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A review by hickorynut
The Fox Maidens by Robin Ha
dark
mysterious
sad
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
4.25
A complex, twisting Korean fairy tale that focuses on Kai, the daughter to a respected warrior. He teaches her martial arts alongside his sons, and ultimately she ends up being offered the position to take over training and management. Her right to the position is challenged by one of her brothers, an easy task for her, but she loses the fight when her first period seeps through her clothing. Kai then learns of her mother's past and what she had to do to bring her to the world, and ends up trapped in a cursed cycle. She becomes a fox spirit, and only eating a human liver while the human is still alive will allow her to continue living in her human body.
The combination of mythology to the realities of young adulthood for a girl raised in a patriarchy was very well done. The story of Kai's parents and conception continues to influence her fate as the story continues. I found myself a tad lost at times during action scenes due to the chaotic quick nature of the artwork. But overall it was an engaging read with beautiful art and a complex dark story.
The combination of mythology to the realities of young adulthood for a girl raised in a patriarchy was very well done. The story of Kai's parents and conception continues to influence her fate as the story continues. I found myself a tad lost at times during action scenes due to the chaotic quick nature of the artwork. But overall it was an engaging read with beautiful art and a complex dark story.