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The Poppy War

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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R. F. Kuang

The Poppy War

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Nikan • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Poppy War by R. F. Kuang follows Fang Runin, a war orphan from Tikany, who escapes an arranged marriage by excelling in the Keju exam and earning acceptance to the prestigious Sinegard Academy. Despite facing prejudice, Rin discovers a unique shamanic power linked to the god Phoenix. As war erupts between Nikan and the Federation of Mugen, Rin's newfound abilities become crucial, forcing her into the brutal realities of both war and her shamanic destiny. The book contains depictions of self-harm, substance abuse, explicit violence, and other sensitive topics.

Dark

Gritty

Suspenseful

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.2

327,164 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

R. F. Kuang’s The Poppy War has been praised for its riveting narrative, complex characters, and rich depiction of Chinese history and mythology. Critics have highlighted the novel's unflinching portrayal of war and its brutal consequences. However, some have pointed out the graphic violence and uneven pacing as potential drawbacks. Overall, it's seen as a compelling debut.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Poppy War?

Fans of grimdark fantasy and military epics will be captivated by R. F. Kuang's The Poppy War. Ideal for readers who appreciate the complex character development and brutal realism found in George R.R. Martin's A Game of Thrones and Joe Abercrombie's The Blade Itself. Themes of war, power, and identity drive the narrative.

4.2

327,164 ratings

81%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Fang "Rin" Runin

A determined and ambitious young woman who tests into Sinegard Academy at 16, characterized by her drive for power and her experiences with the harsh realities of war.

A year younger than his classmates at Sinegard, Kitay possesses a photographic memory and an empathetic nature, and he forms a close and supportive friendship with Rin.

An initially antagonistic and privileged student at Sinegard, whose alliance with Rin evolves as they face the challenges of war together.

A fellow student at Sinegard, known for her beauty and initial prejudice against Rin, who later becomes a significant ally after sharing traumatic wartime experiences.

Teachers at Sinegard Academy; Jun is combative and prejudiced, while Irjah is a grounding force who mentors Rin in strategy and sound judgment.

Sinegard's enigmatic Lore teacher and Rin's mentor, known for his unconventional methods and wisdom regarding the dangers of shamanistic powers.

The ruler of Nikan, known for her supernatural hold over the Warlords and her pivotal role in inciting conflict.

A revered warrior of Speerly descent, Altan is Rin's commander in the Cike, driven by vengeance and plagued by the traumas of war.

A group of elite shamans and specialists serving as assassins, each member, including Rin, possesses unique abilities used for special operations and covert missions.

Book Details
Pages

544

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Nikan • Medieval Fantasy World

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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