The Poppy War – R.F. Kuang
R.F. Kuang’s The Poppy War proved to be a divisive read earlier this year, with most readers either absolutely loving it or absolutely hating it. But one thing its readers might be able to agree on is the fact that its cover is stunning. The smoky lettering, color scheme, and image of our protagonist shooting an arrow all serve to make this book some serious eye candy.
The Poppy War tells the story of war orphan Rin, who aces her empire’s military test and lands herself a place at Sinegard, one of the most elite military academies in the land of Nikan. Her classmates, most of whom are more privileged than she is, aren’t happy with her placement, and they make it known.
Their bullying is how Rin discovers that she has a rare gift that allows her to master the art of shamanism. And with the Third Poppy War approaching. Rin realizes that she might be the key to saving her country — even if she must make some terrifying sacrifices in the process.