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