Scan barcode
A review by thyprincess
The Dragon Republic by R.F. Kuang
adventurous
dark
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
“So do not shirk from war, child. Do not flinch from suffering. When you hear screaming, run toward it.”
While The Poppy War took its time with the world-building and painting of the different forces driving The Nikara Empire and its long-seated strife, The Dragon Republic delves deeper into these characters. The book delivers more discussions on war strategies, political plays, and the sacrifices people are willing to take for the sake of power and their idea of stability. It is heart-pounding and gripping, and one will be thankful for the sparse moments of rest in between all the action.
Character's change, for better or worse, as the aftermath of the Third Poppy War takes its toll on our young soldiers. As our protagonist, Rin, faces psychological battles, those around her, too, grapple with the new roles they have taken up for this civil war. There is bitterness, grief, and rage - so much rage - that fuels them to take actions that cannot even be morally debated on.
This sequel shines with its delivery, and its status as a 5-star read was only cemented by its insane last few chapters. I am excited and terrified to read the conclusion to this trilogy, which will, regardless, bring me to my knees in tears again.
While The Poppy War took its time with the world-building and painting of the different forces driving The Nikara Empire and its long-seated strife, The Dragon Republic delves deeper into these characters. The book delivers more discussions on war strategies, political plays, and the sacrifices people are willing to take for the sake of power and their idea of stability. It is heart-pounding and gripping, and one will be thankful for the sparse moments of rest in between all the action.
Character's change, for better or worse, as the aftermath of the Third Poppy War takes its toll on our young soldiers. As our protagonist, Rin, faces psychological battles, those around her, too, grapple with the new roles they have taken up for this civil war. There is bitterness, grief, and rage - so much rage - that fuels them to take actions that cannot even be morally debated on.
This sequel shines with its delivery, and its status as a 5-star read was only cemented by its insane last few chapters. I am excited and terrified to read the conclusion to this trilogy, which will, regardless, bring me to my knees in tears again.
Content Warnings
Graphic: War
Moderate: Death, Rape, Blood, and Colonisation