The Poppy War is a gripping epic fantasy debut inspired by 20th-century Chinese history. When Rin, a war orphan, aces the Empire’s elite Keju exam, she shocks everyone—including herself. Admitted to Sinegard, the top military academy in Nikan, Rin faces classism and cruelty as a dark-skinned girl from the provinces. But she also discovers a dangerous gift: a rare talent for shamanism. Under the guidance of a strange mentor and fueled by hallucinogens, she learns to channel the powers of ancient gods. As tensions rise with the Federation of Mugen, Rin finds herself at the heart of a coming war.
About The Poppy War Series
Beginning with The Poppy War, this grimdark fantasy trilogy draws from Chinese history, particularly the Sino-Japanese War and the Opium Wars. It follows Fang Runin (Rin), a war orphan who rises through a military academy and discovers her deadly connection to ancient gods. As war erupts, Rin must choose between vengeance, survival, and humanity. The trilogy—concluding with The Dragon Republic and The Burning God—examines addiction, trauma, genocide, and power. With brutal realism and mythological elements, it’s a powerful, unflinching exploration of war’s costs and a woman becoming a weapon.
About R. F. Kuang
A Chinese-American author known for her historical fantasy novels, particularly The Poppy War trilogy, which draws inspiration from Chinese history and mythology. Kuang's work is characterized by its dark and intense themes, exploration of war and its consequences, and complex characters grappling with moral ambiguities. Her powerful storytelling and unflinching portrayal of violence have garnered critical acclaim.
Other Books by R. F. Kuang
Yellowface
by R. F. Kuang
After her friend dies in a freak accident, struggling writer June Hayward steals her unpublished manuscript—and her identity. As June rides a wave of fame under false pretenses, guilt, appropriation, and race explode in this razor-sharp satire of the publishing industry. Yellowface is a provocative, page-turning novel that skewers cultural gatekeeping, tokenism, and ambition, blending suspense with biting social commentary.
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