A review by blossomclouds
The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang

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

3.75

As with all fiction books, most of this is entirely subjective: I absolutely adored The Poppy War. I liked this book. The main point that leads me to an entire star less than the book before it, is the character narrative. Though there is excellent character work, and a few subtle differences, it disappointed me somewhat that it was basically the same lesson learned at the end of it. The constant retreading of the same ground got too much for me.  Characters didn't catch onto things for - what I felt - too long a time.

On the other hand, the highlights of this book for me were the dynamic between Rin and Kitay, the incredible antagonist, the magic system, the writing style and the many different kinds of platonic and group dynamics! The female characters in particular are a joy to behold. 

There just seems to be an incredible awareness by the author of all the little intricacies of human nature. I loved those small interactions and details!

The socioeconomic narrative portrayed within is no doubt incredibly important.

It's an absolutely humbling display of how to portray a war and military strategy. Fantastic, in my view!

Overall, it was a good read that I honestly enjoyed!!
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