A review by crin_d1nk
The Last Tiger by Julia Riew, Brad Riew

adventurous hopeful informative 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? No

3.5

Thank you NetGalley and Kokila for providing the DRC for review. All opinions are my own. 

The Last Tiger by Julia and Brad Riew is a historical fiction novel with a twist of fantasy, reimagining the love story of the authors’ grandparents. Set in the Tiger Colonies, currently under the oppressive rule of the Dragon Kingdom, the story alternates between the perspectives of Seung and Eunji—two adolescents from vastly different backgrounds. Seung, born into poverty, strives to improve his family’s fate, while Eunji, privileged but trapped in her own gilded cage, yearns for freedom. Their paths cross at a Tiger Slaying Ceremony, where a pact and an undeniable spark of attraction set them on a path to liberate themselves and potentially their homeland.

The narrative is infused with a palpable sense of love and respect for its characters and setting. Both Seung and Eunji are fully realized characters with distinct personalities and independent story arcs, making their dual perspectives two parallel narratives that occasionally intersect. This approach strengthens the story’s emotional depth and builds a stronger connection with the reader. The environmental storytelling stands out, as the world-building elements are seamlessly woven into the plot, and the fantasy elements never overwhelm the narrative. 

However, while the storytelling is tight with engaging pacing, it also leaves some gaps. There were moments when I wished for more exploration, particularly of Eunji’s family dynamics and the impact of her actions on them. Similarly, the resistance movement, which feels like a crucial part of the backdrop, could have been developed further. This is a story aimed at a younger audience, which explains its sharp focus on Seung and Eunji’s journey. Still, it feels like there’s untapped potential here. The book could easily have been expanded into a trilogy, given the complexity of the characters and the world they inhabit. I found myself wanting more—more depth, more exploration, more time with these characters and their world.