R.F. Kuang | 2018-2020 | 1,872 Pages | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genres: Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Magical Realism
SUMMARY
The Poppy War
A war orphan, Rin earned her place in Nikan’s most elite military school. There, she discovers her lethal, unearthly power of shamanism—and learns that gods long thought dead are very much alive. When an inevitable conflict arises between longtime enemies the Nikara Empire and the Federation of Mugen, Rin realizes her shamanic powers may be the only way to save her people. But as she finds out more about the god that has chosen her, the vengeful Phoenix, she fears that winning the war may cost her humanity. . .
The Dragon Republic
After committing an atrocity in battle, shamanic warrior Rin is consumed with guilt, an opium addiction, and the murderous commands of the fiery Phoenix god. Channeling her anger against the Empress who betrayed Rin’s homeland, she chooses to join forces with the Empress’s enemy, the Dragon Warlord. But as Rin discovers the true natures of the Empress and the Dragon Warlord, the temptation to unleash the Phoenix’s fearsome power grows—and so does her vengeance. . .
The Burning God
After saving Nikan from foreign invaders and battling the evil Empress in a brutal civil war, Rin realizes that her homeland’s real power lies with the millions of common people who thirst for vengeance and revere her as a goddess of salvation. Vowing to defeat all who threaten the shamanic arts, Rin’s power and influence grows—but so does the Phoenix’s intoxicating voice urging her to burn the world and everything in it. . .
MY THOUGHTS
From the moment I turned the first page of "The Poppy War" by R.F. Kuang, I knew I was embarking on a literary journey unlike any other. This series, consisting of "The Poppy War," "The Dragon Republic," and "The Burning God," is a breathtaking combination of history, fantasy, and realism that leaves an unforgettable mark.
Kuang masterfully weaves a narrative that is as complex as it is captivating, drawing heavily from 20th-century Chinese history to ground her story in a painful, emotional reality. The series follows Rin, an orphan from the poor province of Rooster, who aces the empire-wide exam to attend Sinegard, the most elite military academy in Nikan. However, Rin's journey is far from a simple rags-to-riches tale. It is a grueling saga of power, war, and the cost of ambition.
What sets "The Poppy War" series apart is its unapologetic portrayal of the horrors of war and the exploration of the dark side of human nature. Kuang does not shy away from depicting the brutal realities of conflict, including genocide, drug addiction, and the consequences of unchecked power. Yet, amidst this darkness, moments of profound humanity and insight offer a glimmer of hope.
Rin, as the protagonist, is a force to be reckoned with. Her development from a determined student to a powerful shaman consumed by vengeance and the burdens of leadership is executed with subtly and depth. Her journey is filled with moral ambiguities, forcing readers to question the nature of righteousness and the recurring nature of vengeance and violence.
The world-building in this series is richly drawn, with a vividly imagined geography, history, and social structure that immerse you fully in the world she has created. Incorporating gods, shamans, and mythical creatures adds a layer of mysticism that perfectly complements the narrative's historical foundations.
"The Dragon Republic" and "The Burning God" expand upon the themes and conflicts introduced in the first book, elevating the series to new heights. The sequel and conclusion explore the complexities of leadership, the cost of peace, and the sacrifices required to achieve it. The character development is exceptional, with each character's motivations, strengths, and flaws laid bare in a compassionate and critical manner.
In conclusion, "The Poppy War" series by R.F. Kuang is a masterpiece that challenges you to journey alongside its characters and confront the darker aspects of history and human nature. With its intricate plot, complex characters, and beautifully realized world, this series is a must-read for fantasy and historical fiction fans and anyone who appreciates a story told with unflinching honesty and unparalleled skill.
CHARACTER OVERVIEW
Rin: You'll be swept up in her determination and resilience, but it's not without moments of frustration. As she faces unimaginable challenges and makes decisions that test your patience, you'll find yourself torn between admiration for her strength and exasperation at her stubbornness. Yet, it's precisely this complexity that fuels your love for her character, drawing you deeper into her story with every triumph and setback.
Altan: His descent into darkness will tug at your heartstrings, evoking both frustration and a profound sense of empathy. You'll watch helplessly as he struggles with demons from his past, torn between loyalty to his ideals and the harsh realities of war. There will be moments when you want to shake him, to scream at him to see reason, but beneath the frustration lies a deep-rooted love for a character whose struggles are relatable in the sense of big decisions that affect more than yourself.
Nezha: He is a tumultuous dance of frustration and understanding, highlighted by moments of unexpected friendship. His stubbornness and pride will test your patience, but you'll sense the vulnerability beneath the surface. This delicate balance between frustration and love makes Nezha's journey compelling, inviting you to embrace the complexity of his character with open arms even when you hate him.
Kitay: Amidst the chaos of war, Kitay's unwavering loyalty and loyal friendship are a beacon of light, but it won't be without its moments of frustration. His relentless optimism sometimes feels naive, leaving you wanting a glimpse of reality amidst the idealism. Yet, it's his unwavering support and genuine affection that ultimately win you over, forging a bond that transcends the pages of the book and fills you with a profound sense of love for his character.
WHERE TO READ / BUY
Paperback Set: $37.99
Kindle Set: $36.99
One of my favorite fantasy series ever. I was super interested in learning about the opium wars/Chinese conflict with Japan in school so this was a really informative read for me (even though it’s fantasy). I think especially since it’s fantasy it brings more humanity to the distant way that wars are taught, especially in American schools. Kuang does a great job showing the horrors of war, especially with her depiction of the Rape of Nanjing. I think in media wars are glorified a lot of the time so I do appreciate how realistic she makes it