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

adventurous challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

One of, if not, the best fantasy book I’ve read before. I found the detail and depth of the world building interesting. I loved the interconnectedness of the different religions and martial arts. I liked the intertwining of politics. The complexity of the characters made me feel conflicted about all of them. The development and reveal of Altan’s character pained me. I paused constantly throughout reading to connect minor plot details. I didn’t realise until the end how much had changed from being a student to becoming consumed by divine power as it was written so gradually. Altan and Rin’s emotional and spiritual relationship intrigued me and I hope I find out more in the sequel. I wish I could see it all through Altan’s perspective too. The horror of Chapter 21, Altan’s experience in the research lab, his death, and Rin walking over the skeletons on Speer made me tear up. I can’t wait to read the sequel and see how Rin’s character develops regarding her inner conflict with the Phoenix and how she’s seemingly become what destroyed Altan. The story ended with a lot left to still explore. 
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